Episode 119: Sammi Garett

Listen to an interview with the former Turkuaz vocalist about her upcoming solo EP ‘Sweet Tooth’ and more.

By Team JamBase Mar 31, 2022 • 11:29 am PDT

Singer-songwriter Sammi Garett appears on Episode 119 of The JamBase Podcast, a partner of the Osiris Media Network. The former Turkuaz vocalist was interviewed by JamBase’s Andy Kahn for a discussion about her upcoming debut solo EP, Sweet Tooth and more.

The conversation with Garett took place recently over a video call from her home in New York City. Garett was about to embark on the Funk The World Tour with her frequent collaborator (and recent JamBase Podcast guest) Freekbass. Garett performs as part of the bassist’s Bump Assembly backing band and revealed that her recently released solo single, “With You,” would be performed on the tour.

Garett joined Turkuaz in 2012 and left the band along with several other members — including her fiance, saxophonist Greg Sanderson — in November 2021. Garett discussed her background in music leading up to joining the band and described some of her early solo endeavors. There was a touching moment when Garett described her relationship with Holly Ross, one her influential music teachers who sadly passed away.

After Turkuaz’s dissolving, Garett refocused on her solo career, syncing up with Freekbass to record “With You.” Freekbass produced and played bass on the track, alongside Bump Assembly keyboardist Sky White and Sanderson on sax. Additional songs that will appear on Sweet Tooth were recorded during the sessions at Freekbass’ studio. Garett talked about her songwriting process and her use of Ableton to build demos and create new original songs. Garett was also asked to talk about the experience of having “With You” released under her own name.

The conversation covered Garett’s immediate response to the shocking demise of Turkuaz. She discussed making the “scary” decision to leave the band after almost 10 years and how she faced the fear without regrets. Garett also talked about getting support from friends and fans alike and how the music community was also supportive during the difficult time.

This episode is sponsored by Delfest. The 14th annual DelFest is pleased to announce that after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the music of Del McCoury and friends returns to beautiful Cumberland, Maryland on May 26 – 29. Spend Memorial Day Weekend with hosts The Del McCoury Band and The Travelin’ McCourys, along with Railroad Earth, Bela Fleck’s My Bluegrass Heart, Sam Bush, Tyler Childers, Robert Earl Keen, Leftover Salmon and many more. DelFest 2022 tickets are on sale now!

Stream Episode 119 of The JamBase Podcast via all major podcast services including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Google Podcast.