By PATRICK O’HEFFERNAN
Samantha Fish is all over the internet now. Seems I can’t log on to any social media and not get rocked by her songs. Her latest track is “Sweet Southern Sounds” off her upcoming album “Paper Doll” due April 25.
Fish has caught a lot of fans over the years. Being nominated for a Grammy has a lot to do with that, as does her great 2023 collaboration album “Death Wish Blues” with outlaw musician Jesse Drayton.
I think the reason Fish seems inescapable these days is that she’s one of the most skilled and powerful guitarists, singers, songwriters and performers in the rock and blues rock space, and her talent bleeds into several genres.
No matter what your favorite style is, Fish’s music will grab you and never let you go. If you don’t believe me, just put on another recent single, “I Put a Spell on You,” a Screamin’ Jay Hawkins cover that she makes her very own.
Born in 1989 to a musical family in Kansas City, Missouri, Fish started playing drums as a child but switched to guitar at the age of 15, inspired by artists like Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the Rolling Stones. When she turned 18 and started performing locally, and it soon became apparent that she could put on an electrifying show. There was no stopping her.
Fish’s career took off rapidly, with her self-released debut album “Live Bait” in 2009 catching the attention of Ruf Records, a prominent blues label, and her first solo album Runaway in 2011 earned her the 2012 Blues Music Award for Best New Artist – not easy for a young woman. Since then, Fish has been prolific, releasing multiple albums and continuously evolving her sound. While often categorized as a blues artist, her music seamlessly blends elements of rock, country, funk, and even bluegrass, showcasing her versatility and unique style.
That style is apparent on “Death Wish Blues,” which spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The album has 13 high-powered songs that are relentless in their energy, their relevant lyrics, and their drive forward. Producer Jon Spencer has balanced Fish’s electrifying guitar and vocals with the down and dirty raw power of Drayton in an album that has no peer.
I especially like “Settle for Less,” which blends blues, unbelievable guitar riffs and a bit of country feel. Another song from the album, “Supadupabad” moves into frantic punk territory with a little pop. “Lover on the Side” is a total blues adventure that pits the two of them together in a unique collaboration.
And until her “Paper Doll” album hits the airwaves, check out “Sweet Southern Sounds” here:
