Singer and songwriter Corinne Cook gets past life’s ups and downs with her latest single “One Box of Tissues,” and then is on to her next goal in life. “One Box of Tissues” is an anthem for many people who experience some of the worst lows, and Cook’s single encourages those who do that it’s okay to cry, but don’t spend too long crying, or life might just pass you by.
“One Box of Tissues” is pulled from her latest album, Yes I Can, and has previously been awarded Nashville’s Industry Music Award winner for her single “I Don’t,” from her previous album, Dressed Up for Goodbye. Her success and penmanship for relatable songs are evident with her peer awards, and musicianship. Directed by Nina Baldridge, “One Box Of Tissues” is about bouncing back after a bad break-up, and features some of Nashville’s finest and legendary musicians. These include guitarist Scott Neubert (Emmylou Harris, Larry Gatlin), drummer William Ellis (Montgomery Gentry, Martina McBride), and bassist Dow Tomlin (Wynonna Judd, Sugarland).
You sing about what many women can relate to, and what can take us many years to overcome. How does writing and singing about these elements help you heal?
It’s more about sharing my thoughts or experiences. Everyone needs someone to talk to, so writing and singing about relationships, loss and heartbreak is like having a “girls night out” with my listeners and discussing topics most women can relate to.
On the other hand, you also sing about women who achieve greatness in the midst of obstacles. Have you had some familiar inspiration along the way?
I’ve had many obstacles in my life, so much of my inspiration comes from overcoming my own hurdles. I also have amazing friends and family that have done great things in life even when the odds were stacked against them. I don’t have to look very far to find inspiration.
You work with some of the most renowned musicians in Nashville. How did you get connected with them, and what is your collaborative process like?
I have an amazing producer, co-writer and friend, Denny Martin. He’s been in the music scene in Nashville for many years and has top notch musicians play on my songs. Most of the collaboration occurs before the recording session, where we determine the best arrangement, tempo and style. But sometimes the musicians bring their own unique ideas and we end up make changes on the fly. I think it’s important to be open to the creative process.
Your latest single “One Box of Tissues,” is a strong anthem that I and many women (and men) can relate to. I love that you don’t give in and wallow in your heartbreak; instead, you live it and then you pick yourself up and move on. Is that reflective of your own experiences with love and loss?
Absolutely!! Life is too short to waste time wallowing. It’s OK to be sad sometimes, but life isn’t going to wait for you to catch up.
The music video for “One Box of Tissues” was directed by Nina Baldridge, and the video is serious, yet comical. Was that your idea or Baldridge’s? Can you relay what working with her was like for you?
The song itself is a mixture of seriousness and comedy, so it only made sense for the video to reflect the same. Nina and I had such a great time working together on the video. I think we collaborated well and we each brought fun, unique ideas to the table. Nina is a true professional and I’ll be working with her again for my next video.
Fun Questions
Who was your first concert, and who has been your favorite, so far?
My first concert was Megadeath & Lita Ford. My favorite so far has been Rod Stewart & Stevie Nicks.
What was your first album on cassette, CD and/or vinyl?
I remember having a 45 vinyl of Corrina Corrina by Ray Perterson. I must have played that record 100 times.. because, well, it’s kind of my name. 🙂 I also think I had every Judds cassette they released. I loved listening to their harmonies and singing along.
Which five artists and/or albums would you not want to live without?
The Judds, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Crystal Gayle. I wish I could list a hundred more…
Do you have a favorite instrument, and if so, are there any that you play?
I don’t really have a favorite instrument… in some songs it’s guitar, while others it might be harmonica or piano. I can play the ukulele, guitar and piano a little. (smiles)
What’s your guilty music and/or entertainment pleasure?
90’s pop music.. it takes me back to some fun times!! (smiles)
