Check out our interview with Canadian singer-songwriter Sam Hart who just released her new single “Thirty and Thriving” today!
Thirty and Thriving serves as a poignant anthem for anyone navigating the complexities of coming of age in the modern world.
Follow Sam @samanthanicolehart
Hi Sam, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! My name is Sam Hart and I’m a singer-songwriter, actor and writer based in Toronto. I love every kind of pasta, spending time with my friends, cooking with my boyfriend, taking my dog Ellie to the park and playing Barb in “The Three L’s with Deb and Barb,” a comedy sketch my friend Kae and I created together.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Thoughtful, creative and kind
How did you get started in the industry?
I got started in the industry when I was young, through musical theatre. I loved being on stage and getting to wear costumes! As I got older and after many vocal lessons, I started writing my own music and released an LP of songs when I was 17. I’ve been releasing music ever since.
How has making music changed your life?
Music has changed my life in many ways. It has been a part of the lowest and the highest moments, it’s supported me, smiled with me and cried with me. Music introduced me to many of my lifelong friendships and has allowed me to play a special part in many milestones in my friends and families’ lives. Music is the core of my entire life, a constant soundtrack that’s always changing with me.
Describe your sound in 3 words.
Cinematic, ethereal and gentle
Who influenced you? Why did you choose to make music?
I was heavily influenced by Sara Bareilles, Taylor Swift and Disney Princess. I chose to make music because I felt really proud of the poems I was writing and I wanted to see where that would take me.
Do you play any instrument(s)?
Yes, I play piano.
Do you ever get nervous?
Absolutely I get nervous! No matter how prepared I am, I still get butterflies in my stomach before I perform in any way. Usually, once the first word comes out the nerves go away.
Tell us about your single “Thirty and Thriving.”
“Thirty and Thriving” is about the ongoing expectations of women in today’s society. How we are pressured to follow each step in the right order or we are considered ‘failing.’ “Thirty and Thriving” is about accepting that everyone is living on their own timelines.
What’s the story behind the song?
I wrote “Thirty and Thriving” when I was 28 years old. I was in my childhood bedroom and I was feeling behind all of my peers. I’m at an age where most people begin to get married and have children and begin new chapters of their lives, as a woman and an artist, I found this period of my life to be extremely challenging. I felt incredibly lost, and confused and wondered if I should give up. Writing this song helped me find self-acceptance in spite of the pressures and unrealistic expectations women in today’s society feel.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my work is being able to create it and share it with others. I love creating art with my friends and watching them in their element.
What book should every artist read?
I think everyone is inspired by different things. Reading books that interest you will inspire you the most. If you don’t like the book, don’t be afraid to put it down and try another.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
The greatest lesson I learned so far is that no one really cares, so be yourself, do the things you love and don’t worry about others around you. Your true friends will support you and that’s all you need.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I would tell myself that it’s not embarrassing to like something, it’s not embarrassing to be good at something and to not worry so much about people around you.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
If I were a book I’d call it “The Hart of The River”. It would be a family story with a romance plot. I’ve always really liked my last name and it would be a play on that. Also, it sounds cool??
What’s next for Sam Hart in the last months of 2023?
I’ll be releasing a few more songs, snuggling with my dog, cooking with my boyfriend and trying to get Taylor Swift Eras Tour Toronto tickets (somehow!!)
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favortie healthy food is arugula, I feel like it goes with everything. Especially a beet salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
I LOVE a smash burger.
How would you explain your fashion style?
I would explain my fashion style to be colourful and classic.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is the first crisp fall breeze, walking with someone you love with a warm drink in your hand.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I want to meet Taylor Swift. She is such a versatile songwriter and truly feel like she could write in any genre and be successful. I’ve been a fan of hers since her debut album and the release of “Tim McGraw” and her songwriting only gets better and better. Folklore has become my most favourite album.
Best advice ever given?
You can do anything you set your mind to, all you have to do is start.
Favorite song? Why?
I have so many favourite songs! It’s impossible to pick just one. BUT I love singing Gravity by Sara Bareilles.
What do you think of Social Media?
I find social media to be a great outlet for independent artists of all kinds. I think it can be used as a really fun creative outlet. With that said, social media can be very harmful to a lot of people and can be used negatively. I wish it was a more all-around positive space.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram and on TikTok @samanthanicolehart
Book: The Deverill Chronicles
Quote: “Live, Love, Laugh” – said only at all the wrong times.
Movie: Harry Potter Film Series
Tv Series: The Vampire Diaries and New Girl
Favorite Food: Pasta
Travel Destination: Scotland
Sports Team: My dad said I should say the LA Dodgers
Photo Credit: Nolan Begley @nlnbegley
