Sammy who was working as a social worker at the time, made the decision to pursue music full-time following the newfound popularity of the song that soon become a staple of modern era Island Sound. The Native-Kiwi-now-Los-Angeles-resident, Sammy J, got his big break via Youtube after his video for "Don't Say Goodbye" became a viral sensation, racking up over 10,000,000 plays. Sammy Johnson has been waving the flag for the Pacific Island sound and has quickly become a leader of the scene alongside new school artists like J Boog and veterans like Katchafire. The UC TheatreįACE MASK AND PROOF OF VACCINATION REQUIRED FOR ENTRY. Not too long after, a Hawaiian-based producer contacted him to work on an album and was offered a record deal with Island Empire Records, home to groups like Common Kings, Tenelle and Fiji.
Blending together island reggae, soul and jazz vibes with heartfelt lyrics, Sammy’s sound is exhilarating and intoxicating.
An Australian native, Sammy Johnson embraces his Maori and Polynesian roots to create positive and uplifting music. Somewhere between the charisma of Frank Sinatra, the empathetic tone of Bob Marley, and the smooth and sultry vocal runs of Lauryn Hill, lives the warm and kind voice of Sammy Johnson. Read about The UC Theatre's COVID-19 Protocols and check out FAQ's. 8:00pm 23:59:59 America/Los_Angeles Sammy Johnson FACE MASK AND PROOF OF VACCINATION REQUIRED FOR ENTRY.