1.    Hi Sammy, can you tell me a little bit about yourself before you became a country musician?

   Hey there! My first passion growing up was motocross. I started racing at 8 years old in Montana and was fairly successful, so my family moved to California and I eventually spent a summer racing in the semi-pro ranks. I also loved acting which ultimately took me out to Los Angeles when I was 21. I performed in several productions and a few commercials, but music slowly took over and it has been at the forefront ever since. 

2.    When did you start listening to country music and when did you know you wanted a career in it?

   Honestly, I wasn’t a huge fan of country music growing up. It wasn’t until after I moved to California around the age of 14 when I really started to get into the music. I think I wrote my first song in the 7th grade, but I started taking it seriously around 19 when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. Since then, my pursuit of a career in music has taken me on some wild journeys.

3.    Who are some of your musical icons?

   My favorite band is Kings of Leon. Their music has been my life’s soundtrack. Bruce Springsteen is up there with the best of them. Dierks Bentley was my introduction to country music and I’ve studied his work a lot. Kip Moore has been an influence of mine as well. His lyrics and arrangements have really inspired me over the years. 

4.    What made you decide to put out a live album from Molly Malone’s?

   Back in 2017 I released my debut album, “Beyond Nowhere”. I performed an album release show at Molly Malone’s with a full band.  We acquired the live recording which came out really well so I released it on the major digital platforms. It was also a very special performance for me because I had family in the band. My mother played keys, my stepfather played bass and a family friend was on the drums. It was one of those nights and performances that I will cherish forever.

5.    Is there anything new coming up with your music in 2019?

   I’m very excited about 2019. I’m working on a couple projects with producers who aren’t of the country genre which excites me because I really like to explore different music. Also, I generally play solo acoustic gigs, but I’m putting together a couple full band shows for the summer. 

6.    Where has been some of your favorite venues or events to play?

   I played a pop-up show in a park in Lima, Peru back in 2017 which was such an unexpected and pure experience. The Waterhole in Amsterdam is a great venue with an incredible house band. The Whisky A-Go-Go in Hollywood is where I played my very first show and there is so much history there, so that spot is special. I have always loved performing at Kulak’s Woodshed in North Hollywood. Intimate space with a great musical community.

7.    If you have to describe your music in 3 to 5 words, what words would you choose?

   If I had to narrow it down I’d say honest, raw, nostalgic, emotional and eclectic.

8.    What is one of your favorite quotes?

   “Don’t be so nervous.” – My pops, Wayne

9.    Is there anything else you would like to share?

   Well first, thank you! I really enjoyed chatting with you. Definitely want to give a shoutout to my friends, family and fans who have come out to the shows and supported my musical journey thus far. I’m so grateful for you all. We’re just getting started!