Sammy Rae & The Friends Release The Soul-Infused, Introspective “Closer To You”

January 23, 2023 BY Bailey Vigliaturo

Brooklyn-based ensemble Sammy Rae & The Friends have released their first single of 2023 called “Closer To You.” The soul-infused introspective song follows the development and dissolving of a life changing relationship. The song is available across digital retailers HERE.

Sammy says, “’Closer To You’ investigates what we do with a lack of closure after people grow apart – the feeling of being left behind and the complex realization that you may ultimately end up your fullest self-thanks to, but separate from, someone who was once the center of your life.”

They have also just been announced as part of the line-up for the star-studded The Music of Paul McCartney fundraising performance on March 15th at Carnegie Hall alongside such act as Lake Street Dive, Natalie Merchant, The Head and The Heart, Allison Russell, Patti Smith and many more. Tickets and more information can be found HERE.

Sammy Rae & The Friends wrapped up an incredible 2022 with a massive fall headline tour, which saw them playing some of their biggest shows to date, including two nights at The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, Roadrunner in Boston and The Fillmore Theatre in both Philly and DC. Their upcoming UK run is already sold out, and the group recently announced their debut appearance at Bonnaroo this summer! Sammy Rae & The Friend’s energetic and communal shows are where they shine brightest and are not to miss. See below for upcoming tour dates.

“Closer To You” follows last summer’s jazzy retro pop singles “If It All Goes South,” which was accompanied by a stellar music video starring Barbara Lochiatto, who first warmed viewers hearts as the widow looking for a second chance at love in Some Kind of Heaven – a critically acclaimed documentary produced by Darren Aronofsky (Requiem for a DreamThe Wrestler, Jackie) and the New York Times and directed by Lance Oppenheim. Sammy Rae was struck by Lochiatto’s inspiring story after seeing the documentary and reached out to her to join the music video not only as the leading lady but as the storyline’s muse which has Sammy Rae following along as Barbara gives love another chance.  

For as much as Sammy Rae & The Friends may be a band, this diverse collective of musicians, dreamers, and artists considers itself a family first. The group flourishes in any spotlight with a combination of all-for-one and one-for-all camaraderie, palpable chemistry, deft virtuosity, and vocal fireworks. Their sound is a mélange of Sammy’s influences, rooted in classic rock, folk, and funk and sprinkled with soul and jazz. Complete with a rhythm section, two saxophones, keyboards, and plenty of percussion, Sammy Rae & The Friends have delivered their high-energy, spirited, and unrestrained shows to sold-out audiences all over.

Watch Sammy Rae & The Friends Perform Fan Fave “Denim Jacket” Live with Nebulous String Quartet:

Check out all upcoming tour dates below and for the most up-to-date information on the band stay tuned to www.sammyrae.com.

Sammy Rae & The Friends Confirmed Tour Dates

Wed, Jan 25      Bristol, UK @ The Fleece (Sold Out)

Thur, Jan 26      London, UK @ Koko (Sold Out)

Fri, Jan 27         Manchester, UK @ Band on the Wall (Sold Out)

Sat, Jan 28        Glasgow, UK @ Celtic Connections (Sold Out)

Thur, Feb 2       Amsterdam, NL @ Paradiso Amsterdam

Fri, Feb 3          London, UK @ Electric Brixton (Sold Out)

Sat, Feb 4         Manchester, UK @ Band on the Wall (Sold Out)

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Wed, Mar 15     New York, NY @ Carnegie Hall (The Music of Paul McCartney)

Jun 15-17          Manchester, TN @ Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Jun 23-25          Franklin County Fairgrounds (Northampton, MA) @ Green River Festival

Photo Credit: Mia Aguirre / Download Here

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