Celebrate Christmas with lead singer Coko Clemons, of SWV. SWV, acronym for
Sisters With Voices. In the 90’s this group won several awards such as;
American Music Awards, Kids Choice Awards and BET “Best of Video Soul.” The
group also went on a world tour in 1996, covering USA, Europe, South Africa,
Asia and New Zealand. SWV consisted of Cheryl “Coko” Clemons, Leanne “Lelee”
Lyons and Tamara “Taj” Johnson. Well, Center Stage Magazine was delighted
to hear about Coko’s latest Christmas Album coming out on (Music Doll
Entertainment/Light Records).
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I had a chance to listen to Coko’s album called “A Coko Christmas.” I
felt like celebrating early, this is a fantastic uplifting album. You would
definitely give your ears a treat. Her unique voice has not changed one bit.
The beautiful sounds of Coko’s voice are heard integrated perfectly with musical
instruments through out her album. On her new album you will discover cuts with
SWV-inked Christmas tunes such as, “Oh Holy Night,” “This Christmas,” and “The
Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire). Coko’s Christmas album
has something for everyone. The album starts off with a jazzy feel with the
single called “We Thank You,” featuring Deon Kipping.
We also get a surprise with American Idol’s finalist, George Huff, who belts out
notes on “Give Love On Christmas Day.” Coko also has a wonderful surprise on a
special all in the family track “Silent Night” where Coko is joined by her
mother gospel singer, Lady Tibba and her youngest son, Sir Jalen. If you listen
carefully you will here a distinctive sound coming from her son’s voice that is
a mirror of Coko. “Holy” demonstrates Coko’s ability to utilize her voice to
set the mood with this majestic tune. This album proves to be one of the most
enjoyable Christmas albums yet. Coko is an artist that shares her vocal talents
with us and now sharing thoughts with us about her career.
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DM: How long have
you been with your record label?
COKO: I’ve enjoyed being with the record company for over three years.
DM: Did you always
want to be a singer?
COKO: I have a passion for singing, but I always thought that I would
become a successful hair dresser.
DM: Who discovered
you?
COKO: Well, one day Lelee, who is a singer in the group, called me and
told me to come down to the studio a lady and son producer team were
looking for a group. Soon after, the group took on a life of its own.
Everything happened so fast.
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DM:
Coko, you always
hear people say, you must have a thick skin in the entertainment
business. Why do you think this statement is true?
COKO: Well, it can be rough, the media can be hard on people. People
will talk about you, do mean things, so you need a thick skin to handle
it, so you can just brush things off.
DM:
Coko, you always
hear people say, you must have a thick skin in the entertainment
business. Why do you think this statement is true?
COKO:
Well, it can be rough, the media can be hard on people. People
will talk about you, do mean things, so you need a thick skin to handle
it, so you can just brush things off.
DM:
Will you ever
tour with SWV again?
COKO:
I don’t want to say never, maybe down the line. Right now I’m
trying to focus on what I’m doing now.
DM: What particular part of
the world did you really enjoy performing for?
COKO: Japan, really loves American music. You go out on stage and give them
your all and they appreciate you so much. Their English is not that good, but
they can sing your songs word for word. I love going to Japan.
DM: Fans want to know what
has Coko been doing, can you tell us?
COKO: Well, right now I’m working on recording my next record release in 09.
Also I still perform and I’m getting ready to sing at the, “Divas Event,” in Los
Angeles.
DM: What words of
wisdom can you give to our readers interested in becoming an entertainer?
COKO: Stay focused and make sure your business is straight.
DM: Did you have your
paper work in place when you started out with SWV.
COKO: No, but you live and learn. I’ve learned from my mistakes and now
I know what to do and what not to do.
Thank you Coko, for giving
Center Stage Magazine a glimpse of what is in the future for you. Coko’s
Album, out in stores near you.
For more information regarding Coko please visit:
www.myspace.com/cokoclemons
COKO with SWV-TRIVA
ALBUMS
1992- Debut album, It’s About Time
1992- The Remixes (double platinum)
1996- New Beginning
1996- A Special Christmas
1997- Release Some Tension
The group sang chorus on TLC’s “Waterfalls”
1999- Group disbanded and pursued solo projects.
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