Few musical artists possess the soul required to illuminate the entire history of a genre with their harmonies. Samara Joy, the 23-year-old jazz vocalist carrying nearly a century's worth of history in her voice, may be the exception. Joy exudes the presence of an old soul, coupled with a voice that draws in jazz newcomers while simultaneously stirring the souls of those who grew up on standards.
Wearing a white dress and a bright smile, she appeared genuinely touched and excited to be on stage in Newport once again. Joy sang "If You Never Fall in Love With Me" from her self-titled debut album, "Stardust," a Bing Crosby cover and also one of her favorites, "Chega de Saudade," "Tight," "Reincarnation of a Lovebird," "Guess Who I Saw Today/Lately," "Linger Awhile," and "Sweet Pumpkin."
In the spirit of reinvigoration, Joy has occasionally rewritten lyrics to her favorites, including instrumental interludes, to suit her mood or experience, sometimes gleaning inspiration from the fiction she reads.
Here is a collection of photos from her performance at the 2023 Newport Jazz Festival.