Singer and vocal coach Cooper Phillip talks to Atwood Magazine about her extraordinary musical journey, how the Biophonics respiratory correction method helped her reclaim her voice, and how she’s now helping thousands do the same, empowering singers worldwide through holistic, body-based vocal coaching.
Stream: “Last One” – Cooper Phillip
An incredibly talented artist, vocal coach, and entrepreneur, Cooper Phillip is unstoppable.
She has not only captivated audiences around the world with her soulful pop music, but has also helped over 50,000 singers across more than 70 countries unlock their full vocal potential. Songs like “Not Perfect” and her holiday hit “One Sweet December Night” are as infectious as they are impressive, showcasing her stunning vocal prowess.
Cooper Phillip’s journey to success is nothing short of inspiring. After battling severe asthma and a series of health challenges at the age of 17, she discovered the transformative power of the Biophonics breathing correction method—and in doing so, turned her personal healing into a global movement that’s changing lives through music and vocal coaching.
Developed by Ukrainian scientist Peter Goncharuk, the Biophonics method focuses on restoring proper breathing mechanics and body alignment—improving not only vocal performance, but overall health and well-being.
Phillip’s passion for vocal training led her to develop a unique approach rooted in body alignment, breath mastery, and vocal placement. Her method has become a game-changer for aspiring and professional singers alike, empowering them to take control of their voices and reach their fullest potential. With collaborations under her belt with music legends like John Legend and Tom Jones – and a packed year ahead including new music, live shows, and a tour in Asia – Cooper Phillip is just getting started.
Atwood Magazine dives into her story, her method, and what’s next for this powerhouse of a vocal coach and artist.
With a voice forged through adversity and a mission rooted in healing, Cooper Phillip is more than just a performer — she’s a catalyst for transformation. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical self-belief. Atwood Magazine dives into her journey, her method, and what’s next for this powerhouse vocal coach and artist who’s changing the way the world sings.
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:: connect with Cooper Phillip here ::
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A CONVERSATION WITH COOPER PHILLIP
Atwood Magazine: How was Biophonics started?
Cooper Phillip: At 17, I was struggling with severe asthma, and no doctor or treatment seemed to help. Singing was my dream, but my voice was inconsistent—some days, I could hit every note, and other days, I was completely hoarse. That’s when I met Peter Goncharuk, a scientist from Ukraine and the guru behind the Biophonics breathing correction method.
In just three sessions, he completely transformed my breathing, and my life took a 180-degree turn. Not only did I heal from asthma, but I also lost over 40 pounds of weight caused by years of hormonal therapy and steroids. My voice changed, my health improved, and for the first time, I felt completely in control of my instrument.
The impact was so profound that I immediately started sharing this method with other singers. Even at 17-18 years old, I realized how powerful this knowledge was—how it could save voices, restore health, and unlock potential. What started as my personal healing journey naturally evolved into something much bigger, and today, Biophonics continues to change lives.
What do you think is the most important part of vocal training?
Cooper Phillip: For me, the foundation of vocal training is breathing—correct, efficient breathing that not only supports the voice but also promotes health, consistency, and longevity in singing. Developing a habit of proper breath control was the key to unlocking resonance in my body and completely transforming my vocal ability and career.
But breathing alone isn’t enough. Connection with the body is just as crucial, yet often underestimated. Before we even begin vocal exercises or breathing warm-ups, we need to prepare the body—through stretches, body correction, and tension release. The body holds onto trigger points, tension, and mental blocks, all of which can limit vocal freedom.
A full-body scan before singing helps identify these blocks, allowing for a deeper and more natural vocal connection. Breathing bridges the gap between the body and voice, and what we hear as sound is simply the result of everything happening within us. True vocal mastery begins inside the body first.
What makes your practices so effective?
Cooper Phillip: Honestly? Passion and a deep desire to help people unlock their voices. I never expected to become a vocal coach at such a young age, but my love for the craft and my drive to see singers thrive have shaped my approach into something truly impactful.
Most vocal techniques focus on only one aspect of the voice, but I believe the voice is a reflection of everything happening in the body—both mentally and physically. That’s why my method is built on three essential pillars:
1. Body Alignment & Tension Release – Before even thinking about singing, the body must be balanced and free of tension. A singer’s posture, movement, and physical state all influence vocal performance.
2. Breathing Mastery – Breath is the foundation of a strong, healthy voice. A structured breathing routine not only improves vocal control but also enhances overall well-being.
3. Vocal Placement & Physique – Understanding vocal style, resonance, and the natural structure of each singer’s voice allows for greater control, agility, and power.
By combining these three elements, my method doesn’t just teach singers how to sing better—it helps them unlock their full vocal potential with consistency, longevity, and true artistic freedom.
You have shared your stunning soul pop pieces with the world, and now you are giving back to others with your vocal lessons. What have you enjoyed most about sharing your training?
Cooper Phillip: Honestly, I love being on stage just as much as I love teaching. But the most rewarding part? Watching singers transform—not just vocally, but mentally. Seeing their confidence grow, their motivation ignite, and their understanding of their own voice deepen is incredibly powerful.
What excites me the most is giving singers the right tools to build a strong, consistent vocal routine—one they can rely on without needing a coach every step of the way. Because at the end of the day, I believe that every singer is the true architect of their own voice. My job is to help them see that, to guide, empower, and set them up for success.
