Country artist Tyra Madison is no stranger to the spotlight, from viral hits to sharing the stage with industry greats, her voice has touched the hearts of fans far and wide. But behind the powerhouse vocals and chart-climbing singles lies a softer, sweeter side of Tyra, one shaped by quiet moments, homegrown roots, and an inseparable bond with her 3-pound pup, Coco.
In this heartwarming interview, Tyra invites us into her world offstage, sharing the story of how Coco came into her life during college and quickly became her constant travel buddy, creative companion, and emotional anchor. From cozy days on the couch to backstage tour rituals, Coco’s presence is a grounding force for Tyra amidst the whirlwind of the music industry.
We talked to Tyra about the special connection she shares with Coco, how being a dog mom influences her songwriting, and why Coco is every bit as Kentucky-spirited as she is.
Hello Tyra Madison, welcome to Dogopo! We know your music is full of heart and soul—tell us about Coco! How did she come into your life, and what made you know she was the one?
I got Coco in 2019 when I was about to graduate from college. I’ve always been an animal lover, and I knew I wanted a dog, but didn’t have time until my senior year. I got Coco on a website called puppyspot.com, and she was shipped to me, so I had to go pick her up. She wasn’t even a pound when I got her.
What does a typical day in the life of Tyra and Coco look like when you’re not on the road? Any favorite routines or must-haves?
Coco loves to nap, so we’re probably on the couch watching a show, cuddling on my days off.
You’ve performed alongside big names and at major festivals—does Coco travel with you? How does she handle the tour life?
Coco is always with me. If I have somewhere I can put her while I perform, or my mom (her nana) is there, Coco is there. Coco will for sure live with me on my tour bus in the future. She loves traveling like I do.
How has being a dog mom influenced your emotional life, creativity, or even your songwriting?
If I’m sad, Coco knows. She has a way of knowing when I’m upset and comforts me. With creativity or songwriting, Coco is sometimes in the room when I write. My co-writers love having her there.
Can you share a funny or heartwarming story about Coco that still makes you smile (or cry)?
I would say Coco’s birthdays make me smile. We always get her a puppy cupcake or cookie to celebrate. She also really loves a pup cup.
Being in the public eye can be overwhelming. How does Coco help you stay grounded through it all?
Coco reminds me of my home. I don’t have kids of my own, but Coco is like my child. She helps me relax and ground myself when music keeps me busy.
Your new single “Kentucky In Me” speaks to roots and resilience. Do you feel Coco shares a bit of that Kentucky spirit, too?
For sure! Coco loves being a KY girl. A lot of people say that your dog is a version of you, and that could not be more true about Coco and me.
What’s the one thing about Coco that fans might be surprised to learn? And if she could talk, what do you think she’d say about life with Tyra Madison?
Coco is full-grown and 3 pounds. I think she would say her life is good and glamorous, but she would also say to please stop dressing her up or putting bows in her hair. I just can’t help myself!
For more information on Tyra Madison, visit her website tyramadison.com and follow her on Instagram @tyramadison, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube @TyraMadisonMusic.