Samara Joy

Samara Joy McLendon, known professionally as Samara Joy, is an American jazz singer born on November 11, 1999. Hailing from the Bronx, New York City, she comes from a musical family background. Her paternal grandparents, Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, were the founders of the gospel group The Savettes. Inspired by her father, who is a vocalist and bass player, Samara developed a love for gospel, soul, and Motown music. She attended Fordham High School for the Arts, where she showcased her talent as a jazz singer in the school's jazz band. In 2021, she released her self-titled debut album, followed by her second album, 'Linger Awhile,' in 2022. Samara Joy's extraordinary vocal skills and musical achievements have earned her recognition, including the Best New Artist title at the JazzTimes Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album.