Samantha Thomas

SAMANTHA THOMAS

Samantha Thomas plays for the love of the game. The 24 year-old singer has a voice that would make angels jealous and when she opens her soul in song, you can almost see the glow of Heaven’s grapevine lighting up.

A native of Rochester, NY, Thomas has been unwrapping her gift of song since she was in a crib when she would sing herself to sleep. In fact, her love for music was so absorbing that her mother could not refuse it.

“When I was little I remember bed time and I would go to my room, lie down and begin singing myself to sleep,” Samantha recalls. “My mother would allow me to sing for a little while and finally call up “Okay, time to go to sleep.”

Her third grade teacher could not pass up the chance to let Thomas sing either. Upon showcasing her thoroughly embarrassed student by having her sing in front of the class, she promptly sent home an application for admission to a prominent children’s choir. The audition kept the young vocalist busy for the next two years with a spot in the singing group.

Once the arrow left the bow, its path was clear as it sailed toward its target. Samantha’s youth was filled with music-related activities such as school musicals, show choir, and a lengthy run of violin lessons that left her quite adept at the instrument. It also provided a strong frame of reference to draw from as she grew more passionate about her singing.

“I really started to show my talent when I attended college,” Samantha explains. “I took all music courses for my electives and had to perform voice recitals. When the compliments started coming I began to feel more comfortable with my voice.”

Her resume is a testament to a deep well of talent that has washed over her community and includes performing the National Anthem annually at the Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame Dinner as well as local boxing events at the Blue Cross Arena and ESL Sports Center.

The musical influences that have shaped her artistry are unusually eclectic including performers such as Judy Garland, Linda Eder, and Celine Dion. “I don’t really have just one favorite genre and enjoy listening to all kinds of music,” Thomas says. “If I had to pick a favorite it would probably be the old classics/standards. Listening to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, or even Michael Buble gives me goose bumps. I think it is not only their voices alone but the big band music with all the instruments.”

However, the artist that has had the most sweeping impact on her career reflects the range and passion Samantha enjoys so much. “I’d have to say that Mariah Carey has been a huge influence on my music,” the youthful performer admits. “She started her career young and has achieved so much since then. She is constantly changing with the times and her voice remains so strong. I would definitely have to say that she is my idol.”

Carey may be an idol and role model, but love is Samantha’s inspiration. “I love to sing and have loved to sing since I was very little,” she explains bursting with zeal. “When I sing and people are there to hear it and enjoy it, the feeling I get is indescribable. It just makes me happy.”

It makes anyone who can hear her happy too.

Written By: Rick Kern