Sam Loid
It’s often said that music is evolving. Genre fluidity, for one, is more prevalent than ever. If you’re looking for someone to epitomize this, I recommend looking no further than Sam Loid. Based in New Orleans, the 25-year-old artist has managed to produce an incredibly versatile discography with only three songs out. Though he’s been writing music since he’s 16, Loid made his professional debut just last year with “Wasted Time.” 2020 also saw the release of “BNT,” and 2021 even has a Loid single already: “Green,” a somber, soulful, acoustic yet poppy hit about seeing an ex move on. “BNT,” on the other hand, is much more chill and hip hop, whereas “Wasted Time” is a healthy blend of the qualities of both “Green” and “BNT.” In sum, it really does seem like Loid can do it all, and we can’t wait to watch him do, well, just that. We recently spoke with the up-and-comer about his inspirations, what the future holds, and more!
Let’s begin with an introduction – How did you get started making music?
Well, I guess it all started when I was a kid. I’d been singing since I was 4 years old and started writing when I was 16. It’s funny - I started writing by listening to beats on YouTube and it slowly developed into actual songs. It wasn’t until I went to Howard University where I began collaborating with producers on campus and making full songs. It was such a new and cool experience for me. Being able to collaborate with other musicians and artists really gave me the courage to tell my story.
We’re absolutely in love with your sound! Who are some of the artists that have inspired this musical style?
Thank you! I draw a lot of inspiration from my childhood. I grew up in New Orleans singing in the choir and listening to a lot of R&B and Gospel music. I stayed listening to the likes of Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, Omarion, Usher, and some newer artists like Frank Ocean and Lucky Daye.
You only made your Spotify debut in 2020. What made last year the right time to start releasing your songs?
I think 2020 was a lot for everyone. Mentally, it was a huge strain on me, and in a time where we were inside all day and trying to find our new normal, music helped me feel whole when I felt like I was losing a part of myself. If I’m being honest I even contemplated releasing music due to all the uncertainty and insecurity I was battling. However, I had to remind myself that I HAD to share my gift. It was my sole responsibility to the world. God blessed me with something great and if I didn’t share it I knew I would’ve regretted it.
With that said, “Green” is phenomenal. Walk us through is the meaning behind the track.
“Green” is definitely one of my favorites! Simply put, it’s about jealousy. I wrote the song in 2019 with my best friend Ron and he had the idea to write a song about being jealous. I thought it was different and relatable. I’ve heard some songs about jealousy but never like this. It’s a cry for help. I sing about being jealous of that “other person” but mostly realizing that you’re becoming someone else that you never wanted to be. It's lyrically driven to help the listener understand that we control who we are but sometimes it’s difficult to do so when you realize you're becoming someone with traits you never wanted to have. I think we can all agree that jealousy doesn’t look good on anyone. We really wanted the emphasis to be completely on the lyrics as we take pride in the story that’s being told throughout the song.
Besides our current one, which decade do you feel has the best music?
The best decade would have to be the 80s. Hands down they had all the classics! From Michael Jackson to Whitney Houston to Luther Vandross, it was nothing but pure emotion, amazing songwriting, and true fearlessness. Some of the best records today are sampled from the 80s.
Which is the most meaningful line that you’ve ever written?
The most meaningful line I wrote would have to be “know it gets hard but push anyway/follow that passion and put away that pride/ I promise you it’ll be alright to follow that dream/“ from an upcoming song I wrote called “Dreams.”
What inspires you to make music?
I’m inspired by so many things. My music comes from everything around me but, mostly from my close friends and family. Their stories are wild and full of drama, but they always have an interesting learning lesson which makes for great songs. You know, whenever I sit down and think “where do I start when I write a song,” I think back to my most recent conservations with my friends. They’re the best inspiration.
How does the typical Sam Loid song come together?
Well, whenever I’m creating a song I always start with the melody. That’s most important to me. When a producer sends over a beat I listen to the track and whatever vibe I get helps me produce the melody. Then from there comes the lyrics. Usually, the more I feel the track the easier the lyrics come. I start piecing together what the song should be about and what mood I get from the track. I always say the story is already there, it’s just up to me to find it and bring it to life. Then from there, I’ll begin to add my harmonies and backgrounds or whatever I feel helps bring the song to life.
Has the pandemic affected your music-making process at all?
It has but it hasn’t. Haha. I do miss going to the studio and working on songs there. Now, I pretty much do everything from my bedroom. The songs I have out now I wrote in my room. If I’m writing a song myself- I’m typically by myself when I write them, whether that be in a studio, bedroom, or out and about as I casually jot lyrics or concepts down on my phone. However, I will say, since the pandemic I’ve heard more songs in my dreams. I’ll wake up and quickly record a voice note of lyrics or a melody and try to put it into a song. That always gets me excited.
Do you feel that your sound has already changed since you began?
Oh for sure! I’m always evolving and experimenting with my sound. When I first started releasing music in 2017- it sounded nothing like what I have today. It was driven more so to a pop/R&B alternative “in your face” sound and now it still has that R&B feel but, more intimate and lyrically driven.
You’re in charge of a 3-day music festival. Who are you choosing to headline each day and why?
WOAH - by the way I love festivals. It’s something about it that makes it special. I would definitely have Pharrell, Beyoncé, and Frank Ocean. I LOVE THEM!
What are some of the things you enjoy doing outside of the studio?
I really enjoy roller skating! It’s one of my favorite things to do. It’s something about it that makes me feel free. I can clear my head, get in some good exercise and enjoy a dope playlist. I also love to go hiking and just being in nature, especially if it’s near water. I can spend all day in nature.
“Green” Cover Artwork / Click to Listen!
Who do you owe your biggest thanks to?
My mom gets my biggest thanks. Without her and GOD, I wouldn’t be where I am. She has supported me since forever and is my biggest fan. Her wisdom and love she shares with me have given me the confidence to be whatever I want to be and to do it without shrinking myself. I love you, mommy!
What can fans expect from you in 2021?
Yess 2021!! Fans can expect my debut EP! I’M SOO EXCITED! This has been in the works since 2019 and nows the time I finally get to share it with the world. I can’t wait for people to hear it!
When Sam Loid makes it to LA, ___________.
When Sam Loid makes it to LA, he will have the ability to truly give back, he will make a Grammy award-winning album (manifesting now), and will be able to comfortably create a lifestyle that gives him support, love, and endless inspiration to make music and change lives.