Sister duo ‘Sam + Jess’ performing across the Heartland

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - Sam + Jess, also known as Sam Gates and Jessie Schupbach are originally from Sparta, Illinois but both live in the Cape Girardeau area now.

They say their journey for music starts from birth, Sam adding, “Our dad plays guitar every day, my mom always is singing, she also plays piano and did a lot of singing in church growing up.”

As the two got older, they decided to become a duo in early 2020 called, Sam + Jess.

“Yeah, what a time to make that decision,” Jessie said.

They say their gigs mostly consist of playing at wineries and restaurants.

“It’s a good feeling for sure when people come specifically because they know you’re going to be there,” Jessie added.

Both agree their sounds tend to be more folk Americana with a touch of country.

The writing process tends to be more individual, allowing their unique sounds to come out through their music.

The siblings say they hope one day a song of theirs will take off.