Canadian songstress and self-proclaimed trailblazer Devon Cole is redefining the sound of country music with her bold, eclectic style.
Her latest EP, Two Shades Blonder, released on October 25 via Arista Records, is a testament to her creative evolution. It’s an unapologetic blend of funky R&B influences and down-home country roots, a sound she affectionately calls “funktry.”
Known for her quick wit and bubbly honesty, Devon Cole is a storyteller at heart. “I’d say my songs often have a punchline,” she explains to Celeb Secrets over a Zoom call during a recent visit to New York City.
“Some of them are funny, and I kind of live in this sonic world where R&B and country meet. I like to call it funktry. If Shania Twain and Prince had a baby, it would be me.”
Her unique soundscape is the result of years of experimentation, and Two Shades Blonder perfectly encapsulates her versatility. “These songs are bright, fun, and full of personality. Each one is its own story,” she shares.
Thematically, the EP delves into empowerment, the thrill of the chase, and even moments of insecurity. It’s a project born out of personal growth and self-discovery. “I’ve been shedding layers of myself that no longer serve me,” Devon reveals. “This project is me reclaiming the sound I had before I got signed, following my gut again, and finding my confidence.”
The six-track EP includes standout singles like the funky “Good Guy” and the anthemic “I Got You,” a friendship anthem that captivated millions on social media. Her latest release, “Sugar Daddy,” has already made waves with its playful, Ashley Tisdale-esque vibes. The title track, “Two Shades Blonder,” holds a special place in Devon’s heart. “I wrote it three years ago, and it still hits me in the gut every time I hear it,” she says. “I hope people learn the lyrics so we can sing it together someday.”
One of the secrets Devon shared about the project involves the title track, “Two Shades Blonder.” The striking album cover featuring her as a blonde is a nod to the project’s theme of transformation — but the blonde hair? It’s actually a wig. “Last time I went blonde, I lost all my natural curl, and my hair just stopped growing,” she reveals. “I wanted to keep my hair healthy, so I decided to go with a wig. Now, I think I might just invest in more wigs and embrace the fun of it.”
Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Devon recently relocated from Toronto to Los Angeles to immerse herself in a vibrant creative community. “I wanted to be around people who were also artists, hustling every week,” she explains. The move also holds personal significance. “California was my safe place I always dreamed of running away to,” she admits. Now living her teenage dream, she’s found a new groove in LA — from frequenting queer line dancing nights to diving into daily writing sessions.
Despite the glitz of LA, Devon’s Canadian roots remain a core part of her identity. “Growing up in Calgary, there was a big Western culture,” she says. “Now I have a place to wear all the fabulous boots I’ve acquired over the years!”
Devon’s candidness shines through in her music and her interviews. Her track “All Bad” is particularly personal. “I’m saying some outlandish things like getting kicked out of rehab and wanting to bike to Los Angeles,” she shares. “All of it is true.” This raw vulnerability is what makes Devon so relatable. “I hope people look at my journey and understand that it’s okay to be messy. You must be messy to reach your highest potential.”
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With millions of streams under her belt, critical acclaim from key industry playmakers, nominations at the 2023 Juno Awards for Breakthrough Artist of the Year and 2023 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for Favorite Breakout Artist, and and a win as Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Canada Artist of 2023, Devon Cole is a rising star. Her breakout single “W.I.T.C.H.” (Woman in Total Control of Herself) has surpassed 184 million streams globally, and her sex-positive anthem “Hey Cowboy” further cemented her status as a feminist powerhouse.
Now, with Two Shades Blonder, Devon is setting her sights on new horizons. She’s hinted at plans for a headline tour and dreams of connecting with fans in intimate settings. “Even if only 20 people show up, that’s starting somewhere,” she says.
In March, Devon will embark on her first Canadian headlining tour in support of Two Shades Blonder. The tour promises an intimate and immersive experience, showcasing the full spectrum of her “funktry” sound and personality. Stops will include major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal, with each performance featuring acoustic sets and fan interactions. Devon is eager to bring her music to life on stage, saying, “I can’t wait to connect with everyone who’s supported me and share these songs in a live setting.”
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Devon Cole’s Two Shades Blonder is more than an EP — it’s a declaration of selfhood, a celebration of imperfection, and a bold step forward for this genre-defying artist. Whether you’re drawn to her cheeky lyrics, her empowering anthems, or her infectious “funktry” sound, one thing is clear: Devon Cole is here to stay. “I’m proud of these songs,” she says. “They’re all my babies, and I can’t wait to share them with the world.”
Take a listen to Two Shades Blonder below and don’t forget to let us know what you think of Devon Cole’s music by either leaving a reaction at the bottom of the post or by sliding into our DMs on Instagram at @celebsecretscountry.
You can connect with Devon by giving her a follow on Instagram at @devonmcole and learn more about her upcoming headlining tour here.
