Father, Musician, Artist, Hairstylist, Friend and Survivor! Gary Cooper was born in Detroit and raised in Hallandale, Florida. It was there where he learned how to play the guitar and piano and soon began playing in local bands. After a recording contract, Top 10 Record on the Billboard Chart, and hair school, Gary met his future wife. They were married for 13 years and everything that happened during their marriage and after made it possible for Gary to write this book.