Sammie Pearson knows how to put on a party worth leaving the house for. Through Pretty But Wicked, her platform for booking artists she loves on stages across Los Angeles, Pearson has been the early champion of some of today’s buzziest new names, think Bassvictim, Quiet Light, and Evanora Unlimited. Next up, she’s bringing her taste to the festival circuit with And Always Forever. The event’s third year at the Echo and Echoplex this November will see a packed line-up of rising acts like Ms Gloom, Sophia Stel, and BOYG1RL. For September’s Press Play, Sammie talks five dollar parties, street tacos, and the songs she keeps coming back to, from My Bloody Valentine to Sassy 009.
What was the first show you ever threw?
Feels with French Vanilla for $5 in 2017.
Favorite kind of venue?
The best kinds of spaces are run by people who love truly music and care for the community. I love turning a space that’s not a venue into a show space for the night.
What are you eating after the club at 2 a.m.?
I’m born and raised here. Street tacos only.
What do you always have in your bag on a night out?
Cigarettes, sharpies, and hand sanitizer.
What is a song you’ll never get tired of hearing?
“December Forever” by Thoom. It’s a melancholy and brooding pop banger, and one of my most played songs last year while in my feels. Zeynab’s live sets always hit even harder than the recording, too. She performed it at my birthday show and it was heaven.
An act you’ll never get tired of seeing on a line-up?
Dylan Thom. Every live set is tighter and more lit than the previous. He is such a genuine, sweet, humble person who looks like he is having so much fun on stage and the energy is infectious for the audience. I am just constantly enamored by his immense talent and innovative songwriting. I feel so sure he will go far with his music.
What makes a good house show?
Nice neighbors.
What kills the vibe at a show?
Too much A.C. and bright lighting. Shows are supposed to be sexy.
Dream booking for And Always Forever?
Starflyer 59, The Crying Nudes, Black Kray.
Ideal show start time?
8 p.m., I like to be in bed by midnight.