By Setota Hailemariam

The last couple of years have been pretty good to Sampha — not many can boast they’ve collabed with or produced for the likes of Drake, Frank Ocean and Solange within the past five years.

2017 is the year he’s sure to blow up in his own right, though, thanks to his soon-to-be-released debut album, Process, which drops Feb. 3 — only a couple days before he brings his talents to the 9:30 Club in D.C. on Feb. 8.

Hailing from South London, Sampha Sisay first took off in 2011 after the success of SBTRKT’s debut, on which he played a major role through his features on seven out of 13 tracks. He joined SBTRKT on tour and released the EP Dual shortly after, adding to the already growing buzz about him.

Nothing was the same, though, after he was featured on Drake’s 2013 hit “Too Much,” off the fittingly titled record Nothing Was the Same.

You’ve probably heard it, or at least the song’s hook — his vulnerable vocals over a stirring piano background, coupled with Drake being, well, Drake, made it inescapable for a while and helped him on his way to becoming a household name.

Sampha’s sure to bring his typical soulful stylings and electronic-inspired production to his new album, as well as the 9:30 stage. Get your tickets here or here to listen to some of his old jams and some new ones.

Featured Photo Credit: Feature photo courtesy of Sampha on Facebook.

Setota Hailemariam is a freshman journalism major and can be reached at setotah98@gmail.com.