We at The Independence Hotel value the arts in our community, which is why we love to feature local performers whenever we can. One artist that we are lucky enough to call a frequent performer at our restaurant, Territory, is Samantha Shoffner, singer extraordinaire and overall gem of a person. Samantha has loved music for as long as she can remember. As a child, she and her father would frequently drive to and from California for his work singing Rascal Flatts and memorizing every word. Music has always made Samantha feel understood, and nothing brings her more joy than being able to share that connection with her listeners. Check out our interview with Samantha below, and then reserve your table at Territory before spots fill up to hear her perform!
Samantha has been honing her craft as a singer and performer for 10 years.
Samantha rocks covers and writes compelling original pieces.
- What inspires you?
Samantha: One of the most inspiring things for me is seeing other artists in their element, embracing their passions. Pure, genuine passion is something incredibly hard to find, so when I see others who feel so strongly about what they do, I am always moved and inspired to continue my journey with new perspectives.
- What is your favorite song to sing (both of yours, and also of all time)?
Samantha: My favorite songs to sing truly depend on the day and what I’m feeling. For me, my all time favorites are anything Adele, Amy Winehouse, Rascal Flatts, Lady Gaga or Meghan Trainor. Of my own songs, some of my favorites to sing are yet to be released… I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.
Samantha covers one of her favorites (and knocks it out of the park)
- If your fans could know one thing about you, what would you want that to be?
Samantha: To my supporters, I want you to know how much gratitude and appreciation I have for your presence in my life. There is truly nothing more rewarding that being able to share things so dear to me with the world and getting to see smiling faces on the other end. Also, thank you for embracing the fact that I can be a total goofball sometimes.
- Do you have any advice for up and coming singers who get stage fright?
Samantha: Yes! I’ve been performing for about 10 years now and I can truthfully encourage you to embrace the nerves. I still get them every time I walk on stage. I just use them as fuel now to get crowds excited! The reality is, it is a bit scary to put yourself out there! You will make mistakes and face learning curves, but I promise it gets better and no one really notices the little things as much as you do!
- Do you write your own music? If so, what is that process like? If not, how do you go about choosing the right music?
Samantha: Song writing is a huge part of what I do for many reasons! It is truly the best way I know how to express myself and has become a form of therapy for me. The process is always different, but it typically starts with an idea or concept and me humming a melody. From there, it all goes into my voice memos and becomes a new project! Choosing the right songs outside of my own all comes down to what songs make me feel the most. A good artists doesn’t have to sing the loudest, they just have to move you!
Check out Samantha’s original work
- What is the story behind your IG name?
Samantha: My Instagram name (xosamgirl) comes from a childhood nickname of mine! It started off as “Sami Girl” and somehow lead to my friends calling me “Sam Girl”. The nickname stuck after it resurfaced and it has become a big part of my brand!
- If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
Samantha: The lack of support for one another! The music industry is highly competitive and it can be terribly disappointing to see our community dragging each other down. Spread kindness!
8. How did Covid-19 change your life as a performer?
Samantha: It was extremely difficult, as it was for the whole world. Adapting to this massive life change was heartbreaking and very hard on my mental health. At the end of the day, however, I would do it again if it meant I could keep everyone healthy and safe. Overall, I have a much deeper appreciation for what a privilege performing for the world really is.
An avid performer, Samantha is ready to be back on stage sharing music with others.
Having performed all over Oregon and beyond, here she sings at Jubilee on Main Street in Independence!
- You’ll have stayed and performed at the Independence several times at this point, do you have a favorite local spot you like to visit when you’re here?
Samantha: So many! But you’ll likely find me drinking chai lattes at The Brew because they are THE BEST… Trust me!
- What is the best way for people to support local artists during quarantine?
Samantha: The best way to support local artists for free is to spread the word! I cannot stress this enough. It is so easy to share their posts and music. This goes way further than you’d think and it wont cost you a penny! Spread some love, we appreciate it greatly!
- Is there anything else you’d like to share with our guests?
Samantha: I am so excited to see all of your friendly faces again soon!
Check out Sam’s work: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Instagram
