David Shawn Cook Perspective on In the Spirit

I'm not really a fan of the new music industry. Not that the old way was all that if you know what I mean. In this new era, it's good that almost anyon can easily make music and get it played on all the streaming services and so forth. What I disagree with is the injustice I feel is built into the system. Face it, independent artists make streaming services rich while the artists don't even make a penney on the dollar. I also strongly believe it should be illegal for streaming services to hoard the artists fan information from them and not share it. That's just wrong and I don't see any harm in them doing so. What are they afraid of? Would we tell people to stop streaming the songs? Of course not! It would just allow us to communicate with our fans and build relationships with them. I actually think the streams would go up if they did this. Anyway, I'm getting off on a whole other sbject so I'll stop here. 

I want people to feel inspired and motivated to draw closer to God. We all go through seasons and I would like to think my music has helped somebody through a rough time or changing a mood by giving hope. I'm happy with whatever it does as long as it also glorifies God. 

A this point in time, I would have to say "State of Grace" from my first album. It's kind of a testimony and very close to my heart. You could say it's like an anthem to me.

If you like classic rock with a little new wave from that period thrown in and you also like Christian music, then you should give me a shot. I believe you will like my music. It may take a few listens but that's a good thing. Think of it like food. Consume it slowly and discover the spices and seasonings contained within it and most importantly the message. I believe it will grow on you over time and when you find yourself humming one of my tunes, I got you. Enjoy, and keep on listening. I appreciate every listener and love to get to know my fans personally if possible.

It's evolving or maturing I guess you might say.

My influences are definitely 70's and 80's rock, pop, and new wave. My personal tastes growing up was Bruce Springstein, Blue Oyster Cult, Elvis Costello, Joe Jackson, Graham Parker, and John Hiatt to name a few. I don't really have any Christian influences in music. I simply write what the Lord puts on my heart and the Spirit inspires me to write. Musically though, the influences of my past are definitely still there. The main thing is that you like it. People, I mean. My biggest goal and hope is to just make some kind of impact for the Kingdom.

Well, that would be in junior high. Seriously though when after graduating high school, me and the band pasked up and moved to Boston. 

I was told from the time I was an infant whenever music played I was found headbanging on the couch. Maybe I invented it, who knows!

Hmm, my background is nothing out of the ordinary. I am obviously a Christian but I wasn't always a committed believer and follower of Jesus. In fact, I am a prodigal. Before writing and playing Christian music, I was in various rock bands in Boston, MA in the 80's. One of the more prominent of those bands was called "The Puppet Rulers". We were quite successful for a while. I am also a recovering addict living the excesses of the music business as I'm sure most people have read about. Thank God that part of my life is over and in the ashes of my past. After years of struggle, I am proud to say I was delivered from all of that by my Lord and Savior. I know it sounds cliche these days, but it's true, and I'm not ashamed of it. It takes what it takes everyone of us who we are and hopefully evolve into who God meant us to be. I'm on my way. 

Hello,

I am David Shawn Cook and I am sold out on pursuing Jesus and promoting Him through HS inspired music to as many people as I can. I write, produce, record, and master my own music in my home studio in SW Michigan. Reach out to me and make an appointment to spend some time with me in my studio making music or going out to lunch. I love to get to know my fans on a more personal basis as there is so much more to me than music and so much more of you than being a fan. So, sign up for my community and stay in touch. I'd love to hear from you!