Sam Hart is a Canadian singer-songwriter who blends cinematic and pop sounds infused with a sweet tone with a similar sound to artists like Sara Bareilles, Kina Grannis and Lizzy McAlpine. The latest single, “Thirty and Thriving”, serves as a poignant anthem for anyone navigating the complexities of coming of age in the modern world.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Sam about the new music, choosing a favorite song of all time, dream collabs and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Can you choose a favorite song of all time? 

I have so many favorite songs! I would say my favorite songs to sing are both Gravity by Sara Bareilles and Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Judy Garland. My more recent favorite songs to listen to are Happiness by Taylor Swift and “Killer” by Phoebe Bridgers. 

What about “Thirty and Thriving” makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release? 

I think what makes me most proud about “Thirty and Thriving” is the fact that I found the courage to release it. Writing vulnerable lyrics is really amazing for healing and working through confusing times, but actually releasing it and letting everyone else hear it can be really scary! Yes, a personal goal of mine, for this release, was to embrace the topic of the song and to be open and honest about talking about it with others. It turns out it’s a very relatable feeling! 

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going? 

Lots of things inspire me to write music. Sometimes it’s working through a personal experience and sometimes it’s a line in a movie that makes me start writing. Working on these projects with my creative friends and seeing everything come together motivates me to keep going. My friends are incredible artists and working with them is my most favorite thing to do. 

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? 

I would want to collaborate with Taylor Swift because I want to experience her songwriting process. I know I would learn so much from here. 

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists? 

The last song I listened to was “Expiry Date” by my friend VIBI! My all-time favorite artists are Sara Bareilles, Taylor Swift and VIBI.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected? 

My Instagram, come say hi! @samanthanicolehart 

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways? 

Thank you so much for your interest in “Thrity and Thirivng,” I appreciate it so much! Yes, I’ll be releasing another single in September. It’s called “Waiting On That Text.” I’m so excited about it!