NYC artist Cole Lumpkin just bagged the #1 spot on Amazon Music, and it’s not just about catchy hooks—it’s about a bold musical vision that spans decades.
Born and raised in the city that never sleeps, Cole’s been working full-time as a freelance producer and engineer while shaping his identity as an artist. After six years in the game, the past three have been a whirlwind of growth, powered by his partnership with Suite 484 and Sony’s The Orchard.
Cole’s genre? He calls it progressive pop—a marriage of experimental rock influences from the 70s and 80s with mainstream pop accessibility. The balance is tricky, but Cole’s mastered it, serving up music that’s technically complex but totally easy on the ears.
Think of odd time signatures, unpredictable chord shifts, and face-melting solos, all tucked inside melodic hooks, 808s, and glossy pop production. It’s rare to find an artist who can bridge those two worlds—and Cole’s doing it seamlessly.
He draws inspiration from music rebels and sonic innovators like Frank Zappa, Jon Bellion, and Pharrell, with a vocal tone and emotional range reminiscent of Kiana Lede.
Before this major win, Cole’s already built a pretty impressive resume—hitting a million streams, landing an artist deal with Suite 484 and The Orchard, and becoming an affiliate with Waves Audio. He’s also produced and engineered for legends like John Legend, Santana, and O.A.R.
His recording style is all about vibe: build the structure in a large studio, then head home to add soul and emotion. It’s a mix of pro-level gear and cozy creative freedom. Mixing is fluid, often happening on the move before being fine-tuned in front of trusted monitors.
With two more singles to go before he releases his full debut album, Cole’s advice to rising artists is simple but powerful: do it yourself. Don’t wait for someone else to show you how—learn the craft and take the reins of your own vision.
Cole Lumpkin isn’t just riding a wave—he’s building one. And this is just the beginning.