Sam Newsome

Sam Newsome is a celebrated jazz musician, educator, and author whose work explores the rich intersection of creativity, individuality, and innovation. As Associate Professor at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports, and Entertainment at Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus, he mentors the next generation of artists and thought leaders to embrace their own voices and lead with authenticity.

Best known for his pioneering solo saxophone work and presence in New York’s improvised music scene, Sam brings decades of firsthand experience navigating both the bandstand and the business side of art. His insights on reinvention, collaboration, and the art of risk have resonated far beyond the jazz world.

He is the author of Life Lessons from the Horn, Be Inspired, Stay Focused, and the influential blog Soprano Sax Talk. His latest work, Connie’s White World, is a collection of jazz-infused short stories that captures the rhythms, tensions, and humanity of life both on and off the bandstand.

Sam lives in the South Bronx with his wife Meg and daughter Naomi, continuing his mission to inspire through sound and story.