Appearances can be deceiving – consider Cota, a big guy with an even bigger beard, prominent tattoos and a physically imposing presence. The impression changes when he begins to sing with a smooth angelic vocal tone that is reminiscent of the R&B greats who have influenced his artistry.
 
The singer, songwriter and guitarist has opened shows for both classic soul artists and hard-edged hip-hop creators like The Game and Tyga.  When he opened for the legendary Baby Bash, the two linked up and Bash affiliated him with the Silent Giant Entertainment family through his label, BashTown Recordings. They also collaborated on a track titled “Show Off,” that Cota describes as “A high confidence song.”
 
In addition to being musicians, his family has a long lineage as barbers. While audiences now know him for his music, he is also sometimes recognized with shouts of “Cota the Barber!” He says it’s almost like an alias, as he notes the similarities between his two endeavors. “I get the same feeling when I record, or when people enjoy my music when I’m performing, as I do when I show someone the mirror after their haircut. They smile, and the vibe is crazy.”