Meet Samantha Hunt
The Sound Collaborative is so excited to have Samantha Hunt join its Board of Directors.
“Hello, I’m Samantha Hunt, currently of the Beaver Lake region. I have two beautiful creations, and three fur babies. For the past 5 years I’ve been working at a learning center for children that my kids have been attending. If you had asked me 8 years ago if I would be doing so, I would’ve told you you were crazy. But it has been the most satisfying journeys I’ve been on yet.
On top of that, I actively perform music in various locations all over NWA. I’m originally from a small town named Arkansas City, KS—yes, I’m almost certain there are large towns there, too—and moved here “temporarily” in 2009.
I have always been fairly artistic, whether it be writing, drawing, or painting. Music and my imagination was always there.
What really got me interested in performing music was Garth Brooks. No lie! He gave his heart and soul, and I thought that was the coolest. My early years of “musical training” consisted of car sing alongs, school choirs, and 7th grade guitar lessons. In college I was actually rejected from the choir program because I didn’t blend well enough with the others. That’s ok, I still had my guitar.
My mother has a beautiful singing voice, and I recall being in awe watching the way her hands moved over the piano keys. I was so jealous my elder sister got to take piano lessons, while I was stuck with other activities.
My dad loved Elvis, and would sing along to the rock n’ roll—not where I got it from, if you were wondering. It wasn’t until catfish season by the river with family, that I finally found my audience. There, I always had full attention of some of the bestest good ol’ boys around, a few forms of Beer Lt, a campfire, and shooting stars.
After moving from home, bouncing around a tiny bit, and being still long enough here, I had my first performance opportunity. And I honestly only got up on stage for a dare—and $100 bucks. My grand appearance in NWA was in the middle of my second shift ever, training to be a server at a local restaurant.
Not long after that, I was graciously allowed by local musicians, Jeff Fox, to sing 3 songs on his breaks. I would have to write chords on my arm because he wouldn’t allow me to bring up sheet music—THANK YOU FOR THAT. It has been such a wild ride since then.
I started out so green, I feel like NWA has watched me grow up. It has treated me so kindly, I wish to return the favor by offering my love, kindness, and art in any way I can.
While I am currently focusing mostly on solo music for the moment—until recording originals—I have had the delight of performing in a few bands that have honestly taught me how to “music,” including Honey Shuffle, with Zach Reeves, Jacob Campbell, and Patti Steel. Zach Reeves was my first true band mate. We began because we just loved it and he held this little KS sunflower blossom.
Then there was The #SugarDaddies with Jimi Gibbons and Danny Lee. Last, P.S.S. <3 with Patti Steel and Sarah Loethen. My mind is honestly blown all the time how lucky I am to have been performing for NWA for almost 14 years now. I look forward to many more years ahead.
I’m thrilled to be a part of The Sound Collaborative because, looking back, I’ve always wanted to make this world a better place. I’m particularly thrilled to help clear a path to any kids who were told they didn’t sound right, or who couldn’t afford the equipment. Music is therapy, and everyone deserves access.
Over the years I’ve managed and coordinated a numerous amount of wonderful events and people. I trust my near 25 years of “Jack of all Trades” experience has genuinely prepared me for this role.
Music is beautiful, it’s universal, and it’s life changing. Without music, I believe this world would be lost. There isn’t a single inch on this planet you won’t find it. It’s in the wind, a birds song, and most definitely in our souls. It is an honor to help give access, and to share this gift to the world.
Lastly, another thing I believe is that it’s best to leave things better than you found them, and with the Sound Collaborative Project, we are giving people the opportunity to do so.”
The Sound Collaborative received its official 501c3 approval on Christmas Eve! We’re hosting our first ever fundraising event on NWA Gives Day, April 6th. Every dollar you give will bring musicians one step closer to collaboration in Northwest Arkansas.
Want to help move the project forward another way? Please share about this project with everyone you know—and if you can provide connections, financial resources, physical space, a special skill, or want to lend your support in some other way—please reach out to us using the contact form in our menu.