Sampson: A Hopeless Romantic on the Rise

Left: Suit Charles & Ron @charlesandron Right: Set: Helmut Lang @helmutlang Shoes: Gucci @gucci

At just 21 years old, Alex Sampson has already achieved what many artists only dream of: semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent, breakout viral success, a charting EP, and now touring North America alongside the likes of Alexander Stewartand Jamie Miller. But behind the stage lights and social media buzz is a young artist finding his rhythm, and himself, one lyric at a time.

Tank Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny Pants AMI Paris @amiparis Shoes Dr. Martens @drmartensofficial

As his tour bus rolls from city to city, Alex is reflecting on the whirlwind.

“Touring has taught me so much about myself as both an artist and a person. Artistically, it’s shown me how to connect with my fans in a way I never could online, it’s refreshing and incredibly rewarding. Personally, I’ve learned my limits, especially when it comes to pushing myself and my voice. Life on the road can be really demanding, but it’s helped me grow so much.”

Before his name graced festival posters, Alex captured national attention as a fan favorite on America’s Got Talent. Making it to the semi-finals gave him a major platform and a surreal memory he’s still processing.

“Making it to the semifinals on AGT was such a surreal experience. Honestly, when I watch it back, it doesn’t even feel like I’m watching myself, it’s wild. I’m incredibly grateful for that opportunity. It really changed things for me, especially when my songs hit the iTunes charts for the first time because of the show. That’s something I’ll never forget.”

Set: Helmut Lang @helmutlang Shoes: Gucci @gucci

Cardigan ASOS @asos Tank Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny Pants AMI Paris @amiparis Shoes Dr. Martens @drmartensofficial

That momentum carried into his breakout EP, Hopeless Romantic, which wrapped vintage charm in modern pop sensibility. Drawing from the golden eras of the ’50s and ’60s, Alex set out to craft something nostalgic yet now.

“While writing Hopeless Romantic, I was really inspired by the authentic sound of the ’50s and ’60s, but I wanted to mix in a modern flare and make it my own. Emotionally, it was a pivotal moment in my life, I had just gotten through my first AGT audition and knew the judges liked the style of ‘Pretty Baby,’ so there was pressure to follow it up with something equally strong, if not better.”

Cardigan ASOS @asos Tank Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny Pants AMI Paris @amiparis

For Sampson, the songwriting process is instinctual. Emotion guides the lyrics, while his natural pop leanings do the rest.

“Honestly, I just write and sing whatever feels the best in the moment. I try not to overthink it. Whatever I’m going through emotionally tends to shape the lyrics, and since I’m a pop guy at heart, those catchy little melodies just kind of come naturally LOL.”

Denim Set K Sayari @k.sayariofficial Lace tank Vintage Shoes Saint Laurent @ysl Jewelry Charlie Lapson @charlielapson

Left: Top & Pants Atelier Cillian @ateliercillian Jewelry Charlie Lapson @charlielapson

That authenticity hasn’t gone unnoticed. When People Magazine named him one of their “Emerging Artists Making Their Mark,” it became a defining full-circle moment.

“That was seriously the coolest thing ever. I’m still getting used to being featured in outlets like that, so seeing my name in People was a huge moment. It felt awesome to be recognized on that level.”

Yet for Alex, it all started long before red carpets and write-ups. One viral TikTok in 2019 changed everything.

“The moment I released my first single back in 2019 and saw my very first TikTok about it go viral, that’s when everything changed. That post kind of kickstarted my whole career, and I’m super grateful for it. Without that moment, who knows where I’d be today?”

Suit Charles & Ron @charlesandron Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny

Stage presence, like songwriting, is something he’s had to grow into. And while AGT gave him massive exposure, it was touring that gave him his footing.

“I definitely feel more confident on stage now than I did during AGT. I always say this, but I really wish I had toured before going on the show. I think I would’ve done so much better with that experience under my belt.”

Creatively, inspiration strikes when it wants to. For Alex, melody often leads the way no matter where he is.

“It honestly changes, but usually, the melody comes first. I’ll get ideas at the most random times, on a flight, in the car, even while hanging out with friends. Once I’m in the studio, I’ll start humming a melody and then work lyrics around it.”

And yes, being a “hopeless romantic” isn’t just a title it’s a lifestyle. One that sometimes clashes with the reality of touring.

“I think it’s both a help and a hindrance. Being away from the people I love for long stretches definitely hurts but at the same time, it’s that love that keeps me going. Knowing they’re proud of me and want the best for me makes the distance a little easier to handle.”

If he could offer a word of advice to his younger self, the one nervously posting those first clips online, he knows exactly what he’d say.

“I’d probably just tell him that everything is going to be okay. Stay consistent with posting on social media, and maybe learn guitar a bit faster!”

Left: Cardigan ASOS @asos Tank Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny Pants AMI Paris @amiparis Right:Suit Charles & Ron @charlesandron Tank Todd Snyder @toddsnyderny

Fans, of course, are central to his journey, and some moments will never leave him.

“There was this amazing girl in Toronto who came up to me and told me she was cancer-free and that my music helped her get through treatment. She was crying, and it was such a beautiful, emotional moment. It meant the world to me. Moments like that are the reason I do what I do.”

As for what’s next? Alex is already in the studio, taking bold creative steps toward his next chapter.

“Yes! I’m currently in the studio and working on developing a new sound, something that feels even more personal and true to who I am. I’m exploring what I want to say in my music and trying to craft something that really stands out. It’s scary and exciting at the same time, but I know it’s going to be the most ‘me’ it’s ever been.”

From viral beginnings to international stages, Alex Sampson isn’t just building a fanbase, he’s building a legacy. And if his journey so far is any sign, the best is still to come.

Left: Top & Pants Atelier Cillian @ateliercillian Jewelry Charlie Lapson @charlielapson Right: Vest Corridor @corridor Jeans Cherry @cherrylosangeles Shoes Saint Laurent @ysl

Print issue coming out soon.

Alex Sampson @alexsampson Photography Jen Rosenstein @jenrosenstein Styling Michael Fusco @mikeystyles Grooming  Aika Danica Flores @by.aikaflores Conversation by Aleksandar Tomovic @alekandsteph Styling Assistant Rachel Cocca @rachelcocca Location Blvd Studio Sunset @blvdstudiosunset Publicist Aasim Khan at Jill Fritzo Public Relations @jillfritzopr

Vest Corridor @corridor Jeans Cherry @cherrylosangeles Shoes Saint Laurent @ysl