Kashena Sampson describes “Phases” as “a spell of self-reflection, a way of honoring all sides of myself—the light and the shadow.”
Like most struggling artists, Sampson has experienced her share of rejection (and subsequent self-blame) in pursuit of a semblance of what the music industry defines as success.
“Like the moon, we all go through phases, and I’ve come to see how always trying to please everyone and never rocking the boat only leads to self-abandonment,” says Sampson, an East Nashville fixture known for her ’70s folk/rock sound and formidable pipes. “I finally grew brave enough to say, ‘I’m done with that charade. I’m done giving myself away just to keep the peace.’”
Sampson’s upcoming LP, Ghost Of Me (Mule Kick), is set for release on October 3, three days before the full moon. Until then, various focus tracks are being released to coincide with lunar milestones. A psychedelic swirl of a pep talk, “Phases” emerges just ahead of a September 21 convergence of the solar eclipse, new moon and International Day Of Peace.
“The song is a ritual and affirmation for letting go of what no longer serves me,” says Sampson. “It’s OK to get mad, to say no, to change your mind, to walk away. It’s not only OK—it’s empowering.”
We’re proud to premiere Kashena Sampson’s “Phases.”
—Hobart Rowland
