A bluesy Fish to open the Second Street Live! season

Music artist Samantha Fish is set to launch the 2013-2014 Homecoming Season of Second Street Live! on Sept. 17 in Fort Smith. The 22-year-old singer and guitarist said her show has a bluesy feel that is sure to get toes tapping.

“There are elements of blues rock, Americana and country,” said Fish “We have a really high energy, soulful show – regardless of classification, we are there to entertain.”

The Second Street Live board of directors chose the rising blues star to begin their season line-up because of her range and depth as a songwriter, with cool vocals and confident stage presence.

In addition to Fish, Second Street Live has planned a showcase of new and iconic singer songwriters who will perform in the intimate 801 Media Center located at 5 Star Productions at North 8th and North A Street in downtown Fort Smith.

Sound Engineer Tom Ware said he will make sure the performers have the performing arts sound they all deserve.

“The room is one of the most acoustically perfect places anywhere,” said Ware. “So a lot of sound reinforcement isn't really necessary. My experience and familiarity with the room is more of a factor. There are 80 theater type seats in a very comfortable atmosphere.”

Fish, whose solo debut “Runway” announced her as a newcomer to be reckoned with has fond ties to the Arkansas area.

“I love the King Biscuit Festival in Helena, Arkansas,” she said. “It was my first blues festival.”

Some of the musical influences that have helped shape Fish’s unique sound are Mississippi foothill music, and guitar slingers like Stevie Ray Vaughn and Jonny Lang.

It wasn’t long ago that very few people outside Kansas City, Missouri knew of Fish’s talent. Even though her stardom is quickly growing she hasn’t forgotten what it was like starting out and she enjoys sharing what she’s learned with other artists.

“New musicians need to educate themselves,” she said. “You have to study your craft, but also get a handle on the business. There are a lot of talented people out there. My peers have helped me more than I ever expected.”

In all, the Second Street Live Season has a total of seven evenings of live music that they hope audiences will enjoy and remember with hometown friends.

“I’m excited that we are bringing such award winning singer-songwriters at Billy Joe Shaver and Thom Bresh to our special little theater,” said John McIntosh, board member. “We will have a special evening in February when Trout Fishing in America comes back to town for a tribute evening remembering our good friend Dick Renko.”

Other shows to look forward to include Adam Hood who’s white-hot passion is said to create pure art that honors Southern culture and sets it to music as well as legendary Urban Cowboy Johnny Lee.

Link here to the Second Street website for info on tickets and schedules.