Samantha Hakim, 16 year-old singer, songwriter, musician born and raised in Virginia. With success as a pianist and a singer, coupled with her desire to become a professional songwriter, and musician. Sammy was inspired to study additional instruments including violin, guitar and ukulele. These instruments are highly influential in how Sammy composes and arranges her original music. Sammy began composing and arranging songs when she was 13. Sammy’s songs are inspired by her friends and real life situations. Her music reflects influences of Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer, Taylor Swift, Sammy’s and Ed Sheeran. Her soulful voice pays allegiance to Kelly Clarkson, Avril Lavigne and Carrie Underwood. Sammy, aligning herself with one of her music mentors in describing herself as an artist quotes, “I am like Elvis Costello, I write what I want, pop, county, rock, or whatever I feel. Writing and performing music is one of my deepest passions in life.” This drive and determination inspires Sammy to focus on a deeper understanding of her world and her relationships with people to create her unique brand of pop music that touches people at an emotional level seldom accomplished by young songwriters. Sammy has performed her music at a variety of local venues including Jammin Java, The Soundry. City Sweets, Café Amouri, The Vienna Green, Growlers, Union Jacks and other events throughout the region to promote singles from her debut EP, “Locked You Out”, released on 10/28/2011, her single “Fearless” released 5/28/2012 and her new single “Mark Me” released 9/17/2012. “Mark Me” is getting adds on various radio stations and is #18 on NMW Top 40 Charts. Even before the album has officially been released, record executives and management firms have responded with enthusiasm, eager to receive the final product. Robert Camacho, of RC Management in Nashville, TN has this to say referencing Sammy’s songs. “I am listening as I write and can clearly say the songwriting is outstanding regardless of the writer’s age. Her voice is very elegant and poised beyond her years.” Sammy is a member of Songwriters of Washington and Washington Area Music Association, Nashville Songwriters Association International, and WAMA. She continues to develop her craft by taking weekly piano, guitar, vocal lessons and songwriting courses through Berklee School of Music. Sammy’s other interest include, playing softball, basketball and spending time with her friends. As a final testament to Sammy’s natural aptitude and discipline, she is an honor student.