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"Arguably, Sammi Smith is one of the most underrated country music artists of all time. Many consider Sammi's style to be 'outlaw' but, as were many of her recordings, her greatest hit was undeniably 'countrypolitan.' The song, 'Help Me Make It Through The Night', is a legendary country music classic, hailed by Country Music Magazine as No.23 on the chart for the Top 100 Country Songs Of All Time. Jewel Fay Smith was born in Orange, California on 5th. August 1943. Her father was a serviceman and, consequently, 'Sammi' moved around considerably, predominantly living in the States of the southwest. One could say that Sammi began her adult life at a very early age. She left school at the age of 11 and, at 12, was working professionally in the nightclubs of the southwest, essentially singing the pop songs of the time. Some say that Sammi developed her sensual husky voice from the smoky club atmosphere. Sammi married at an early age too. Sammi's first marriage, at age 15, produced three children. In 1973, Sammi joined the 'Outlaw Movement' of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson when she moved to Dallas to join and perform with them. The relationship lasted many years. Waylon thought so much of Sammi's performances that he nicknamed her 'Girl Hero.' The feeling must have been mutual as Waylon is the name Sammi chose for her son from her second marriage. Little is known of Sammi since the mid 80's. It is known, however, that Sammi has worked for Apaches. Part Apache herself, Sammi adopted two Apache children and has established a scholarship to help provide for budding Apache doctors and lawyers. Sammi also led 'Apache Spirit,' a band comprised solely of native Americans. More recently, in 1995, an album embracing Sammi's greatest hits was released - 'The Best of Sammi Smith.' Significantly, the album comprises substantial 'countrypolitan' content. Few artists have enjoyed the success that Sammi has with 'Help Me Make It Through The Night.' The song is a country 'classic' and has place the name 'Sammi Smith' to the forefront in the annals of 'countrypolitan' music. Sammi's style has even been used as a comparison yardstick for modern artists such as current country vocalist, Shelby Lynne (The Nashville Scene 2/14/2000). As evidenced by her achievements in the early 70's, Sammi Smith can truly be ranked among the 'greats' of 'countrypolitan' music." Taken from an article written by Michael D'Arcy. May 2001© |
