Three-time Grammy-winning jazz sensation and 2025 Grammy nominee Samara Joy joined Linsey Davis to discuss her latest album, Portrait, marking her third studio release and showcasing her unique approach to jazz.
Known for bringing jazz to younger generations, Joy’s work bridges traditional sounds with fresh interpretations, encouraging new listeners to discover jazz’s depth and history.
In the interview, Joy shared how her family’s musical legacy, particularly her gospel roots, shaped her style.
“To have a recorded legacy of my family’s history in music… to harmonize together,” she reflected, “it’s the same power and goal of collaboration and of thinking of something higher than myself.”
She sees her music as a way to extend her family’s influence while spreading a message that resonates beyond her individual voice.
Joy believes her album Portrait is an accessible entry point for those unfamiliar with jazz.
“If you haven’t given jazz a chance yet, listen to Portrait,” she urged. “All the music that’s popular today, it had to come from somewhere.”
Her words highlight her aim to bring new perspectives to the genre, combining respect for jazz’s roots with her unique sound.
Joy’s Portrait album is a celebration of both jazz and her family’s gospel influence, adding another layer to her growing legacy in contemporary jazz.
