Sam Hankins draws on a powerhouse resume as a music educator and R&B/jazz sideman that includes multiple awards as a middle school Band Director and performances with numerous legendary artists, including Al Jarreau, Clark Terry, The O’Jays, The Temptations, The Dells, The Impressions, Aretha Franklin and the Glenn Miller Big Band.
As a prolific composer, Hankins has composed over 150 pieces before he took his wife’s advice and began pursuing the next phase of his diverse career, as a solo recording artist. He laid the groundwork for Nothing Between Us (May 2012) by releasing Dream Catcher (July 2011), a compilation of his catalog of music in every genre from smooth jazz and dance to techno. He released his third CD, Joyous Celebration, a Christmas CD which is a collaboration with David Mc Lorren in November 2015 and his latest CD Do That Thang in March 2016.
All 4 CD’s have received lots of radio play around the world and in the US. Sam is also an Adjunct Music Professor at South Suburban College where he is the Director & Conductor of the Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble.
Over the years, while maintaining an active educational career, he has played with funk bands, circus bands, cruise ship ensembles and different “combos”. He is currently putting things together for more solo live performances and has numerous skillful musicians that he has previously worked with on eager standby.
Sam's latest release "Hot Spot" will be released July 24, 2021.
