Young song writer, Sam Evans, on faith and music

The style is jazzy and urban - The Sam Evans Band perform a range of unique compositions that get the crowd on their feet engaging with the sound from the stage. Musician Sam Evans, 17, is writer and lead vocalist. Fellow band members are Andy Slade, Cajonist/Saxophonist, Jonny Turner, Lead Guitar, and Alex Jovcic-sas on Bass Guitar.

Sam, who lives in Bath and plays the acoustic guitar, describes himself as bringing "upbeat and uplifting acoustic music with jazz/soul blends, which will leave you with a smile on your face." The lyrical complexity of Sam's work creates a different live sound experience. We asked him a few more questions...

How did you move into the mainstream music scene?

I played my first song in public at Boom Stage Festival in December 2010 after some friends said I should go for it. I was really nervous but really enjoyed performing and stuck at it to see how far it would take me.

So you have released your first single?

Yes, I dedicated the proceeds to charity. I played a North London gig and a 13 year-old family friend, Rafe, was watching. Rafe has an inoperable brain tumour and had received years of treatment at Birmingham Children's Hospital. He particularly liked a song called Tomorrow isn't promised and I was inspired adapt some of the words and record it to raise money for the hospital.

When did you first get involved in your church's worship team?

I've been playing in worship since I was 14. I was asked by a worship leaders, Scott Williamson, to play guitar. Then I moved onto keyboard and have continued to develop since then and, with his encouragement, also sing.

Do we need more young people in worship teams?

It is encouraging for a congregation to see younger people involved in worship. Sometimes music styles do clash but if young people like music they will find something to love from the range of worship songs and hymns across the years. Encouragement and valuing talents makes all the difference. Without this I wouldn't be where I am now. It also keeps young people engaged.

Does worship influence your mainstream music style or vice versa?

They are different really. The practical skills needed in sound-checking, getting the audio levels right and working as part of a group are all the same. Church worship is about directing people towards God but mainstream music often becomes about performing. My songs do not sound like something you might hear in church but some of the thinking behind the lyrics is influenced by my background and beliefs.

Are there conflicting demands?

It can be difficult sometimes. I got back from a Saturday gig in Cornwall at 2.30am (after a four hour drive) and then played piano at the Sunday morning service. In the secular music scene I want to promote myself and my music. Of course there are things that go on that I wouldn't want to be associated with but if I want to play to wider audiences then I have to go to pubs and clubs for that.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I would love to be professional. I plan to go to university to study commercial/popular music to enhance my music performance qualifications. I don't consider X Factor as a route to this dream because I want to develop as a songwriter and performer in my own right and create a sustainable career through gigs if I can. I love to express my ideas and feelings through music. It is my passion. Any opportunity to play, I will take.

Find out more about Sam's music - www.vibedeck.com/samevans