Joanna Cotten, a name that resonates with soulful vocals and a unique "funkabilly" style, has captivated audiences for years. While many recognize her as Eric Church's dynamic duet partner from the 2019 Double Down Tour, Cotten's journey in the music industry stretches far beyond that role. This article explores her musical roots, her struggles and triumphs, and her exciting plans for the future.
From Memphis Roots to Nashville Dreams
Cotten's musical foundation is deeply rooted in her Memphis upbringing. "Gospel, country, rhythm and blues -- it ain't nothin' but a country girl showing off her roots," she explains. Growing up in the South, she was immersed in gospel music, which, combined with Memphis' soulful atmosphere, profoundly influenced her sound. Horns on country radio were a common occurrence during her childhood, with artists like T. Graham Brown blending soul into the country music scene. This unique blend shaped Cotten's distinctive style, a fusion she affectionately calls "funkabilly."
The Warner Bros. Chapter: A Roadblock on the Path
In the mid-2000s, Cotten signed with Warner Bros. as a solo artist, brimming with talent and a distinctive sound. However, the country music landscape at the time wasn't receptive to her style. Despite recording over 20 songs, she struggled to find a place for her music on the airwaves. In 2007, she ultimately parted ways with the label, without ever releasing an album. This setback was disheartening for Cotten, who longed to connect with audiences and witness their response to her music firsthand. "I never got a shot to get to the people -- to just see how they responded -- which was probably the saddest part, for me," Cotten remembers. "Because I knew that if I personally could take my music to the people, I felt I would get a strong response."
The Eric Church Era: A Rejuvenated Spotlight
Years later, Cotten's belief in her music's appeal was vindicated. Joining Eric Church on stage, she garnered a dedicated fanbase who were captivated by her performances. As a backup singer, she shone brightly, earning her own spotlight and proving her ability to connect with audiences. The rise of Chris Stapleton, who, like Cotten, blended soul and country, further solidified her conviction that her "funkabilly" style had a place in contemporary music. "He kinda paved the way for a lot of people, I think. But my time was even before that," she explains. "[At the time], I was at Warner, and I think they just didn't know what to do."
A Solo Career on the Horizon
With a rejuvenated fanbase and renewed confidence, Cotten is now looking towards her solo career. She has been collecting new songs and assembling a team to explore the possibilities, and is excited about the next chapter in her musical journey. While her hectic touring schedule with Eric Church initially put a pause on songwriting, she is eager to get back into the creative process and share her new material with the world. "I have taken a pause from songwriting for a while, just being on the road and adjusting to that life. It sort of drained me of my creativity, because I would just be tired when I got home," she relates. "I'm hoping during this break [from touring this summer] I can really get back in there. But I have, here and there, gotten some things people haven't heard."
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Reflecting on the Past, Embracing the Future
Cotten is proud of the songs she recorded during her time as a solo recording artist, and believes some of them still hold up today. "I think there are some amazing songs that will stand the time on that record. I think people would still respond to some of that music," she says. She acknowledges the challenge of creating new music that lives up to the quality of her earlier work, but remains open to the creative process and excited about what the future holds. "There's only one "Funkabilly,"" Cotten says. "There are a few other songs, a song called "Keep My Faith," a song called "Loving This Day" -- I just think that they'll stand the test of time, and I don't know if I'll ever write another one of those."
Staying True to Her Roots
Despite the changes and experiences she has undergone, Cotten remains true to her Memphis roots. "I've evolved as an artist, just because I'm older now and I've seen a little bit more of the world, but I think I'm fairly true to my roots -- which is Memphis," she explains. She is committed to staying true to herself and her unique style as she embarks on this new phase of her career.
A Personal Journey: Resilience and Strength
Beyond her musical endeavors, Cotten has also faced personal challenges with remarkable strength and resilience. Her experience with a BRCA1 mutation led her to undergo a preventative double mastectomy and multiple reconstructive surgeries. She has openly shared her journey, offering support and inspiration to other women facing similar decisions.
Cotten's journey has inspired her to create a "Companion Book" for BRCA+ women who choose the surgical path to prevention. Titled "BRCA BRCA 1-9," the book is filled with educational material, motivational content, organizational tips, and activities to help readers maintain a positive mindset. Cotten's goal is to help as many individuals as possible through her book and her continued advocacy.
Finding Light in the Darkest Days
Cotten has found solace and inspiration in the music and community surrounding Eric Church. She credits Church, his band, and his fans with providing a solid light through her darkest days. A surprise opportunity to see Eric Church perform at his new Nashville bar, Chief's, with Joanna Cotten, proved to be a much-needed escape and a reminder of the healing power of music.
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