Chatting with Teen Sensation Coco Jones

CREATED Nov. 16, 2012

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  • Coco Jones in downtown Lansing, November 16, 2012.

Disney Channel star of "Let It Shine" and recently-signed Hollywood Records recording artist Coco Jones will be performing live on the Capitol steps as a part of this year's Silver Bells in the City celebration.

At 14 years old, Coco Jones has been a part of the entertainment world for several years. The teen sensation has recurring roles in Disney Channel's "So Random" and "Good Luck Charlie," and is working on recording new music for her debut album.

Fans will be able to hear some of the new music tonight when Coco performs live at the Capitol following the fireworks show. She'll be performing from approximately 7:45-8:45PM.

I sat down with Coco Jones this morning to talk about her experiences in the industry at a young age, advice she has for aspiring artists, and what are some of her favorite holiday traditions.

 

STEFANIE POHL: Getting started in the business at such a young age, what has your experience been like?

COCO JONES: It's been really life-changing. I've had to grow up a lot, and I've had to sacrifice a lot - my family too. My mom travels with me, and my brothers and sister at home miss their mom and miss me. It takes a lot of dedication and will to survive in this business. There are so many people telling you 'no' that you have to just go for it, no matter what anybody says. It's been harder than I ever would have expected, but I wouldn't change it for anything.

POHL: Is there a path you would like to go down or things you'd like to do in the future?

JONES: In the future, I'd like to have some more movies and maybe a TV show. A worldwide tour, or something international, would be wonderful. If I could choose, I'd want to go to Japan, Paris, and Africa.

POHL: There will be many young fans excited to see you perform in downtown Lansing for Silver Bells in the City. What would you say to those young fans who are aspiring artists?

JONES: I would tell them to really never stop believing in themselves. No matter what the see, what they hear, what they feel. Never give up. It takes dedication - that's the main reason why I'm here today. Now I'm doing my dream job. You can never let anyone stop you.

POHL: Silver Bells in the City is the kicking off of the holiday season for the area. How does it feel to be a part of an event like this one?

JONES: I did a parade in Tennessee in my hometown, but it was smaller. Nothing as big as Silver Bells. I'm really excited to be here today and I want to introduce my fans to some of my new music and perform some Christmas songs. I want to see the fireworks and I'm excited to be in the parade.

POHL: Silver Bells in the City is a holiday tradition for many families in the area. What would you say are some of your favorite holiday traditions?

JONES: A tradition we do is something my dad started. Whenever we have Christmas, we're only allowed to play Christmas songs. And not Christmas songs that people have done recently, but all of these 80s songs and old-timey Christmas songs. My dad always says, "We have to listen to Christmas music! This is Christmas, we have to get in the spirit!" My dad also always gets a real Christmas tree, no matter what. No matter how many times we have to clean up the pine needles. But it brings us closer to together and it's worth it to see how he takes it to another level.

POHL: What do you want the most for Christmas this year?

JONES: I want a car, really really bad. I get my permit in January, so I really want to start looking for my car. And then I want a really cute purse and some clothes.
 

 

Despite being a multi-talented recording artist and actress, it's safe to say that Coco Jones is just like many other 14-year-old girls.

Watch the teen sensation take to the steps of the Capitol building to perform live in Downtown Lansing from approximately 7:45-8:45PM, capping off the 28th year of Silver Bells in the City.

Visit our Silver Bells section on FOX47News.com for details on the parade route, traffic and parking information, and a schedule of events.