We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Cole Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robert, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I grew up in Southern California, where music was a constant part of my life. My three older brothers are all musicians, and some of my earliest memories are of us playing Guitar Hero together and watching American Idol as a family. I eventually joined a band with two of my brothers, and those years taught me how to collaborate, perform, and connect with people through music. In 2016, I moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University, which meant leaving the band behind. Even though that was a big change, the experiences I had growing up in such a musical family continue to inspire me and fuel my passion for making music a lifelong career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is my music, and what sets me apart is the wide range of songs I cover, spanning different styles and genres. I’m most excited right now about recording new music for everyone to hear. Practice, passion, and asking questions have gotten me to where I am today. It hasn’t always been easy, but my dedication and love for what I do have helped me overcome the challenges. Along the way, I’ve learned that nothing is handed out and you have to put in the work to get noticed. I want the world to know that I’m a dedicated musician who just wants to use my music to brighten people’s days and inspire them to chase their own dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want to make sure they got a mix of great food, beautiful scenery, and some of my favorite spots. We’d definitely kick things off with dinner at Etta, one of my go-to places that never disappoints. One of the highlights would be a day trip to Sedona, where we could take in the incredible red rock views, explore some local shops, and enjoy the small-town charm. While we’re out and about, I’d make sure to take them to my favorite record shop (shout-out ALT Books and Records!) to dig through vinyl and talk music for hours.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my wife, Baylee, my family, and all of my supporters and OGs on TikTok who have been there from the start. Your encouragement on my videos, live streams, and especially my crazy goal of playing Scandinavia with the Jonas Brothers means the world to me. I wouldn’t be chasing these dreams without you.

Website: https://linktr.ee/robertcolejr__4

Instagram: @robertcolejr__4

Other: Tiktok: @robertcolejr__4

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.