We had the good fortune of connecting with Samuel Cormier and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Samuel, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I love to sing and play music and I don’t want to do anything else. Its a combination of delusion, clinical stubbornness, and a belief in myself. I mean, an artistic career in a lot of ways is selfish. A lot of times my other relationships with family and friends take a back seat. I’m getting better at carving out that time for my family and for others, but it’s still something I struggle with. An artistic career can be really scary, and isolating, and lonely at times. But, it’s really come about organically. I moved back to Dallas in 2022, and started doing open mics. At the time, I just knew I had always wanted to make music and be a musical artist. There were so many years before that of studying other things, and doing jobs for other people. I feel like I really didn’t live my own life until I decided to pursue music. I remember being very scared at the beginning. It’s crazy to think that now, that’s how I support myself. I think what keeps me going is playing live shows. I believe that by being honest with myself and with others, by sharing my stories and by being emotionally vulnerable, I can encourage other people to be more open and present versions of themselves. But, if I’m being honest, having a creative career is just plain, old fun.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been a singer/songwriter, entertainer, musical artist for about 2 years professionally. I write songs that I need to hear. My music has been a journey of self-discovery for me. Not only discovering my own identity, but realizing that I am capable. I’m inspired to share my stories of the queer experience. At my most recent show, I met someone that was going through some struggles around their sexuality, and it was really amazing to be able to share a song that helped me overcome the fear of admitting who I was. It’s crazy how songs become bigger than you. But, I think its really important to be honest and vulnerable in my music. I hope that my storytelling and introspection set my music apart. But in reality, I think that my job is to recognize the connections and similarities among all people. We are all just out here trying our best. And, life can be a struggle sometimes. I really feel like this career path is so confusing. There isn’t really a rubric and a lot of the work I have done has been an exercise in humility– in admitting that I don’t know something and I need help. I think it is also important to be a part of your community. To contribute and support other people. I would love to see a vibrant arts community flourish in Dallas, and I think the talent and the people are here. I have been so inspired by all of the amazing artists I have met here so far. I have been most recently inspired to work on my production skills. Not only to produce my own music, but to help other queer artists bring their music to life. I think there is something so special about having collaborators that see you and celebrate you. And, I think there is a real lack of that in the music industry today.
I think at the end of the day, my brand is based on making people happy. Although my songs have been known to bring on the water works, I love bringing people joy. My concerts are little introspective emo dance parties, and I love sharing that joy and excitement with people.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I think first stop would have to be Wild Detectives. There’s always a great show or event going on there.
Definitely a couple hikes at the Oak Cliff nature preserve, followed by a trip to Peaberry Coffee right around the corner. One of the best Iced Chai Lattes and some of the best espresso.
My favorite splurge recently was Sister Italian restaurant. You have to try the octopus!
And then maybe a day trip to AA vintage for some shopping. I got one of my favorite stage costumes there. Followed by a cannoli from Jimmy’s.
Finish off a trip to the Texas Theater for a movie or one of the ambient music nights. Really anything. It’s such a cool building and there is always something fun going on.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shoutout to Pascale Hall, the founder and owner of Opening Bell Coffee. Her dedication to keep her business open to provide a place for live music in Dallas is inspiring. I met most of music network through the folks there and even got the opportunity to record with local musicians through my work there.
Website: https://muelmusic.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samcormier_music/
Image Credits
Alvaro Arroliga Grayson Taylor Dimension Visuals