CoCo (Courtney) Jones is the latest in a long line of uber talented teen performers to come out of the house of Disney. The 15-year-old star, who is currently on tour with pop sensations Mindless Behavior and Austin Mahone, is scheduled to make solo appearances at the Indiana State Fair.
Her Extended Play (EP), also known as a mini-album, “Made Of” features a refreshing blend of catchy tunes and power-packed vocals.
The Recorder had a chat with CoCo about her dreams, her favorite things, and everything in between.
Recorder: I love your sound! It’s fun yet has a very mature vibe to it. What inspires you musically?
CoCo Jones: I am inspired a lot by my own life. The people who listen to my music are around my own age and they can relate to it. “Made Of” is the title track to my EP and it’s a great example, because I’ve learned in this business to show people what I’m made of and not be afraid.
Taylor Swift loves Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Pop-Tarts. What are your favorite road snacks?
Well, this tour I’ve been eating a lot of popcorn. I’ve had popcorn almost everyday! So, I’d say that’s my favorite tour snack along with hot chocolate and tea with a little sugar in it, country sweet tea.
Your UBU-Stop the Bullying tour focused a lot on anti-bullying and self-esteem issues among youth. Do you feel that it’s important for celebrities to use their status to speak out on these issues?
I think it’s very important for people in the public eye to speak out on issues. There are people that I looked up to that had success and had lived a lot and I listened. They had important advice to share.
As a young woman in the music business, how do you stay focused and motivated?
I’m very self-driven. Being home-schooled I have to keep my own schedule as far as tests and learning and that helps me stay driven. It doesn’t take a lot of pushing for me because I already have a goal in mind that I want to achieve.
What advice would you have for other young people pursuing their dreams?
I would say to never let what people say stop you. A lot of times people can be jealous and if you let that affect you it’ll impact how you think. If you’re very determined then nothing should stop you.
What are your dreams as far as music and acting are concerned?
I have a lot of dreams … a world tour like Beyoncé and a remake of the movie “Charlie’s Angels,” I could play one of the Angels! Also a triple duet (giggles) with Jennifer Hudson and Beyoncé with Will.I.Am and Missy Elliot on the track. They change everyday, that’s what I have right now.
What’s next for you?
I’ve been finishing up the album and have one song left. It should be out this fall. Also my character Kelsey is returning to Good Luck Charlie!
Check out CoCo Jones on the Marsh Free Stage at the State Fairgrounds on Aug. 3 at noon and 2 p.m. Concert is free with $10 fair admission; ages 5 and younger free.
Visit CoCo Jones online at therealcocojones.com.
