Alex Sampson on Music and Inspiration
21-year-old Alex Sampson is Embracing the Now. he gets candid on Life Lessons and Musical Journeys.
Commanding the stage with his genre-defying sound and a penchant for mixing the unexpected, musician Alex Sampson is no stranger to crafting quirky harmonies and electrifying live audiences. With a fearless approach to blending life's flavors into his music, the all-American artist sits down for a quick session of fire-rapid questions that are sure to reveal more about him, his music and his process.
American Studies: If your music were a dish, what would the secret ingredients be, and why do they work so well together?
The secret ingredients would be fries, cheese, and mama’s homemade gravy! They work so well together because of how well the consistencies complement each other and the taste.
American Studies: What’s the most unexpected place or moment you’ve found inspiration for a song?
The most unexpected or awkward moment I’ve found inspiration for a song was when I was mid break up with an ex-girlfriend LOL. While we were breaking up, I was thinking about how I could write about it.
American Studies: If you could have a jam session with any musician from any era—even a fictional one—who would it be and what would you play?
I’d have to have a jam session with Elvis Presley and we’re playing Jailhouse Rock ALL night.
American Studies: What tune would you play to brighten up a gloomy day? Why?
I’d play Life Is Worth Living by Justin Bieber because it reminds me to be grateful even when times are hard.
American Studies: Can you share a fun or quirky moment that happened during one of your live shows that still makes you smile?
My moment that happened during my life shows recently that made me smile was during Used To You, at least 20 fans held up handmade wanted posters that had my face on them inspired by the movie Tangled. I could barely sing I was laughing so hard.
American Studies: When you’re in your creative zone, do you have any playful rituals or habits that help unlock new musical ideas?
I don’t think I do! I usually keep singing and trying to come up with melodies/lyrics until I like them, lol.
“The most unexpected or awkward moment I’ve found inspiration for a song was when I was mid break up with an ex-girlfriend. While we were breaking up, I was thinking about how I could write about it.”
American Studies: What’s your go-to song or riff for turning an ordinary moment into something extraordinary?
I’d have to go with Loved You First by One Direction. BANGER.
American Studies: Is there an unusual project or experiment you’re itching to try out in your next musical adventure?
I haven’t thought about it just yet, but I can’t wait to write an album, and I’ll cross that bridge when I get there!
American Studies: What piece of information did you acquire recently that has changed the way you view the world or that has remained on your mind?
I’ve just been learning to be in the moment more, appreciate how young I am and the time that I have.
American Studies: Is there a film that feels like a portal to another world for you?
I think Interstellar is an amazing movie. Definitely feels like I’m in another world when watching it.
See Alex Sampson on tour with Jamie Miller and listen to his single: “Used to You” now.