SAMANTHA FISH consistently ranks among the most electrifying singer-songwriter guitarists on the planet.
We have previously described the way she plays her slide guitar—and the sheer force of her stage presence—as being like “starlight filtering through smokefall.”
Samantha’s audiences have always been captivated by her fiery performances, her bold artistic choices, the deep emotional expression of her work, and the unique blend of rock and soul she delivers. This commanding stage presence and undeniable guitar talent has supercharged a remarkably successful career.
On Friday, June 12th, 2026, the GRAMMY-nominated artist will release Paper Doll Live, her first official live album, out via Rounder Records. (Available here: https://ffm.to/sfpaperdolllive).
Recorded at the venerable Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Tennessee, the album documents an artist and her band performing with exceptional synergy, powered by the energy of a packed house. It is a release that firmly cements her status as a titan of contemporary blues and roots music.
Fish’s deft slide-guitar technique is radiant —glistening like silverfrost and bursting with irrepressible energy…
The live rendition of “Sweet Southern Sounds” feels like a profound gift, showcasing mellow tones and devoted rhythms. This song envelops listeners like a warm blessing, encompassing every note from her cool, metallic guitar, wonderfully anchored by gleaming beats from her stellar rhythm section with Ron Johnson on bass guitar and Jamie Douglass on drums.
“I’m Done Runnin’” uses electro-polished galvanized guitar and maize husk percussion in its edgy construction, while the lyrics balance excitement for the future with reflection on regrets. Consequently, the song’s pulse ’n’ groove expressionism exudes unrestrained optimism. As anticipated, Fish’s deft slide-guitar technique is radiant here —glistening like silverfrost and bursting with irrepressible energy.
“Lose You” features a straightforward guitar riff matched by a breath of anticipation. It’s a classic blues-inspired rock ’n’ roll piece, jam-packed with texture, and features a memorable verse and a singalong chorus that’s almost impossible to resist. This song begs to be acknowledged (and, like the artist too, it must be loved).
On “Paper Doll” (video shared below), Samantha delivers a searing performance, unleashing high-pitched, intensely sharp vibrations that target the listener’s emotions, tearing through them like a vengeful cat’s claw. The driving ambition of this amazing song—a scuzzy, chopped-down, rag-tag slashed metaphor about getting even—was a standout on the original studio recording and, performed live, it transforms into a badass reaping-hook of retribution!
Order the album now: https://ffm.to/sfpaperdolllive
Words: © Neil Mach 2026
Main photo: © Phil Honley
RAW RAMP 