Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Samuel Jack

Samuel Jack has built a reputation as an emotive storyteller whose soulful vocals command any room. His songwriting knows no bounds, covering a wide range of themes from love to pain to occasionally even politics. This year, he’s showing off a new side of his artistry with the upbeat and fun single, “Feels Like Summer”. Pop Culturalist sat down with Samuel to chat about the song and his upcoming debut album.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Samuel: In my early teens, my parents were big music fans. I was raised on old soul, blues, and roots and country. I remember Van Morrison blaring out my dad’s record player when we lived in London and singing along to it in the bath when I was a kid. There’s just something about a voice as impassioned as that—it really got me. It still does!

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Samuel: Three people instantly come to mind when I get asked that question. Firstly, my best mate, James. He was the first person that told me I could sing and went on to pretty much force me to do one night at our local pub. I sang “Light My Fire” by The Doors. Without him, I always wonder whether I would have ever sat down at a piano.

Secondly, I’d say the people I work closely with now: Owen Thomas and Lily-May Young at Landon Records. They saw something in me. They believed in me and continue to do so. We’ve been on quite the journey together, and I’ve learned so much from them. Beyond that, they’ve showed me what it is to be an artist and helped me find my voice.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Feels Like Summer”. What inspired the song?
Samuel: I really wanted to write a song that wasn’t necessarily heart-wrenching and heavy, even though I love those. I wanted to write something uplifting that made me feel good. Music can take you anywhere. This one is full of nostalgia, and it’s a celebration of the good times and not wanting to let that go. I just hope people smile when they hear it.

PC: Your debut album is dropping later this year. What can you tease about it?
Samuel: Oh, blimey. All I can say right now is that it will be big, bold, and full of soul. It’s a collection of songs I’ve written along the way on this crazy journey. It’s honest. It comes right from the middle of me, and it’ll be here soon!

PC: What was it like putting together your debut album? Did anything surprise you about the experience?
Samuel: I wouldn’t say I was surprised, but it’s been a big emotional exercise for sure. With it being my first full-length album, there are definitely some nerves. It’s a poignant moment for me. I never thought I’d sing on a stage, let alone write an album, but I have. It’s my biggest achievement to date.

PC: If you had to choose one song off the album that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
Samuel: That is a tough one! I think for the lyrical content, I’d say “My People”. It epitomizes what I’m all about and what I’ve been through.

PC: What does the rest of the year hold for you as we look ahead in 2019?
Samuel: Lots more releases scheduled beyond the album release. I’ll be touring select dates in the U.K., Europe, and America. I’ll also be writing!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Samuel: Stormzy

PC: First album you bought?
Samuel: Oasis’ (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?

PC: First concert you attended?
Samuel: Paul Weller

PC: Someone you’d love to collaborate with?
Samuel: Jorja Smith

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Samuel: Paul Simon’s Graceland. It’s the album that started my love of community and gospel singing.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Samuel: Wembley

PC: A must-have on the road?
Samuel: A Dave

To keep up with Samuel, follow him on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Feels Like Summer” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.