Sam`s Jams is a local writer`s round circuit hosted by local musician and artist, Sami Jo. For those of you who do not know what a writer’s round is, it is basically a show where three to four artists showcase their original songs. Occasionally you may see a cover or two but usually it is for songwriters. There are typically three sets of rounds in one hour increments, so artists usually play three to four songs. I first became involved with Sam when I was trying to get into some round circuits around Nashville and I heard about her through Instagram. I randomly decided to direct message her on Instagram , and she was so nice and let me play in her June 1ST round at The Historic Homewood Suites hotel off of church street.
What is unique about Sam’s Jams is she hosts themed writer’s rounds! In the past, I have played in her “words and woes” themed round where the performing artists were instructed to play the saddest songs they have written. The other one I did was the round on June 1st, Marilyn Monroe’s birthday, called “blame it on the blonde.” To honor Marilyn’s memory, every artist was blonde, and we played songs embodying the “badass blonde,” “blondes have more fun,” persona. It was a blast! I was so excited when she asked me back to perform in her “minor key” night, where each artist played their most “minor” sounding songs. I was excited for this because most of my songs are written using minor guitar chords, so I had the chance to really showcase my style and image as an artist.
This round was held at The Virgin Hotels, which opened in 2020. The trendy hotel has an outdoor patio and bar which was an amazing venue to play at especially because of the crisp fall air we were having. Since it was such a nice night, there were many hotel guests enjoying cocktails outside, so there was already a built-in audience before the music even began. Once the round started, I noticed more and more people migrating towards the patio area to check the music out! I have played in rounds before where there was little to no crowd, and it is definitely less fun! It always helps when there is an energetic audience to keep the vibes going! I love when I see people dancing to my music! It makes me feel like I am bringing positivity into the world and as a performer, that is such an amazing feeling unlike anything you have ever felt!
I had a blast playing this round! I have not been doing as many shows recently because of the many many tasks that seem to fill up my schedule now that I am in my senior year of college. It was honestly so nice to be on stage and perform again! I love performing because it is such an adrenaline rush that I can only experience when I am up on stage. It felt good to do something for myself and also showcase some new songs that I had not played live yet! I love writer’s rounds because they are so raw and unplugged and everyone is just up there jammin and having fun. You can play whatever you want however you want and there is so much beauty and magic in that. My next round with Sam’s Jams is November 21 at The Virgin Hotels, but this time, I have to write a song using the word “Hello.” Stay tuned to see if I can top Adele……just kidding nobody can top Adele!
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