Biography
Vicky Sometani, a Chicago-born singer-songwriter, spent many years in New York City writing music privately before relocating to London after falling in love, where she began performing publicly and establishing herself in the acoustic scene. Her music blends soul, blues, jazz, and acoustic pop, characterized by haunting vocals, raw emotion, and a modern nod to 1950s jazz, often evoking introspection and personal growth. She debuted with the single 'Breeze' in 2019, which reached number four on iTunes Top Singer/Songwriter charts and gained airplay on BBC Introducing London and Soho Radio, followed by her EP 'Come To You' released with Laid Bare Records, featuring live sessions on BBC Radio London and Hoxton Radio.
Sometani quickly built a presence with over 60 shows, including international gigs for Sofar Sounds and appearances on London Live, while navigating challenges like balancing a day job with creative pursuits. In 2020, she released the personal single 'Maybe,' reflecting her journey from self-destructive habits to seeking help, praised by Hoxton Radio. By 2024, she evolved her sound through a collaboration with MAX RAD, releasing 'Known By You'—BBC Introducing Track of the Week—and a funk, soul, pop, electronic-infused EP co-written in Bristol, marking a new phase in her artistry.
Her work has been highlighted in outlets like XS Noize, Louder Than War, and Line of Best Fit, with descriptions praising her pared-down jazz-inflected folk balladry and lyrical finesse. Taking a year off from her office job around 2020 to focus on music, photography, videography, and fashion, Sometani continues to prioritize genuine connections through music, viewing it as a form of release and synchronization of souls.
Fun Facts
- She played her first public shows in London after years of private songwriting in NYC, prompted by falling in love and moving there.
- Her favorite gig venue is the intimate basement at New Roots in The Harrison, known for pin-drop audiences.
- Sometani took a full year off from her day job to dive into music, photography, videography, editing, and fashion as new creative outlets.
- She finds inspiration in turning parties into jam sessions, a fond memory from New York apartments and Brooklyn rooftops.
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- MAX RAD - Co-writer and collaborator on electronic, funk, soul, and pop tracks ('Known By You' single (2024), EP featuring co-written songs)
- Laid Bare Records - Record label for debut releases ('Breeze' single (2019), 'Come To You' EP) [2019-2020]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Vicky Sometani has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.