Sam Doll Says It's "Your Turn" [Exclusive Interview]

Sam Doll Says It's "Your Turn"

12/11/2019

Hi Sam Doll, thanks for joining us! For readers who might not know you yet, how would you describe your music and style?
Hi! I would describe my style as pop -grunge -rock.

What made you decide to create music and become an artist in the first place?
I actually worked in the music business in Toronto for 5 years before deciding to quit and become a musician! Music was always something I loved, but I never considered seriously becoming in an artist until I got jealous of the artists I was working for - that in conjunction with realizing I was not built for a 9-5 job.

Who are your favourite artists at the moment?
I have been on a Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats TEAR this year. Them and Kim Petras I am also super obsessed with.

What can you tell us about your latest single: 'Your Turn'?
Your Turn is a song I wrote when my ex boyfriend viewed my profile on Linkedin... and I was just like... what is this bullshit? I wish it was the olden days when people couldn't hide behind social media, and if they wanted to call you, they HAD to call you, instead of leave ambiguous hints. I think a lot of people will get away with not showing they care if they can, and I don't do that.

How would you describe the work to someone who has never heard it?
I'd say it's like dreamy lyrical pop with a bit of an edge. Think Lana Del Rey meets Courtney Love (or at least that's what I'm going for!)

Could you expand further on the music video you shot for your latest single? (Behind the scenes details, symbolism etc)
The video is meant to represent the phases of a breakup -- being a mess, meeting up with your girlfriends, getting them to take care of you, indulging in self care, drinking your sorrows, and then getting on with your life. The song is basically about a someone who's tired of looking like a desperate loser and would like their ex to look like the desperate loser for a change, so even though in this video I'm clearly hurting and going through a rough time, I makes the choice not to give in and call my ex or play lame social media games because I deserve to be called. Hopefully, the message of the song and the video is to be strong and only put up with what you deserve. If someone wants you they can come get you, and if they don't, you'll be fine either way.

BTS - On the real, being a musician has so many costs, that I was determined to make a music video that told a story and added to the song, while being both cheap and visually pleasing. If you have a creative idea, I don't think you need to spend a lot of money to make effective visual content. This was shot in my living room with a cool light I bought on Amazon, my camera sitting on top of a pile of books, and my 2 friends hands using stuff I had around my house. Edited on iMovie. SOMEBODY STOP ME!

You recently were on tour supporting Prozzak on their Canada tour! Tell us about that experience and did you have a favourite city that you performed at on tour?
That experience was one of the best weeks of my life. I am so thankful to Prozzak for giving me my first taste of touring, they're pros they've been doing this for 20 + years - so this tour was a big boy tour and I was so lucky to be able to go. It's insane for an artist at my level to be playing shows like that. The venues were big, they were packed, and I, like everyone there, LOVE the band and love 90's nostalgia. As for favourite city, I love Canada so much (if I didn't live here I would move here it's legit my favourite place) - so every city was amazing. The Toronto show was extra fun because my family and friends were there

So what happens now? With the year coming to a close, do you get to enjoy a break or are things still as busy as ever?!
I'm chilling HARD for the Holidays! But back to the grind in January because money doesn't sleep baby! (Not like I'm making any yet, but I plan on it in 2020)

What other artists would you love to collaborate with and why?
Chris LaRocca is popping off right now! His songs are amazing, and he, like me, really makes sure his lyrics tell a story - we have the same producer so I think I can make this collab happen. Him, and Lady Gaga, because she is my Queen and I am her Little Monster.

Best music concert/performance/event you've attended and why?
It's a tie between The Rolling Stones and Jack White. The Rolling Stones were an emotional experience for me, as in, I cried the whole show. There's pictures. I was beside myself! Couldn't believe my eyes! And I don't think I've ever rocked out harder than Jack White - I love him and all his bands so it was hit after hit. It was the Blunderbus tour too so it was really beautifully done and at a smaller venue which I love.

What do you think has been the biggest challenge for you so far in your career?
Choosing to be an artist was definitely the hardest part because that comes with daily doubts, and it's really hard to psych yourself up sometimes. Always thinking someones better than you, no ones going to hear you, wonder why you're doing this. I think that's the hardest part to just shut that part of your brain up and convince yourself that you're not an idiot for being an adult artist.

Any more news we should know about?! What are your upcoming plans for the coming months and what can we expect to see?
I'm going to release an EP in early 2020 called "I Like My Men Rotten" which I'm really looking forward to. It will contain all the singles I put out in 2019 plus a few more HOT NEW TRACKS! And planning on doing a big showcase in Toronto in May, before kicking off a small Canadian tour in the summer!

Advice for aspiring artists and people wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Trust that what you're doing is good. I try not to worry about what people around me are doing because I literally wasn't built to do anything else. Even if it hurts, I'm going to keep doing it, so no point constantly questioning myself. Just be on your own team.

Thanks so much to Sam Doll for taking the time to answer our questions! Be sure to check her out using the links below.