Sam says, “‘Naked” is essentially an ode to self-love and sensuality. It encompasses all of what it means to not only be independent, but to be empowered as a female in today’s world. I wrote the song in an effort to help myself recover from a tumultuous break-up, and I hope it helps others do the same.”
A prolific songwriter, Sam Short debuted her solo artist project earlier this year, after a snippet of the track “Already Mine” experience viral success on TikTok garnering her over 10M views, 310K total followers, 13M total likes).
Upon its official release to DSPs, the track landed a number of major editorial playlists including New Music Friday, Pop Sauce, Get Popped!, Breaking Pop, New in Pop, and more. “Naked” comes on the heels of “Already Mine” with a third track “Taste It” in the wings, both also having achieved level of vitality on social platforms TikTok and Instagram with over 5M total views to date.
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
I have been writing since I was a kid. I wrote my first song ever (“Apple Pie”) at the age of seven and haven’t looked back since. I really can’t remember a world in which I haven’t written…I used to write plays, movies, short stories…it’s always been something I have loved.
I think, however, I really started to foster my songwriting in high school and college. And honestly, in COVID I really began discovering what I wanted to say as an artist and how I have wanted to say it.
What is the favorite song you wrote and why?
This is a tough question. I have a lot of songs I have written that I love that will never see the light of day — haha. But in terms of songs that I am planning on releasing in the near future, probably one titled “Helpless.” I think that song is one of my only songs that encapsulates what it means to be truly heartbroken.
Who are your all time musical icons?
My big three are Kendrick Lamar, Bob Dylan and Taylor swift.
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
I try to experience life. I don’t think people carve out enough time for that. Experiencing life (in its highs and in its lows) is so important in terms of being an artist.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Amelia Moore. Her last EP was so sick. I’m a huge fan.
Favorite movie or TV show?
I am a slut for a good, corny TV show. Not ashamed to say I am currently binging “Virgin River” … it is my safe space.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
“Naked” is a song I am really proud of because it took so many forms, and it took so long to officially lock in and release. I had the idea for the song in January, and immediately wrote the chorus. After that, it took about 7 different versions, three different producers and many variations to get the song where it needed to be. I am super proud of where we are at with the song now and am excited for everyone to hear it.
Do you have any peculiar pre or post show rituals?
Well, a quirky little thing about me is that I have OCD — like, diagnosed OCD. So, yes, I have many rituals…for just about everything I do in life. I won’t get into those here! Ha.
What’s the future looking like for you?
Hopefully bright. Ha.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
I am extremely inspired by pop icons such as Lady Gaga and Katy Perry who pushed the “norm” post aesthetically and sonically. I strive to be like them in my artistry.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
Honestly, this sounds dumb, but when my manager heard my demos and decided to work with me. I will forever be grateful for that day, because it honestly changed my life. She believed in me and really pushed me (and continues to push me everyday). I wouldn’t be where I am without her.
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
Don’t be shy. Promote your work. Show people your work. Don’t hide. It seems obvious, but I wish I would’ve learned this sooner.
What would you change in the music and entertainment industry especially after this past year?
I wish we placed more of an emphasis on visuals. I miss the MTV days and I was barely even around for them — ha. I just love visual art so much, and I wish we valued it more. I also wish we valued live performance more. It’s so important. I hope that after COVID, the live world will be 100% back and people will really start pushing the importance of the live show.