The moment they realize they own their sound—that’s when the magic happens.
How have you been able to hone in on your vocal prowess? Were there any mentors who helped you along the way?
Cooper Phillip: I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from some of the most brilliant teachers throughout my journey. Each of them gave me unique insights into vocal technique, artistry, and the deep connection between voice and body.
Meeting Peter Goncharuk in 2007 was life-changing—his breathing correction method completely transformed my understanding of vocal health and technique. In Russia, where I was born and raised, I studied under Oleg Sleptov, who provided me with a strong technical foundation that I still carry with me today.
In the U.S., I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible vocal experts like Nicholas Cooper, Steve Mackey, and Amy Chapman. Their knowledge, passion, and unique approaches have influenced me both as a singer and as a vocal coach.
Every teacher, every lesson, and every experience has helped me refine my technique, expand my knowledge, and develop my own method—one that I now share with singers all over the world.
You have collaborated with greats such as John Legend and Tom Jones. What was that like for you?
Cooper Phillip: Both of these collaborations were truly unforgettable.
For John Legend, I had the honor of working on a surprise celebration song for his birthday, where I was part of the choir, helped arrange the piece, and sang. Though I didn’t get to meet him in person, being part of a project celebrating such an iconic artist was an incredible experience.
With Tom Jones, the experience was much more personal. We both performed at a private gala, and after my set, he came up to me, shared his support, complimented my voice, and we had an amazing conversation. That night, we almost ended up performing together! Seeing him live was a masterclass in stage presence and endurance—his stamina and passion for performing were absolutely inspiring.
That moment with Tom Jones, and the opportunity to be part of John Legend’s celebration, were both huge highlights in my career, reminding me of the power of music and the importance of lifelong artistry.
I understand you are an international vocal competition winner. Can you tell us more about that experience?
Cooper Phillip: I began participating in singing competitions at the age of 11 or 12, having started singing professionally at 10. My initial competitions were jazz-oriented, leading me to immerse myself in jazz and soul music, performing jazz standards in various arrangements. This jazz foundation enriched my understanding of rhythm and improvisation.
Competing provided me with continuous stage exposure, the opportunity to learn new material, and the experience of measuring my skills against other talented singers—a process I deeply admired. Participating in and winning numerous competitions during my youth not only honed my craft but also played a pivotal role in my career.
These achievements enabled me to apply successfully for an Extraordinary Ability Visa (O-1) in the United States. This visa is designated for individuals who have demonstrated sustained national or international acclaim in their field. Securing this visa was a significant milestone, allowing me to obtain my U.S. green card and, eventually, citizenship. Reflecting on this journey, I’m profoundly grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped my path as an artist.
Your music focuses on themes of self-love and empowerment. What advice could you provide to others looking to find their inner strength?
Cooper Phillip: Finding inner strength is a personal journey, and surrounding yourself with supportive people can make a significant difference. When you have friends, family, or mentors who uplift and encourage you, it becomes easier to face challenges and stay motivated.
Engaging in activities you love also plays a crucial role. Whether it’s a hobby, sport, or creative pursuit, doing what brings you joy can boost your confidence and sense of self-worth.
Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize your well-being. Learning to say no when necessary and taking time for self-care are essential steps toward building inner strength.
Lastly, practicing positive self-talk can transform your mindset. Encourage yourself with kind words and recognize your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can nurture self-love and empowerment, paving the way to discovering and strengthening your inner resilience.
Who are some confident artists that truly inspired you?
Cooper Phillip: I find inspiration in so many artists, but what really moves me are those who are completely free in their expression—the ones who don’t let the industry mold them, who stay true to their vision no matter what. There’s something so powerful about watching someone who knows exactly who they are and refuses to compromise their authenticity.
It’s not just about musical style; it’s about energy, resilience, and the stories behind the success. I love learning about the struggles artists had to overcome to make it—those stories remind me that nothing great comes easy. When I see how much they pushed through, how they turned obstacles into stepping stones, it makes me believe even more in my own journey.
At the end of the day, it’s those artists who create without fear—the ones who put their souls into their work, no matter what—that truly inspire me to keep evolving and pushing forward as an artist.
What’s next for Cooper Phillip?
Cooper Phillip: I’m thrilled to share that 2025 is shaping up to be an exhilarating year! I’m gearing up to release a collection of new tracks that I’ve poured my heart into, and I can’t wait for you all to hear them. Live performances are also on the horizon, with plans for shows that I hope will resonate deeply with audiences.
One of the most exciting developments is my upcoming tour in Asia, marking my inaugural teaching venture in Japan. The response has been overwhelming; the Tokyo workshop sold out a month and a half in advance. This enthusiasm fills me with immense gratitude and reinforces my belief in the universal appeal of what I do. I’m deeply thankful to my friends, fans, and supporters who stand by me daily, sharing in this journey with love and passion.
Additionally, I’m hosting a vocal workshop in Los Angeles on March 8th. This 4-hour deep dive will focus on enhancing vocal techniques and fostering personal growth through music. I’m eager to connect with participants and explore the transformative power of voice together.
Stay tuned for more updates, and I look forward to sharing these experiences with all of you!
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:: connect with Cooper Phillip here ::
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Stream: “Last One” – Cooper Phillip
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© Alena Sable
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