Quinton Sampson is no stranger to the stage. Growing up in Houston, TX, his mother encouraged he and his brother to pursue their passions in the arts, transporting them to auditions and practices, and making sure they continued to study their crafts – even when they tried to quit. At a young age, he began singing in Choir at church and later sang in Jazz Choir while attending High School. Sampson said he “thought everyone could sing” until he sang to a girl in high school and she “freaked out.” After that, he realized he had something exceptional with his voice. Growing up in a musical household (his mother played the piano, sang, and listened to oldies and his father enjoyed Motown Classics), Sampson’s influences include musical icons Michael Jackson, Johnny Taylor, BB King, and the Beatles, as well as newer acts like Bruno Mars and Disney musicals. Though he claims not to be an expert in any instrument other than his voice, Sampson also plays the guitar, piano, and harmonica. He aspires to contribute to good music – “music that’s worth something, feels good, and something people think of when they want to enjoy themselves.” Equally passionate about acting, Sampson explains that he is “not a singer who acts, nor an actor who sings. They’re separate.” He acted and sang in musicals growing up, opting to take his singing career more seriously when he saw his brother, Kendrick (How to Get Away with Murder, The Vampire Diaries, Gracepoint) taking acting more seriously. Among his theatrical influences are Will Smith, Denzel Washington, Anthony Hopkins, and Robert Downing, Jr. Quinton’s affinity for the arts come honestly: his brother is an actor, cousins in the entertainment industry as musicians, actors, and one cousin reigned as Miss USA 2008. It’s no surprise that Sampson, who admits he finds it difficult to choose a favorite anything, aspires to win an Emmy, an Oscar, and a Grammy, excelling at all of his passions. A hard worker and focused artist, it is clear that he is well on his way to meeting all of his goals in life.