Coops

Coops is the recording name of Jordan Cooper, a UK rapper from North London. He begins making music with friends in his late teens, then develops a more personal approach to writing by focusing on himself and the world around him. He describes his work as social commentary as well as self-documentation, using his own experiences and perspective as material.

Career

Coops wins Choice FM’s Breakthrough Competition at 23, which leads to his first live performance at London’s O2 Arena, where he supports Nas. He cites Jay Z, A Tribe Called Quest and Eminem among his major influences, and says he prefers to be inspired by established artists rather than current trends.

He signs to Deadicated Music and releases his first mixtape, What Do You See, in 2011. This is followed by Lost Soul in 2014, produced by long-time collaborator Talos. The mixtape combines 1990s hip hop boom bap with smoother, more mellow production. Its singles “Chillin” and “Blessings” receive radio attention in the UK. “Chillin” is named BBC Radio 1’s Introducing Track of the Week and is supported by Charlie Sloth, Shortee Blitz and Ras Kwame, while outlets including Ear Milk, SBTV, Alt Sounds and Vibe also back his work.

Live work and style

Coops’ headline show at the O2 Academy Islington sells out, which he says surprises him. He presents himself as a straightforward rapper who avoids the common clichés of wealth and status, and instead aims to stay grounded and honest in his lyrics.

He later works on the album God Complex, taking a different approach by recording in the studio without writing everything down first. He describes the record as freer, more melodic and chorus-driven, with religious themes and metaphors running through it. The album explores duality, self-righteousness, doubt and questions of integrity, and he frames it as a statement of self-belief and determination.