Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by the incredibly talented Sam Fischer. With his latest album, I Love You, Please Don’t Hate Me, Sam has captivated audiences with his honest and introspective storytelling. From navigating personal challenges to collaborating with industry icons, his journey is as compelling as his music. Join us as we explore the inspirations behind his tracks, the significance of mental health in his artistry, and the stories that shaped his musical narrative.
In your statement, you mention I Love You, Please Don’t Hate Me, album as an honest conversation with yourself about the last five years. Were there specific challenges during this period that directly influenced the creation of certain tracks on the album?
There were definitely challenges! Growing pains, perspective shifts, falling in and out of love with songs etc. I think the heartbreak of the pandemic crushing all the unreal opportunities and plans we had has been the hardest thing to move on from. The question of “what would have been?” still haunts me and in making this album, these songs were written in a really tumultuous and emotionally turbulent time where I saw the worst sides of myself. I think one track that really represents that struggle is “Somebody Cares“.
Your album features collaborations with Demi Lovato, Meghan Trainor, and Amy Shark. How did these collaborations come about, and what unique elements did each artist bring to their respective tracks that enriched the storytelling?
All 3 of these incredible artists are friends of mine and there was never a long list of artists to collaborate with, they all happened really organically and personally. We all still talk and I’m so proud of the art we were able to create together! What I love so much is Demi, Meghan, and Amy are all incredible storytellers themselves and all have unique artistic expression that is so true to them and you can hear it in their performance on the record. Something that has stuck with me is being told that on “What Other People Say” when Demi is singing it sounds like she’s on the other side of her struggle and when I’m singing it sounds like I’m still going through it. I thought that was really interesting.
The album explores the intricate landscape of mental health. How do you hope your music will impact listeners on a personal level, especially those who may be going through similar experiences?
You know it’s so nice that the stigma around talking about your mental health is being loudly stamped out and artists aren’t afraid to speak on it or create around it anymore. Something I’ve learned since I first began releasing music is that nothing I’ve ever felt is unique. I hope that the album can provide the space and the words for anyone who has been struggling to find them themselves.
Mental health awareness is increasingly important in the music industry. As an artist, how do you think the industry can contribute to destigmatizing conversations around mental health, and what role do artists play in this movement?
In a post-pandemic world, I think the compartmentalizing and anxiety we all suffered through is catching up to us and we need safe outlets to not be okay. Artists get to be the providers of those spaces with our music, at our shows, on our social platforms, etc. The work is being done just by being vocal about our struggles and mental health journeys. Hearing that your favorite artist is going through what you’re also going through just makes you feel a little less alone in it.
Are there particular songs that hold a special place in your heart, and if so, could you share the stories or inspirations behind them?
“Landslide” was the first song I wrote for the album at a time when I never thought I’d get the chance to make a debut album. I had no idea it was a song for me and the way the song came together was so beautiful and chaotic. It was 1 am, me and the other writers were all hammered and trying to write an upbeat, party anthem until we decided it was shit and hail mary’s a love song. It came together in 30 minutes, the lead vocal is a one-take vocal, as are all the backgrounds and once we’d finished it we didn’t listen to it until the next morning. It will forever be my favorite process for any song of mine I’ve ever written.
The final track, “Carry It Well,” serves as the conclusion to the album’s emotional journey. Can you share the significance of this song and how it encapsulates the overarching themes of I Love You, Please Don’t Hate Me?
“Carry It Well,” I think just describes me. I’m an outgoing, painfully extraverted person who doesn’t give much away publicly when I’m struggling, and given that the album is quite confessional in where my head’s at, it basically says “Yeah that’s where I’m at, and just because I carry it well doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy, so go easy on me and go easy on yourself if you feel the same”. It just felt right to close the album with that sentiment. I’m so proud of that song.
And before we sign off, we have exciting news to share! Sam Fischer has teamed up with multi-platinum ARIA award-winning artist Guy Sebastian to deliver their latest single, “Antidote.” This powerful collaboration delves into the transformative power of music and the unconditional love that serves as a lifeline in our lives. With delicate piano melodies and soaring vocals, “Antidote” promises to be a stirring addition to your playlist. Be sure to give it a listen and let the music be your guide.
