terms & conditions by cooper mae (Interview 2026)

Edition Fifty-Nine – Week Fifty-Nine; Unit 2:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto

Introduction

Some artists write songs that entertain, while others write songs that feel like conversations you’ve been waiting to have. Washington, D.C.-based pop artist Cooper Mae does both with remarkable ease. Armed with razor-sharp wit, irresistible hooks, and refreshingly honest storytelling, she has built a sound that transforms everyday overthinking, dating disasters, and life’s beautifully awkward moments into irresistibly catchy pop anthems. Rather than chasing trends, Cooper Mae embraces authenticity. Her music is playful without sacrificing emotional depth, proving that vulnerability and humor can comfortably exist in the same chorus. Whether she’s turning holiday heartbreak into comedy or unpacking modern relationships with clever lyricism, every release feels like another chapter from an artist who isn’t afraid to laugh, reflect, and invite listeners along for the ride.

As Cooper Mae continues carving out her own space in contemporary pop, we caught up with her to discuss songwriting, creative inspiration, and what comes next.

Short Review

Cooper Mae’s music is refreshingly self-aware, effortlessly blending polished pop production with lyrics that are equal parts sarcastic, heartfelt, and relatable. Her songwriting captures the realities of modern dating, self-discovery, and emotional resilience through clever storytelling that never feels forced.

What makes Cooper Mae stand out is her ability to find humor in vulnerability. Every song feels like an honest diary entry wrapped in memorable melodies and infectious choruses. It’s pop music with personality—smart, entertaining, and emotionally genuine—and it’s easy to see why listeners continue connecting with her growing catalog.

Q&A

What inspired you to begin making music, and who were some of your earliest influences?

“I have been writing music since I was in high school, but never doing anything with it or publishing any of it. It was only this past year or two that I was truly inspired to finally start publishing some of it and it’s been so fun.
My earliest influences would definitely have to be Avril Lavigne and Ashlee Simpson. I can remember being absolutely obsessed with those two as a kid. Now-a-days I lean more towards Sabrina Carpetner-esque humor mixed into my songs with lo-fi vibes.”

What usually comes first during your creative process—the melody, the lyrics, or an idea?

“Typically it’s an idea. In fact, most of my recent songs have come completely out of brain dumps that I’ve had when journaling that I’ve just put a more poetic spin on and turned into songs. The lyrics come next, and then the melody completes the process. Often times I find myself already singing a melody as I re-read the lyrics/sometimes even WHILE writing the lyrics.”

How has your songwriting evolved since your earliest releases?

“I think I’m starting to get maybe a little edgier and bold with the message I’m trying to get across. But also, my production skills are slowly but surely improving which I’m most excited about. I have a looooooong way to go though.”

How do you know when a song is finished?

“This is a good one. I think I never truly have felt that a song is perfectly finished. There are always things that I’ll hear later on that I wish I would have changed or fixed. At a certain point, I often just send what I have to friends and ask them for feedback. If I were to wait until I felt completely ready, I’ve never finish anything.”

Where can we hear more, and why should we?

“You can hear more on all major streaming platforms! I focus mostly on Spotify, but you can hear me pretty much anywhere. If you want to support ME, then definitely give me a follow on Bandcamp.

I think you SHOULD because, I have a lot of growing to do in terms of this whole process, and I think you’ll really enjoy watching the progression of that, and getting to know me better through my work. (Also I’m pretty cool, I think).”