Iyah Cooper: A Profile

Walking the streets of San Francisco one may encounter a number of unique street performers. Live statues, break-dancers, and musicians dot the city, providing entertainment to passerby. Iyah Cooper is one such musician, and you can see the looks of admiration and amusement on the faces of those who stand watching him. Playing Reggae music on a set of old bongos, Cooper is celebrating a dozen years performing on Mission streets.
Walking by Cooper, one would see a rather average looking, 55-year-old African American man sporting long, graying dreadlocks. However, taking the time to stop and listen, one can hear the passion and enthusiasm he has held for music since his youth. Growing up in rural Georgia, Cooper faced lingering prejudice and discrimination in the Southern state. Turning to music as an escape, Cooper began to teach himself the art of percussion. Playing since the age of 14, Cooper performed for his friends and family, as well as in musical productions during his high school days. Skipping college, Cooper decided to try his hand at making a living through music, playing shows at venues around the state. Being acknowledged for his talent, he was asked to teach music at local schools and during after school programs in his community.
“He truly has an amazing talent,” says Sean Carpenter, a Mission resident. “He always has an audience. He’s become sort of a mobile community gathering spot. It’s incredible.”
Cooper says he chose to live in the Mission upon arriving in San Francisco because of its “diversity and culture.” Becoming a part of the SF Art Project in 1998, he began teaching workshops in music to local Mission elementary school students, particularly at Cesar Chavez Elementary School. During this same time he began teaching music to community children through the Marsh Theatre, located at Valencia and 22nd Street. Putting on theatre productions, Cooper taught and conducted the theatre’s orchestra for three years. Due to this, Cooper has been able to watch a lot of local youth grow up before his eyes.
Cooper has spent the last decade of his life spreading his musical talent and love around San Francisco’s Mission District. Becoming a staple figure in the community, locals and visitors alike are drawn to the loud, rhythmic beats he produces on his drums. However, when asked why he plays his music, Cooper simply responds, “I play for myself.”