Clarence Greenwood (born May 20, 1968), also known by his stage name, Citizen Cope, is an American singer-songwriter and producer. His music is commonly described as a mix of blues, soul, folk, and rock. Citizen Cope's compositions have been recorded by Carlos Santana, Dido, Pharoahe Monch and Richie Havens. He currently records and produces for his own record label, Rainwater Recordings, which he founded in 2010. He had previously been signed to Capitol, Arista, DreamWorks and RCA.[1] On March 1, 2019, he self-released his first album in six years, Heroin and Helicopters.[2]
Greenwood was initially the DJ for Washington, D.C.–based alternative rock band Basehead. He was signed to Capitol Records in 1997.[4]
In 2000, Citizen Cope signed with DreamWorks and released a self-titled album in 2002.
"Let the Drummer Kick" from his 2002 album Citizen Cope achieved RIAA gold disc status. Greenwood released his following album, One Lovely Day on July 17, 2012.[5]
On March 1, 2019, his first album in six years, Heroin and Helicopters was released.[2][6] He released his first single from the album, "Justice," on November 30, 2018.[7]
Songwriting and producing
Greenwood's work has been recorded by a number of musicians. In 2002, Santana recorded Cope's song "Sideways" for their Shaman album.[7] He performed "Sideways" in concert with Santana on his 2003 European tour.[8] Greenwood sang on and produced the track. Sheryl Crow asked to record the song in 2010 for her 100 Miles from Memphis album, and invited Greenwood to join her in concert on several occasions, including the Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago.[9] At the same festival, Eric Clapton brought Greenwood onstage to perform "Hands of the Saints" together.[10]Corey Taylor also recorded a version of the song. Brett Dennen recorded a version of the song "Healing Hands" for The Voice Project Presents Home Recordings Volume 1 in 2012.[11]