The music industry’s beloved Icon Cheryl Cooley’s unparalleled talent and innovative sound have forever altered the landscape of funk, R&B, and pop music. Through her role as a guitarist, vocalist, composer, arranger, and performer, she shattered norms, empowered fans, and paved the way for future generations. Her infectious beats, powerful lyrics, and unmatched stage presence have captivated audiences worldwide.
Cheryl is the heart and soul of KLYMAXX. An original member and guitarist of KLYMAXX, the first all-female Funk/R&B/Pop band, rising in the mid-eighties and maintaining the magnetic power of the unruly genre that defies labels.
Cheryl Cooley will always remain an icon in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire. Her contributions have not only influenced the music industry but have also empowered individuals to embrace their own unique talents and break free from societal constraints. Her fearless approach to music has opened doors for artists to explore new sounds and push boundaries.
As we reflect on Cheryl Cooley’s journey, it is evident that her impact extends far beyond her time in the limelight. Her music will forever be a testament to the power of creativity, passion, and perseverance. Cheryl Cooley’s unprecedented sound will continue to resonate with generations to come, reminding us of the transformative power of music and the enduring legacy of an extraordinary artist.
What do you have planned for the next six months?
Cheryl: Performing live concerts as much as I possibly can, recording new music and having fun doing it.
What would you consider your biggest business failure?
Cheryl: Believing that everyone around me wants the same high level of success. Some people really do have “the fear of success” and can sabotage themselves and others just to stay in a low level comfort zone. Another thing I’ve learned was about being too trusting of people’s intentions, being very apprehensive about protecting my brand and my image, not being as vocal about the truth to protect those who create a false narrative to make themselves look better, and being confident in knowing my worth and value when negotiating and dealing with promoters, other musicians, DJs, family members and humans… the list goes on and on.
What would attract listeners to your story?
Cheryl: I’ve had high ‘ups’ and very low ‘downs’, but the survival of it all is all worth it, no matter anyone else’s opinion of what they think it should look like. It’s a life story of managing and overcoming obstacles that can become triumphs overtime. Some of my greatest successes came in many unconventional ways. There is no playbook in life, so make life best you can. And laugh! Laugh at life, laugh at yourself, laugh to make life not so heavy. If I can overcome receiving death threats for one of the biggest lies in this century, not become addicted to drugs or alcohol, and have a good sense of still loving on people and getting up on each one of these stages with my head held high; I know I am winning and blessed. Its like that meme, when the lady says people will try to “belift you, talk about you..” she was not lying, as you have gotta keep going. There were dark days when I wanted to give up, but then I realized if I did that then they would be successful in defeating me. I also had to learn that most of the people that have hated on me did so because they were intimidated or threatened by my gift, or the real truth was that they were in love with me. As a woman in the music industry, you will come across all types of people. The best thing you can do is to remain steadfast in your faith with GOD, learn to love yourself, and give grace as often as you can. This is the story of a woman who has been lied on, hated on, praised, and loved, yet I am Unstoppable. The music that I was blessed to make is timeless and it means something. This is powerful and I am immensely grateful for it.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Cheryl: Being the musical director and responsible for getting Klymaxx to the connection for a record deal. Having wrote the music for Klymaxx’s first record release. Having gold/platinum records with Klymaxx. Wrote music arrangements for my high school band for the football games season As a learning youth musician, being a part of the City of Compton’s community Communicative Artists Jazz Band, both as a guitarist and a junior conductor. My first professional paid gig as a kid was performing opening act for comedian, Redd Foxx. Having a Music College Degree in Commercial Music. Being able to read, write, score and arrange music. Being first chair (guitar) for 70’s artist, Thelma Houston, when she travels with a band. Klymaxx being awarded the first annual Women Songwriters Hall of Fame award in Washington, DC in 2021. In the Klymaxx song, “Wild Girls”, writer/producers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, specifically wanted me to play the wild guitar solo at the vamp end of the song. Because of their confidence in my guitar acuity and abilities, it catapulted my own confidence in my performance ability. It furthermore, changed the way I play even today and I am forever grateful to them for that.
Name 3 current artists that you enjoy listening to.
Cheryl: Bruno Mars — Leave the Door Open, I even did a little dance with my friends to this song, Janelle Monáe — I love her confidence and how she has evolved, and Charis Reese — that is my best friend and protector, she’s bringing live music back in this generation, my favorite song is Allergic. There are other artists that I am impressed with but these are the one’s that come to my end without hesitation. But, I have been blessed to play with Thelma Houston, Stevie Wonder, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and others.
More on Cheryl Cooley
Through her artistry, Cooley empowered not only herself but also her audience. Her passion was contagious, inspiring others to embrace their own creativity and express themselves fearlessly. The impact of her contributions to KLYMAXX’s music cannot be overstated, as they continue to be celebrated and admired by fans and musicians alike.
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Website: https://klymaxx.com/
