Jody Cooper Composed a Memorial in Sound – An Interview with the Songwriter Behind “40 Years”

With 40 Years, Jody Cooper channelled raw remembrance into a powerful tribute shaped by truth, melody, and conviction. The single responds to the #OurStoryIsOne campaign, which marks the 40th anniversary of the execution of ten Bahá’í women in Shiraz. In this deeply reflective interview, Jody opens up about how personal connection fuelled his creative process, why accuracy matters when telling stories through song, and how a move to Germany reshaped his understanding of generational trauma. His approach to composition balances delicate introspection with cinematic weight, capturing both the sorrow and defiance carried through the decades. Welcome to A&R Factory, Jody, and thank you for taking the time to speak with us ahead of your latest release. “40 Years” tackles a tragic and powerful story. Can you talk us through the moment you decided to write the track and how you approached translating such an emotionally charged subject into music? In 2023, I received an email from the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) announcing the #OurStoryIsOne campaign, which commemorated the 40th anniversary of the execution of ten Iranian women by hanging. Their ‘crime’: being Bahá’ís. The campaign asked for, among other things, artistic contributions that might highlight these women’s story. As soon […] The post Jody Cooper Composed a Memorial in Sound – An Interview with the Songwriter Behind “40 Years” appeared first on A&R Factory.

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With 40 Years, Jody Cooper channelled raw remembrance into a powerful tribute shaped by truth, melody, and conviction. The single responds to the #OurStoryIsOne campaign, which marks the 40th anniversary of the execution of ten Bahá’í women in Shiraz. In this deeply reflective interview, Jody opens up about how personal connection fuelled his creative process, why accuracy matters when telling stories through song, and how a move to Germany reshaped his understanding of generational trauma. His approach to composition balances delicate introspection with cinematic weight, capturing both the sorrow and defiance carried through the decades. Welcome to A&R Factory, Jody, and thank you for taking the time to speak with us ahead of your latest release. “40 Years” tackles a tragic and powerful story. Can you talk us through the moment you decided to write the track and how you approached translating such an emotionally charged subject into music? In 2023, I received an email from the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) announcing the #OurStoryIsOne campaign, which commemorated the 40th anniversary of the execution of ten Iranian women by hanging. Their ‘crime’: being Bahá’ís. The campaign asked for, among other things, artistic contributions that might highlight these women’s story. As soon […]

The post Jody Cooper Composed a Memorial in Sound – An Interview with the Songwriter Behind “40 Years” appeared first on A&R Factory.