REVIEW: SAMARA JOY @ MILLER THEATER
WRITTEN BY: Susanna Coyle
PHOTOS BY: Susanna Coyle
On Nov. 11, 2025, American jazz artist Samara Joy shared a special birthday show with fellow jazz-lovers at Miller Theater. Joy’s mastery and control over her voice, in conjunction with her extensive vocal range and genuine love for jazz and music as a whole, united harmoniously, leading to a phenomenal concert.
The concert seemed to revolve heavily around the theme of “home” in both literal and figurative senses. Samara’s parents and family members were members of the audience.
Additionally, she shared that being in Philadelphia gave her a sense of home and a feeling of belonging. In the past, she has performed at Chris’ Jazz Cafe and Marian Anderson Hall as part of her musical career.
Abstractly, the concert also felt like home because the music sounded so warm and full of life. The band’s impeccable intonation through every dynamic created a secure blanket that sat snugly underneath Samara’s vocals.
The combined instrumental tones were like glowing orbs that contracted and expanded naturally through the music. The instruments surrounding her included a piano, drums, bass, trombone, trumpet, flute and saxophone, each with a solo that left the audience in awe at the sheer talent and skill showcased.
Lyrically, the messages echoed optimism and wise ponders about the everyday balance between living and dreaming. Tying all the elements together, it was crystal clear that all the musicians were familiar with and enjoyed working alongside each other in creating the sonic masterpiece that was the performance.
Recently, Samara Joy’s album, “Portrait,” became Grammy-nominated for Best Jazz Vocal Album, and “Peace of Mind/Dreams Come True” was nominated for Best Jazz Performance. Regarding Portrait, Samara said that it was recorded in three days. However, there was no lack of preparation for the recording, because according to her, it felt like the band’s years together were one giant rehearsal, which granted them the total readiness to execute the album in such a short timeframe.
Samara’s latest release is a single titled “Three Little Words,” which was a setlist highlight. The building ebb and flow of the dynamics pulls the listener into the middle of the dancing ballroom, from standing at the edge of the room. Like a circle around one’s head, the music is all-encompassing and invites each audience member to simply exist within the wonderment of the rhythms, rests and riffs.
It will certainly be exciting to watch Samara Joy’s career continue to flourish. When she performs in Philly again, you will not want to miss it!
