Cole Decker, a gifted singer-songwriter and guitarist originally from South Mississippi, has lived in Bozeman, MT, for the past five years. Renowned for his introspective and unapologetically honest songwriting that draws inspiration for his life experiences, Cole delivers a captivating mix of authentic traditional country and southern rock both as a solo artist and alongside his talented band. His musical style resonates with fans, evoking comparisons to stars like Chris Stapleton, Whiskey Myers, and 49 Winchester. With years of songwriting, guitar playing, and singing under his belt, Cole is a true maestro, who has solidified his position as a rising talent in the music industry.

 

Q: How long have you lived in Bozeman, and what do you appreciate most about it?
 A: I've been in Bozeman for five years. I live here with my wife, Joelle, and our ‘staffy boy’ Remington Alexander Montgomery III (Remi, for short), an English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and boon companion. What I enjoy most about this area is the vibrant culture, strong sense of community, stunning scenery, and the energy generated from Bozeman’s rapid growth.

 

Q: Can you describe your artistic journey and when you found your passion for music?
 A: Music has always been a part of my life, but I didn’t initially envision it as a career. My parents introduced me to the piano at a young age, which sparked my love for music, but for a while, sports took precedence. It wasn't until after high school that I picked up a guitar and began to explore my musical talents more seriously. I vividly remember hearing Chris Stapleton's rendition of "Tennessee Whiskey" for the first time. It struck me as something entirely different from what I was hearing on country radio, and it was then I realized that music could be more than just a hobby; it could be a form of self-expression that transcends genres. That realization ignited my passion for creating music and sharing my journey with others, and I've been on that path ever since.

 

Q: What themes or subjects influence your music?
 A: My life experiences and the lives of those around me serve as my primary inspiration. I often write about my own struggles and triumphs, drawing from firsthand experiences. However, I also enjoy exploring the perspectives of others, sometimes even crafting stories about fictional characters. My new album, “Starting Fires on A Dare,” features all original tracks, including songs like “Fifty-fifty” and “Nothing but a Plan.” This album represents a deeply personal collection of songs that delve into a range of themes—from heartbreak and encounters with homelessness to battling addictions, mental health struggles, dating apps, and fond memories of childhood. I hope that listeners can find their own stories within my music.

 

Q: What is a piece of music you've created that holds special significance for you?
 A: Recently, I wrote a song dedicated to my dad, which I’ve titled, Life of Despair, who tragically committed suicide when I was just 12 years old. For many years, I struggled to write a song that captured my emotions about him in a way that felt right. I felt the weight of needing to encapsulate every emotion from each stage of grief. Eventually, I realized that writing multiple songs about him was okay because my feelings were complex and varied. This understanding lifted the pressure of creating the “perfect song” and allowed me to craft something meaningful to me. It’s a song I genuinely enjoy playing and is a tribute to his memory.

 

Q: Are there any artists or movements that inspire your work?
 A: Countless artists have influenced my musical journey. Two albums that have profoundly impacted me are Chris Stapleton's Traveller and Jason Isbell's Southeastern. I admire their music's authenticity and how they tackle real-life themes. Other artists like Sturgill Simpson, Brent Cobb, Zac Brown Band, and Tyler Childers have significantly shaped my taste and style over the years. I would describe my music as a fusion of traditional country and southern rock, reflecting the genres I love and the stories I want to tell.

 

Q: What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how have you addressed them?
 A: Transitioning to a full-time artist was initially daunting due to the lack of a consistent income. I had to secure as many gigs as possible, hoping to earn enough to cover my bills each month. It’s a demanding process where you invest all day for a few hours of performance at night. While I still maintain this approach somewhat, I've learned how to manage my schedule more effectively over time. Embracing the uncertainty of finances and believing in my talent has been crucial. Although challenging, I focus on the positives and am grateful for the success I’ve achieved so far.

 

Q: Have you engaged with the local community through music?
 A: I’ve performed live for about six years, playing at local venues like The Tune Up Bar, The Westerner, Stacey’s, Old Saloon, and Pine Creek. I've also had the opportunity to open for artists like Frank Foster, Parker McCollum, and Red Shahan. I perform both solo and with my band throughout the region.

Q: What impact do you hope your music has on listeners?
 A: I hope my work is relatable, inspirational, and energizing to listeners, similar to how some of my favorite artists have influenced me. I want people to feel connected and understand they are not alone in their experiences

 

To explore more of Cole’s music, visit his catalog at hyperfollow.com/allreleases and coledeckermusic.com/shop.

 

For wedding booking inquiries or to check out his upcoming shows, reach out at: