VALE Signs Sam Machin as Newest Artist
Annville, PA (10/16/2017) — Sam Machin '20 was not expecting to become the VALE Records artist of the year when she arrived as a freshman at Lebanon Valley College, especially since she wasn't even majoring in music or one of the College's four music-related majors. However, sometimes the unexpected can be exciting.
VALE Music Group, the College's student-run record label, hosts an annual audition to choose its new artist or band. Students submit a video of themselves or their group performing an original piece or a cover of another artist's song. The top four submissions then compete in the live VALE Showcase where the winner receives a contract with VALE Records.
As the new VALE artist, Machin performed at the College's annual spring festival ValleyFest and released her new EP In the Stars, produced by the VALE Music Group. She also appeared on ABC 27's Good Day PA.
"I was happy being able to just try out and am enjoying the experience all together," said Machin, a jazz-pop artist.
An early childhood education major with a minor in business administration, Machin became interested in music at an early age. She started singing at age five and began playing piano by age 6.
"I love performing live," said Machin. "My favorite part is being able to play with a band and interact together through music."
As she transitioned into songwriting, Machin used her ability to translate life's experiences and her own emotions into music as a way to cope with the events in her life. Though she lists her favorite artists as Amy Winehouse and John Mayer, Machin's musical style is influenced by her love of all genres.
Music is not Machin's only passion. After graduation, she hopes to travel and teach children in urban communities, and continue to make music as a hobby. Another goal of Machin's is to join an organization to help end world hunger.
"I've always wanted to help others who don't have the resources to help themselves," said Machin.
Machin credits Lebanon Valley College and VALE with helping her to become more confident and positive as a person, as well as helping her to share her music with a larger audience.
Her music is available for download on Bandcamp and CDs are available in The Valley's College Store. Keep an eye on Machin's Facebook page (@SamMachinMusic) and the VALE Music Group (@valerecords) for upcoming performances.
A video of Machin's VALE Showcase performance is on the VALE Records Facebook page.
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