Sam reveals that a specific moment inspired the song. I had spent the majority of the year on the road and had just returned to Nashville following a lengthy run of gigs when I learned that there had been a shooting near my home. I was home alone all day after an incredible journey to areas that felt so different from where I grew up in New Hampshire, and I began strumming. The song just flowed from there, and I believe that’s where the simple, direct lyrics and message came from—just trying to be present and capture my emotions in a very divided society.”
Sam Robbins’ journey as a singer-songwriter
Album after album, Sam Robbins takes you along on his evolution as a singer-songwriter. From his time on NBC’s The Voice to graduating from Berklee College of Music, he’s navigated the Nashville music scene and beyond, refining his craft while performing over 200 shows annually. The experiences gained while working with veterans at Music Therapy Retreats have deeply enriched his songwriting, allowing you to connect with the stories that emerge from both joy and struggle.
Overview: As you research Robbins’ journey, you’ll discover a musician shaped not only by his formative years but also by the lessons learned through travel and human connection. His impressive accolades, including winning the 2021 Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk contest and being named a “Most Wanted to Return” artist at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, showcase the rising star’s profound impact on audiences. Each song in “So Much I Still Don’t See” resonates with authenticity, as Robbins masterfully weaves genuine experiences into melodies you won’t forget.
Location and Environment of Recording
If you’re a fan of immersive soundscapes, you’ll appreciate that Sam Robbins recorded his new single, “What A Little Love Can Do,” in an old church in Springfield, MA. This unique setting not only adds a layer of warmth to the music but also encapsulates the humility and introspection that Robbins evokes through his heartfelt songwriting. The ambiance of the church allows the listener to feel the depth of his experiences as he traverses the expansive landscapes of life and travel.
Instrumentation and the Sonic Landscape
For those who enjoy nuanced musical textures, “What A Little Love Can Do” features a compelling sonic landscape that beautifully combines soft piano and acoustic guitar. The gentle introduction played by Seth Glier on the piano sets a reflective tone that complements Robbins’ warm vocals, creating a captivating atmosphere right from the start.
A key aspect of the single’s sonic profile is its sparing yet effective instrumentation. The song centers around Robbins’ signature sound, which incorporates touches of upright bass, keyboard elements, and electric guitars while maintaining the core essence of his solo acoustic guitar performance. This blend highlights his journey as an artist and offers a perfect balance of introspection and warmth, inviting you to dive deeper into the story being told.
Inspirations from 70’s Singer-Songwriters
Any music lover will appreciate how Sam Robbins draws inspiration from the classic 70’s singer-songwriters. As he immerses himself in this iconic era’s sound, you’ll hear echoes of legends like James Taylor and Jim Croce throughout his work. These influences not only shape his melodies but also guide his heartfelt storytelling, making his music resonate deeply with your own life experiences.
Personal Childhood Experiences
For Sam Robbins, childhood memories play a significant role in shaping his artistry. Growing up in New Hampshire, you can imagine him taking weekend hiking trips to the White Mountains with his father, the truck filled with a collection of 70’s singer-songwriter CDs. These adventures forged a deep connection between the stunning landscapes and the music that accompanied them, creating a foundation that influences his sound today.
For instance, Robbins’ recollections of those journeys influenced his songwriting style and emotional depth. Robbins intertwined the landscapes he explored with the background music, creating a backdrop for his creative expression. When you listen to “What a Little Love Can Do,” you can feel that sense of exploration and introspection, as if you’re joining him on those meaningful trips filled with laughter, connection, and the beauty of nature.
The Voice and Berklee College of Music
Clearly, Sam Robbins’ journey in music took a significant turn after his appearance on NBC’s The Voice in 2018. Following this experience, he graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2019, equipping himself with the skills and knowledge necessary for his blossoming songwriting career. His transition to Nashville marked a new chapter, where he honed his craft through extensive touring and performing, leading to the heartfelt music you can explore today.
Recognition and Awards in the Folk Music Community
For emerging artists like Sam, gaining recognition in the folk music scene can be a pivotal step in your career. Robbins has received accolades, including the 2021 Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk contest winner and the 2022 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival “Most Wanted to Return” artist. These accomplishments highlight his undeniable talent and the impact of his music within the community.
