Pura Coco
Pura Coco
Nicole Vasquez, also known as Pura Coco, a rising star from Springdale, Arkansas, is making waves in the local scene with her unique blend of alternative soul, R&B, and Latin influences. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Coco’s early exposure to a mix of Spanish music and genres like R&B and rap has deeply influenced her sound. Her music merges these diverse cultural backgrounds into a distinct style that resonates with a broad audience.
Coco's path into music began in middle school, where she wrote her first song inspired by heartbreak. However, it wasn’t until she joined the Latinx Theater Project in Northwest Arkansas (NWA) that her interest in music and storytelling truly took root. It was there that she learned the power of sharing personal stories through music, an approach that would become a central theme in her work. “I started writing for the Latinx theater project, and that led me to start writing for myself,” Coco explains. Her early songs like “Why” and “LadyBug” were emotional, reflecting the struggles she was experiencing at the time, but more recently, she has been able to write purely for the sake of creativity.
Coco’s live performances are a key element of her artistic identity. Known for her interactive style, she engages her audience by splitting crowds, leading competitions, and incorporating fun, lighthearted moments like giving away Coco Puffs during shows. “The best part of performing is making people feel comfortable and part of the experience,” Coco says. Her performances are a mix of energy and intimacy, with her ability to connect with the crowd standing out as a significant aspect of her shows.
Some of the defining moments in Coco’s career came when she opened for Indie artist, Japanese Breakfast, and performed at Format Fest, a major regional festival in Northwest Arkansas. Sharing the stage with artists like Little Sims and Leon Bridges, Coco was introduced to a larger audience, which led to positive feedback and recognition. “People came up to me afterward, shocked that I was a local artist,” she recalls, a testament to her growing presence in the music world.
Whenever Coco is actively creating music, she remains grounded in her local community, offering advice and support to other emerging artists. She’s committed to expanding her reach while also sharing her knowledge with those starting their careers. “I make sure to share what I did to get where I am in case any local artists want to follow a similar path,” she shares.
In the coming months, Coco plans to explore new sonic territories, including rock and electronic music, while continuing to develop her alternative soul and R&B style. Her upcoming track, "Throw It Up," is a playful departure from her usual introspective sound, offering a more upbeat and fun anthem.
Coco’s dedication to her craft and willingness to experiment with new genres set her apart in the music industry, positioning her for continued success.