Childhood star continually strives for success

A part of musical recording artist Sammie "Sammie" Bush's charm lies is his ability to relate to both peers his age and older people as well. He has reached a level of fame most will only dream of, remaining humble over the years.
 Although his mother was involved with the gospel music industry, Sammie was discovered on his own. Unlike other artists who were scouted through talent searches or other avenues, his talent was uncovered at Pine Grove Elementary School.
"When I was eight years old, I got in trouble for humming during a test. I was sent to the office and they thought my voice was amazing. It is funny, but I would like to thank Mrs. Allen, if she had not sent me to the office, I would not be here today," he said.
He transferred to Charles Drew Elementary School a nearby magnet school with a special performing arts program. He and two other boys formed a group called The Wonder Three. Sammie's music teacher submitted a copy of the group's performance and sent it to Showtime at the Apollo. As a result Sammie was offered a solo performance at the Apollo in 1998.
Shortly after, an agent contacted Sammie's mother and the family relocated to Atlanta. By age 12, he had been signed to Capitol records and released From the Bottom to the Top in early 2000.
"Going platinum at age 13 and having a number one hit on the Billboard charts made it hard to be Sammie and then turn on the Sammie superstar person," he said.
Sammie took four years off and went to high school to try being a regular kid. During his high school years, he played basketball, was homecoming king, and joined the choir. He went on to say how lucky he was to have had experienced success at such a young age and had the chance to also be an average teenager.
"During my "hiatus" I learned what is most important. I love music, people, love, and the relationships I have gained. That is what is most important because when fame goes away, you are going to have those people that you care about. I'm still very down to earth and relatable. My industry peers never got that, so all they know is lights, camera, and action. Part of the reason why my fans love me so much is because I am just like them," said Sammie.
Despite his success at such a young age, Sammie says he is here to stay.
"I am not a one hit wonder. I am big on being great and having longevity. Here I am at 25 working on my third album and a mixtape. That shows I am evolving," he said.
According to Sammie, his greatest motivation comes from overcoming any obstacle that may come his way.
"Besides that, you only need a handful of friends and family, that you can call on to give advice and keep you aligned," said Sammie.
The majority of Sammie's fan base comes from college age students like himself. He encourages his peers that want to be successful with a few tips.
"There are times you may want to quit and throw in the towel, but that is what mediocre people do. It is important to surround yourself with positive people who share the same passions and visions as you do yourself," he said.
He also plans on doing a 15-20 city college tour because his fan base is primarily with college age students.
"I want to come to college campuses and perform these records and really bring them to life in a live show. I will definitely add Prairie View to that list, actually I will put that on my top five," said Sammie.