On DVD: Coco Jones talks Disney’s Let It Shineby Wilson Morales
August 7, 2012
Out today on home video is the music-driven Disney Channel Original Movie “Let It Shine: Extended Edition,” which stars Tyler James Williams, Coco Jones, Trevor Jackson, Brandon Mychal Smith, Nicole Sullivan, Dawnn Lewis, Alex Desert and Courtney B. Vance.
Set in the world of hip-hop, rap and gospel music, the uplifting modern day story is inspired by Cyrano de Bergerac. Th film takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, as Cyrus DeBarge (Tyler James Williams) and his best friend Kris McDuffy (Trevor Jackson) reunite with their childhood friend, teenage singing sensation Roxanne “Roxie” Andrews (Coco Jones), whose music label is sponsoring a songwriting contest at a teen club. Cyrus, who writes music under the name “Truth,” crafts a heartfelt and contest-winning rhyme about Roxie but to his dismay, his work is mistakenly attributed to Kris. Lacking the confidence to step forward, Cyrus stands by while Kris not only takes credit for the lyrics, but ultimately begins to win Roxie’s heart too. Now, it’s up to the true poet to overcome self-doubt, seize the opportunity to reveal his authentic self, and pursue his dreams. At the same time, Cyrus must convince his preacher father (Courtney B. Vance) that hip-hop music can convey a positive message.
Although she was seen on Disney’s “So Random” as herself and landed a guest starring role on Disney Channel’s “Good Luck Charlie,” this is Coco Jones’ first acting gig. She also became the newest recording artist on The Hollywood Records.
Jones talked to Blackfilm.com about her experience on the film, working with Tyler James Williams, and her music career.
Were you aware of the Cyrano de Bergerac story prior to doing the film?
Coco Jones: Actually, I didn’t know anything about it. I went to do research and watched the ‘Roxanne’ version with Steve Martin. That filled me in.
What was the attraction to doing the film?
CJ: I wanted to do anything honestly. Then, once I heard that my character Roxy had to sing, rap and dance, I was definitely in. That was a bonus.
Being that these aspects of the film are already part of what you do for a living, what was most challenging for you?
CJ: The acting part. I felt more confident the more I practiced. I kept at it until I felt i had it in me to really do it.
How was working with Tyler and Trevor on the set?
CJ: Oh my gosh, it was so much fun working on set with them. They were great on and off camera. They are like my family now. The whole cast was great. Everyone was so talented. This is my first movie so everyone was teaching me everything and the director Paul Hoen was giving me tips. It was an excellent learning experience.
Was there any particular scene that stood out for you when you shot the film?
CJ: I liked the finale scene because it was filled with high energy and I loved tying in acting, singing and performing in one sequence. Everything also worked perfectly from the choreography to the wardrobe. It was really great.
How rewarding is it to also have sung five songs in the film?
CJ: it was very exciting and kind of indescribable too. I didn’t know how it was going to go in the movie, from the acting and everything, but it was better than I ever dreamed of.
What’s the message people will get from seeing this?
CJ: The message is that trying to be someone else never works out in the end. You must believe in yourself and be happy who you are. Everything will work out and don’t be afraid to let your own light shine.
Between singing and now acting, how are you balancing your work schedule and life?
CJ: I think the best way that I balance it is that I neve stressed over anything. I try to make it about having fun and not to worry about what’s coming next. I’m just living my life and dream.
What’s next for you?
CJ: Well, I just signed with Hollywood Records. I’m working on my album now. I’ve been in the studio everyday. I hope to have a single out this year and the album out next year.
What’s going to be different on this album?
CJ: In the old album, I didn’t have the type of songs that I have now. I was just starting out and I was 11. It wasn’t on the level that it is now. Just making everything mine is one thing that I will definitely incorporate. I’m so proud of it.