The depth of Sam Robbins’ connection with the folk music community truly shines through his accolades. Winning the 2021 Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk contest not only showcases his exceptional songwriting talents but also sets the stage for his ongoing journey as a musician. Furthermore, being named a “Most Wanted to Return” artist at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival underscores the resonating power of his performances and the importance of his storytelling. With over 200 shows per year, you can see how Robbins is becoming a cherished voice in folk music, inviting you to join him on this path.
Inspirations
Inspirations from Marcus Aurelius’s “Meditations” profoundly shaped Sam Robbins’ songwriting for his new album, So Much I Still Don’t See. The philosophies of stoicism, particularly those revolving around inner peace and self-reflection, offer a backdrop that resonates throughout his music. As you listen to Robbins’ heartfelt lyrics, you might find echoes of Aurelius’s timeless wisdom, enabling you to connect with your own journey and experiences.
Exploration of Stoicism in Songwriting
Songwriting becomes a vehicle for exploration, inviting you to research the calming principles of stoicism that Robbins absorbed from Meditations. Robbins’ thoughtful lyrics encourage you to pause and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments, even amidst the chaos of life. As you listen, these principles may help you find clarity and peace in your own experiences.
Exploration of stoicism in Robbins’ songwriting gives each track a sense of depth and thoughtful resonance. By applying the lessons learned from Aurelius, you can appreciate how Robbins captures the essence of fleeting moments and translates them into music filled with grace. Each song serves as an invitation to reflect on your own life, helping you to find strength through vulnerability and connection with others. So Much I Still Don’t See gives you the chance to embrace the struggles and joys that come with your journey.
Work with Music Therapy Retreats
Now, as you explore Sam Robbins’ journey, it’s imperative to highlight his inspiring work with Music Therapy Retreats. This initiative brings songwriters together with veterans, allowing them to share their often unheard stories. Through this collaboration, Robbins has explored deeper emotions in his music, drawing on the poignant narratives of those who have served. Each interaction has shaped his songwriting, enriching his artistic expression and providing profound insights into the human experience.
Emotional Depth in Songwriting Through Veterans’ Stories
With his experiences at Music Therapy Retreats, Robbins has unlocked a new level of emotional depth in his songwriting. By connecting with veterans and understanding their journeys, you can hear the layered storytelling in his music, transforming personal experiences into powerful songs.
Therapy through music has allowed Robbins to absorb the unique and moving stories shared by veterans. These experiences resonate deeply in his songwriting, enabling you to connect with the emotions behind each note and lyric. The stories of resilience, hope, and human connection he encounters not only enrich his art but also foster a sense of empathy and understanding, making each song a reflection of shared experiences on life’s journey. You’ll feel the impact of these heartfelt narratives in tracks like “What a Little Love Can Do.”
Inspiration Behind the Song
Clearly, the inspiration for “What a Little Love Can Do” emerged from a poignant moment in Nashville, where Sam Robbins grappled with the shock of a shooting in the city. This heavy news compelled him to reflect on the state of the nation, leading to the heartfelt lyrics that open the song. With each strum, Robbins captures the essence of his travels across the U.S., illustrating the deeper connections forged when we truly engage with one another amidst life’s chaos.
Unique sonic elements and live performance influences
Live, you can feel the warmth and intimacy of Robbins’ sound, especially with “What a Little Love Can Do,” which is uniquely framed by soft piano moments played by Seth Glier. This blend of acoustic guitar and piano not only reflects the live energy of Robbins’ performances but also brings a unique texture to the track, making it an ideal introduction to his album.
Elements of Robbins’ live shows shine through in the song, showcasing how he masterfully combines warmth and vulnerability in his performances. The interwoven melodies of piano and guitar create a rich soundscape, echoing the connections he has made on the road. You’ll find that this collaboration perfectly embodies the essence of intimacy and storytelling that defines his music and invites listeners into his journey with every note.
Sam Robbins Unveils Heartfelt New Single ‘What A Little Love Can Do’ with Captivating Video
Drawing together elements of personal experience and universal themes, Sam Robbins invites you on a journey of connection and reflection with his stirring new single, “What A Little Love Can Do.” This track, enriched by a beautiful video, embodies the warmth and depth of his songwriting, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking solace and understanding in their own life. As you look into this heartfelt piece, you’ll find yourself resonating with the emotions and stories that Robbins so skillfully conveys.
https://open.spotify.com/track/5FbocpRpgr1eiAIV7Nj7G3?si=5bb4b8c050cb47d9
https://music.apple.com/us/album/what-a-little-love-can-do/1789206788?i=1789206790
Tour Dates here: https://samrobbinsmusic.com/tour