I met Coko Galore as a fashion blogger when she was contributing to TorontoStreetFashion.com.  In addition to being a fashion lover and writer, Coko is a singer and lyricist with a bright, bubbly and honest style just like her fashion sense. Have a listen – check out her single, “Those Girls”.

She asked me to help design her album art for her big debut (January 2010) and commissioned a fashion figure too – I adore repeat clients – and she is also a proud owner of my Dr. Martens earning her a VIP pass to my heart forever.  I asked her a few questions about music and style.

You’re launching your debut album. What can a new listener expect to hear?

Listeners can definitely expect a mix of sweet, funky, electronic, smart-pop! It’s just fun music for your ears with words for you to think about!

You write all of your own lyrics – what comes first, the lyrics or the song? What makes a good lyric?

The idea and theme for a song always comes first, so I would say the lyrics. This album’s lyrical content is based on what I’ve seen and/or experienced. I love writing about the truth so I’m going to say good lyrics are based on honesty. If it’s how you see it and/or feel it, it’s true and it’s good!

What fashion items define your sense of style? Do you have any favourite fashion designers?

My staples are the purse, the dress and the jacket (because I’m always cold:P). For me, these items can be be relaxed and fun, yet serious and elegant. I love that fashion has extremes and therefore can reflect my mood. It can be very simple, clean and elegant, and yet be complicated, extravagant and outrageous. My definite favourites are Marc Jacob, Michael Kors, Betsey Johnson, and Vivienne Westwood.

Who are your mentors or heroes? How have they contributed to your development as an artist?

The most important thing for me is to stay motivated and work hard towards achieving my goals in art through truth while staying grounded. I’m definitely very inspired by popular media figures that have done the same. In terms of style and art, I’m more influenced by Alanis Morissette, Faye Wong and Bjork, because I identify with the way they really explore themselves through their work. For personality, I’m inspired by Audrey Hepburn and Nelson Mandela, just because their actions have shown me that I do not need to take anything for granted nor be snotty in order to achieve success. With all this being said, my main mentor and hero is my mother, not to be cliche, but she has always allowed me to be who I am without judgement and given me the opportunity to achieve my goals.

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