Sam Lavery, a dynamic and multi-talented individual, has recently joined Capital North East as the brand-new host of the Weekday Drive show. Her journey to this point is a testament to her versatility and passion for the arts. Sam first caught public attention with her remarkable appearance on the X Factor in 2016. Mentored by Simon Cowell, who saw her as a potential winner, she soared to the finals of the award-winning show. This exposure catapulted her into the limelight and led to her first UK and Ireland arena tour with the X Factor in 2017. During this tour, she showcased her unique vocal talent with stunning arrangements of classics like Michael Jackson's ‘Earth Song’ and Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’. Her performances garnered widespread acclaim, establishing her as a formidable talent in the music industry.
Following her success on X Factor, Sam Lavery continued to expand her musical repertoire. She embarked on a nationwide theatre tour with M People’s Heather Small, captivating audiences across the UK and Ireland with her performances. This tour was a massive success, with sold-out shows night after night, further cementing her status as a rising star. Not one to rest on her laurels, Sam quickly followed this up by supporting Keith Duffy and Brian Macfadden on their Boyzlife theatre tour. In addition to these tours, she dedicated considerable time to working in the studio on her music, showcasing her commitment to her art and her desire to grow as a musician. Her relentless work ethic and passion for music were evident as she toured nationwide in 2019 as the lead female in Green Day’s Tony award-winning musical ‘American Idiot’, produced by Selladoor. The tour’s success led to an extended run in New Zealand, further broadening her international appeal.
The Covid pandemic posed challenges for many artists, but Sam Lavery used this time to hone her skills and explore new avenues. Splitting her time between her home recording studio, where she continued writing and recording, and learning the ropes at a radio station, Sam demonstrated her adaptability and eagerness to learn. Her hard work paid off when she was given her DJ presenting slot on Capital FM as a holiday cover. In this role, she not only presented her show but also worked closely with Global, a major broadcasting company. This experience was a significant milestone in her career, aligning with her longstanding interest in radio and presenting.
Sam Lavery is not just a gifted artist but also an adrenaline enthusiast with a love for fitness and extreme sports. Her adventurous spirit is evident in her hobbies, which include paragliding, gliding, and scuba diving in caves – activities that require courage, physical fitness, and a love for thrills. This aspect of her personality adds another layer to her already impressive profile. Now, with her recent appointment at Capital North East, Sam is set for a busy and exciting year ahead. Her diverse talents, coupled with her enthusiasm for both music and adventure, make her a unique and engaging presence on the airwaves, promising an enriching experience for her listeners.