Sam Gray

Sam Gray

Sam Gray is a singer and songwriter from the United States, described as a vaudeville performer. He first appears on the scene in 2011 with the Radio 2 play-listed debut single Cartwheel Queen. He is based in Manchester, having moved there after growing up in Hull and playing in bands on Humberside.

Career

Gray spends 2011 as a special guest on the sold-out Overtones UK tour, performing at venues including the London Palladium and to audiences of about 40,000 people. His album Brighter Day reaches the Top 10 singer/songwriter albums on iTunes, and he receives radio support from more than 40 stations. He is also the subject of a Channel 4 television documentary.

He tours more than 70 Caffe Nero outlets nationwide, and later shifts towards a more soulful sound. His single This Girl, released in August, draws on Motown, blue-eyed soul and pop, and attracts more than a quarter of a million YouTube views.

Writing and collaborations

While based in Manchester, Gray is discovered by drummer Steve White, who becomes his manager, producer and general overseer. White and his team secure Gray a publishing deal with Notting Hill Music and a recording contract with Transmission Recordings. Gray also works in the studio with producer Brendan Lynch.

He is also an accomplished songwriter, writing material for Abi Phillips, who appears on The Voice and Hollyoaks.

Later touring and releases

Gray is the special guest on Peter Andre’s Up Close and Personal tour, which runs to more than 30 dates nationwide. A new single is planned alongside that tour, and his album Too Much Of A Good Thing is set for release in early 2013.

Style

His music is described as a blend of Motown and soul with modern textures and a contemporary feel, with references to Otis Redding, Elvis Costello and the Style Council.