In-Depth Interview with Melbourne DJ and Producer Cooper Smith

Cooper Smith & Alex Hosking Turn Overthinking into Dancefloor Release “O.V.E.R.”

For Cooper Smith, a rising star in the Melbourne music scene, inspiration strikes in unexpected ways, often rooted within the complexities of his own mind. Known for his dynamic prowess as a DJ and producer, he has recently collaborated with Australian singer-songwriter Alex Hosking on a catchy, energetic dance track titled “O.V.E.R.” This fresh release draws directly from Cooper’s own experiences of overthinking – a tendency that many can relate to, yet few transform into such a vibrant anthem.

The Birth of “O.V.E.R.”

The genesis of “O.V.E.R.” occurred during a casual studio session involving Cooper, Alex, and Jess, Cooper’s support worker. As they conversed about the pervasive habit of overanalyzing everyday situations—replaying conversations and questioning decisions—the idea for the song began to take shape. Rather than seeking inspiration beyond their relatable experiences, they became introspective, channeling Cooper’s thoughts into the very fabric of the track. This natural flow of ideas morphed their personal struggles into a pulsating dance record that reverberates with a universal theme: the cycle of overthinking.

An Exclusive Peek into the Creative Process

In an exclusive interview, Cooper shared insights into how the concept materialized.

Born from Personal Experience

On the journey to crafting “O.V.E.R.,” the trio recognized the connection between mental health, creativity, and the innate pressure many artists feel. Cooper recounted, “While Jess and I were driving to meet Alex in the studio, I was sharing my experiences of overthinking. It felt natural to explore that in a song, as so many creatives face similar expectations on themselves.”

Transforming Struggle into Sound

Creating “O.V.E.R.” allowed the artists not only to articulate their thoughts but also to celebrate the act of overthinking through music. “The track definitely turns overthinking into something fun!” Cooper remarked, acknowledging the somber realities while simultaneously spinning them into something exhilarating and uplifting.

A Collaborative Effort

As the collaboration unfolded, the process transitioned from an open dialogue about mental health into constructing lyrics that encapsulated their shared sentiments. “It was inspirational to see how quickly we all clicked and shared those laughs,” Cooper recalled. With Alex laying down the lyrics, the energy in the room was palpable, illustrating the powerful synergy fostered among the trio.

Celebrating Diversity in Collaboration

Hosking’s background in pop, house, and electronic music, particularly her previous hit “Fake Friends,” adds another layer of depth to “O.V.E.R.” When discussing what Alex brought to the table, Cooper highlighted the newfound complexity in the lyrics that had previously been absent from his music. Their first meeting was characterized by an immediate connection that made exploring new sounds feel both organic and exciting.

The Dancefloor Experience

Prior to its official release, “O.V.E.R.” has already been tested on the vibrant Australian dancefloor. Cooper has been dropping it throughout his tour, which culminated in memorable reactions from crowds in Perth and Sydney at venues like Vault and Chinese Laundry. “Seeing people mouthing the words and truly enjoying the unreleased track was incredible,” he reflected, recognizing the remarkable anticipation that has developed.

Reflections on a Remarkable Journey

Cooper’s journey from teaching himself DJ skills to performing on grand stages such as Ultra Australia and the Australian Open is a testament to his dedication and passion. He described this trajectory as both surreal and a constant push toward future challenges. “It’s a bit of both—doesn’t feel real, but I’m always climbing those mountains,” he noted.

Moreover, Cooper’s experiences with cerebral palsy have profoundly shaped his creative outlet. Challenging societal expectations, he has demonstrated tenacity and passion in proving what can be achieved despite adversity. This ethos has not only influenced his approach to music but also how he connects with his audience.

Future Collaborations and Aspirations

Looking ahead, Cooper shared his aspirations for future collaborations. He expressed an eagerness to work with talents like Kettama, envisioning a gritty techno track infused with rap aspects. This forward-thinking mindset speaks to his desire to continuously innovate and challenge both himself and the industry norms.

Inviting Others into the Conversation

The multifaceted title “O.V.E.R.” resonates with various listeners, allowing them to project their own experiences onto the track, whether dealing with relationships, conversations, or their internal monologues. Cooper hopes that by sharing the song, listeners will feel a sense of kinship in their overthinking. “I want them to know they’re not alone in this and that sometimes, a night out dancing with friends is the best way to escape those thoughts,” he said, highlighting the collective experience of music.

As Cooper Smith and Alex Hosking continue to make waves with “O.V.E.R.,” the track stands as a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the shared struggle of navigating one’s thoughts. Each performance and listener reaction only adds to the narrative, proving that even our most personal battles can be transformed into something worth dancing to.

For those eager to engage with Cooper’s journey, “O.V.E.R.” is now available on all major streaming platforms, encouraging everyone to embrace the ease of letting go on the dancefloor.