Back in 2005 I was saying goodbye to high school and hello to reality. A reality filled with concert lines and rough draft crimes. For Steven Cooley, reality was releasing an album, promoting the hell out of it and then taking a musical break after it was all said and done to take care of his family. All breaks come to an end and for fans of white boys who can throw down the R&B ways, Steven Cooley is back and ready to give music another go. He’s honest, heartfelt and here to take the time to invite readers into his written mind.

Kendra Rae: As someone who has never seen as far as Vegas, how would you describe Indianapolis to the rest of the world?

Steven Cooley: Indy is a sports town that has a lot to offer families, home owners, and people who are interested in living a conservative lifestyle. When it comes to music, art, or culture we fail in many ways. It is a double edge sword. Everything you could fall in love with are the same things that make people move to your neck of the woods.

Kendra: Your last CD, Lost My Faith, came out in 2005…What have you been up to since then and now?

Steven: I worked hard to promote Lost my Faith to the best of my ability. I struggled to receive the regional or national attention that album deserved. About a year and a half after its release I pretty much abandoned music and have worked full time at a print shop to support my family. I have done well, but I was kinda brought back to life by a guy named Rod Kim. His encouragement inspired me to get back on the horse and start plugging away again. So I have been writing and working on some new tracks. I will send you an exclusive demo.

Kendra: What’s the story behind the title track of that record, “Lost My Faith?

Steven: “Lost My Faith” was written at the Wheeler Mission. I struggled with drugs and alcohol until I was homeless. I am glad to say that this song was written eight years ago. I have fully recovered from that hopelessness. Still workin’ on the faith part…

Kendra: You also had another track that caught my attention, “Where Do I Belong?” as someone who’s attracted to the angst in music; I’d like to know if you’ve found a place you belong yet?

Steven: Yes, it is very easy to forget about what is in front of you in life. The search tends to end where you stand.

Kendra: All around I can only describe you as a sort of Blue Eyed Soul man. Who were some of your influences as a kid?

Steven: Boys II Men. A Christian Singer named Michael W. Smith. Choir director named Kenny Franklin. Everyone is shy about saying it, but I wanted to sing like a black guy. I wasn’t alone, obviously (Justin Timberlake, Gavin Degraw, Jon B, etc. etc.)

Kendra: Lost My Faith came out when I graduated high school and it made my mind wander to ask, if you could go back to high school for one day, what would you do over?

Steven: I am pretty sure I didn’t have the capacity to change anything that happened. I was pretty rough around the edges and I was hard to confidence to do anything. All reflections of my life revolve around the relationships that I didn’t have or did have. I just ran into a guy I went to high school with today and it was amazing seeing him. I haven’t seen him in 12 years. That is tragic. It is hard to maintain relationships. Today I try to take advantage of all those opportunities. Treat people with respect and be a friend.

Kendra: Will your new album have a different sound than the last record?

Steven: I don’t know. I will have a couple of really earnest, honest, beautiful songs. They will be in Pop format; you will hopefully hear my voice. A soul will be involved.

Kendra: Staying in the present, American Idol is up and out right now. Have you ever or would you ever try out?

Steven: No, it’s music porn

Kendra: Lastly, what’s up for the rest of your 2011?

Steven: I am working towards putting out a new EP. Expect 3-5 songs from me, some acoustic, and some full production. I want to get back to it. I appreciate everyone’s support. I am looking forward to putting out some music this year.