Jazz sensation Samara Joy, 24, unveils new single ahead of forthcoming album Portrait
Samara Joy, the Grammy-winning jazz singer who captured hearts with her 2022 album Linger Awhile, is set to release her third studio album, Portrait, on October 11 via Verve Records. This highly anticipated album follows her breakout success and showcases her talents not only as a vocalist but also as a songwriter and bandleader.
The album includes new arrangements of classics such as "You Stepped Out of a Dream" and "Autumn Nocturne," as well as Joy’s lyrical interpretations of music by Charles Mingus, Sun Ra, and others. The recording process was efficient, with only two or three takes per track to capture the band members' intimate chemistry.
Joy explains the album’s concept as a "well of inspiration that never runs dry," emphasizing the diverse musical backgrounds and perspectives of her band. "Eight musicians, eight fresh perspectives and musical backgrounds, all joined together in a context designed for growth and exploration," she says. The album is a synthesis of Joy's road adventures throughout the last year.
The 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition provided an opportunity for her to showcase her talents, catapulting her into the spotlight as a promising young jazz vocalist.
Having already proven herself as a notable jazz artist, Joy further solidified her reputation with the release of Linger Awhile, which earned her a well-deserved Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album and made her a celebrated winner in the category of Best New Artist.
Samara Joy McLendon is an American jazz singer. She released her self-titled debut album in 2021 and was subsequently named Best New Artist by JazzTimes. Her second album, Linger Awhile ,
To promote Portrait, Joy has announced an extensive tour across the United States for the remainder of 2024. The tour will kick off at the D.C. Jazz Festival in Washington, D.C., on August 30 and will include stops in Charleston, St. Paul, St. Louis, and Mesa, among other cities. Highlights of the tour include performances at the Monterey Jazz Festival and Carnegie Hall, concluding in Philadelphia on December 23.
With Portrait, Samara Joy continues to showcase her remarkable talent and dedication to jazz, blending tradition with her unique artistic vision.