Americana Media Gig Spot

A TRUE Legend...and friend 

Written by:

Pamm Tucker

Owner: Gigspot

Photography: Jim Fondren

 

 

August 14, 1968, not just any ordinary day for Frank and Mary Robel.  At South Community Hospital in OKC, their new baby was born; however, God had a surprise for the couple, as their little bouncing baby boy, was a girl.  Expecting a boy all along, names were picked out, clothes for the trip home packed, but things changed.  Mary stepped up to the plate and gave out instructions to doting daddy, Frank.  She sent him to get a dress, while she began scouring the baby name books, for the perfect name.  Her name…Raina. 

 

Raina attended school in Choctaw OK, where she performed in choir and show choir.   At the age of 18, she got in a blue Mustang, and has been on the ride of her life, with her now husband and biggest fan/supporter, K.C. Cobb. Her other true blue fans that seldom miss a performance are her parents and K.C.’s parents.  “We love to travel and keep up with these kids,” stated Mary.  The in-laws are as supportive of their kids as those who gave life to Raina.

 

After wedding nuptials, Raina found herself performing with local cover bands, the first being Decent Exposure and the most recent The Pulse. Opening for Louise Mandrell was a high point for Raina, and it may be the “straw” that broke the camel’s back, as a few years later Raina has taken over the mic. In 2016, Raina released, “Journey”   With her red-dirt background, this Okie native has touched many souls and hearts with her stunning vocals, and lyrics that give you chills, and your emotions come to life.  Her music is truly American, with a raw, gutsy edge that will send every listener and fan to the outer realms of enjoyment. To ultimately describe Raina, you just have to appear at one of her many gigs.  She has the ability to bring everyone into her music, and leave you hungering for more.  However, I had the opportunity to spend a weekend with her, her “friends”, and family.  There is nothing fake about this gal, she is pure from head to toe.  At any of her performances, you feel like you have packed your suitcase and have traveled the road with Raina. 

 

One of the most unique things about Raina is that she always shares the stage and spotlight with her friends.  Being an only child, you might think that Raina would be selfish, spoiled and have the attitude that goes along with that, but that doesn't sum this lady up.  “I love to share the stage and my love of music,” Cobb states.  While Cobb alone, is a full act, she graces the stage with a totally talented band, as well as singer/songwriters.  In fact, her gigs are booked under “Raina & Friends”.  Friends aren’t just those people on the stage behind instruments/vocals, but the way you are treated immediately, as a best friend.  Recently at her 50th Birthday bash, I got to first-hand experience the friendships that Raina has built.  While at the party, everyone said they were her BEST friend, but there was one, Allison Scott, that truly had me convinced that Raina WAS her sister.   Cobb & Scott, have been friends since childhood, and have performed on stages together.  

 

There is a soft side to Cobb.  in 2018, Nathan Lanier’s wife, Misty (well-known songwriter) was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor.  Every day, The Cobb’s were at Misty’s bedside and had benefits to help pay the rising stack of medical bills. Misty is rehabilitating and attends live performances as she can.  Yet another devastating turn for Raina was when her friend Angie Garner was taken in an automobile accident.  Angie “sold out” the Tower where her memorial was held, but Ang had another sell out in her relationship with Raina.  At the Affair of the Heart, Raina and her Momma came across a stunning dragonfly necklace.  It was literally sparkling with an invitation of ownership.  Raina looked at it and knew it was meant to be.  Often now, while performing,  the dragonfly necklace can be seen around Raina’s neck, letting everyone know that Angie is at the gig.  With tears in her eyes, Raina states, “I always have Ang with me, as I have a rock of hers that I put on my set list. One of her rocks is near my wine bar, and people place them all over so Angie lives on. ”  It’s this kind of friendship that tells you ALL about Cobb.  She is down to earth, and REAL.  as Raina states that is ALL she knows.  

 

Expect a new release from Raina in January 2019, but until then follow her schedule at https://www.rainacobbmusic.com.