Songwriting and experimenting with melodies has always been a passion of junior Samantha Gustavino, but now her hobby has become a commercial endeavor.

The sixteen -year old began writing music at the age of nine. She’s been on a musical bend ever since she learned how to play the guitar when she was thirteen. 

“I’ve been doing this for a really long time, but I never knew the lyrics to anything and I usually just mumbled along,” said Gustavino. 

As her talent grew, Gustavino decided it was time to take music lessons as a way to help develop her songwriting. Her guitar instructor, Felisha Dunne, has helped her unravel her musical talent and provide her with recording opportunities.  

“My music teacher had a local connection with a producer, Tommy Benson, in Laguna Beach,” said Gustavino. 

Gustavino recorded a demo with Benson, and the experience was something she will never forget. 

“Walking into the studio felt like a dream come true. It was so cool. There were glass windows and high quality microphones. It was just super cool,” said Gustavino. 

With the recent release of her debut single, Carousel Ride, the four minute song has taken over radio station 104.7KXFM. It’s on a constant rotation that’ll be played every Monday and Friday. 

“I like the song because it connects to people. I listen to it all the time and I’m super proud of Samantha,” said junior Sara Gaines. 

‘Carousel Ride’ was released onSpotify and other streaming platforms. Gustavino gained 300 monthly listeners within the first week of the song’s release, and this is just the start for her. 

“I typically write as I go but eventually I realized this song is about not being able to get out of a situation and you’re just going to keep coming back around,” said Gustavino. 

The singer-songwriter hopes to continue making music by coming out with more songs, and eventually  an album.

“I want people to take what they want from my music, it means something different to everyone and that’s what makes music beautiful,” said Gustavino.