Local celebrity singer Samantha Cole will host a free variety show on Friday, July 29 from 6 to 8PM at Manna in Water Mill. Voice coach Samantha works with studentsto prepare them for future songwriting and singing careers. The variety show at Manna will feature five to six of Samantha’s top students performing live acoustic sets outside in the courtyard under the stars.
Curious to find out more, we asked Samantha some questions.
How did you get started as a voice coach?
I went to school for voice and business not to mention I love music and singing! Since I have over twenty years of experience as a professional singer songwriter and producer, I thought it would be a great way to utilize all I have learned. I started with a handful of students and I now have more than 50 students from all over the tri-state and Long Island areas; some of my students travel an hour to train with me. It’s a great feeling being able to give back to the young budding stars and share what I have learned from the best in the business, including David Foster, Nile Rodgers, Richard Marx, Diane Warren, Babyface, Boyz II Men, and Robin Thicke.
What was the most important thing you learned your singing career that you are able to share with your students?
You need to be a dedicated and hardworking driven artist. I can't express how much practice and hard work pays off. There is no easy road; it takes many hours in the studio performing and writing. Warming up and keeping your voice in shape is so important. The dream of being an overnight sensation is unrealistic. There is a lot more that goes on behind the scenes that no one sees, a lot of rejection and failure along the way. You may not always have a hit, but success is measured in different ways. Being able to do what you love and be successful is an amazing blessing and gift that should never be taken for granted.
What can we expect from the young talent that will be performing at Friday’s variety show?
You can expect amazing voices; great songwriters and in some cases new talent that is growing as we speak. There will be covers and some great originals performed. All performances will be stripped down for an acoustic show so you can hear the raw voice, which is the best way to hear music. Just natural talent, live.
Is of the talent local?
Yes, there are a couple of students from Long Island and some who have traveled from Connecticut. I have an 8 year old named Shelby Ann Cohen from Moriches who is my youngest student. She is very serious, has great drive, and has a very bright future if she sticks with it. I also have an amazing singer songwriter from Ronkonkoma named Deanna Demola who is 18 years old. She writes and plays guitar, and we are actually producing her EP with superstar producer Jimmy Greco of Airgo entertainment. (Selena Gomez, J-Lo, Carlos Santana.)
Do you have the next Taylor Swift or Justin Bieber on your hands?
I have so many super talented singers and songwriters. I definitely have a few superstars if they work hard and stay extremely dedicated and driven. I am actually currently managing one of my artists. We have her working with two producers and Shaggy’s camp as well. Her name is Marissa Detlor, and she will also be performing Friday night. Definitely star potential.
What is your connection to the Hamptons?
I was born and raised out in Southampton. My grandparents owned the famous Cilli farm in Sag Harbor and my parents are originally from Southampton and East Hampton. I still split time between Southampton and my home in CT.
Tell us about your favorite memory from your performing days.
I loved touring all over the world and meeting some amazing fans from countries I would never have dreamed to been able to visit. It was a lot of work, but when I look back I realize how lucky I really was to have all the opportunities that were given to me. Securing a top forty song and top five with international reggae superstar Shaggy were among some of my greatest memories and experiences.
Do we need tickets to Friday’s show?
No, it's free. Come down and enjoy a great laid back acoustic vibe and some amazing food by chef Marco. He outdoes himself every time. Not to mention check out some of the future rising stars on their way up!
- Manna [Official]