Sam Grow’s Cover of ‘Bring It on Home to Me’ Has Certified Substance [Watch]

Sam Grow has literally been playing a version of Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home to Me” since he before he owned his first guitar. It’s the song that helped convince his father to buy him a guitar of his own, and it’s a song that’s influenced his original music. Listen to this newcomer’s acoustic version of this hit from 1962 during this ToC video exclusive.

Cooke’s original is a piano-heavy ballad, while this version from the Maryland-raised Grow features just him and his acoustic. It’s slower and over a minute longer than the original, but the modern-day country version is just as personal.

“Baby baby, bring it to me / Bring your sweet love / Bring it on home to me,” Grow moans as his fingers work the fret board. It’s the kind of raw acoustic performance that gets a big response, and it does. Despite not having a record deal, this self-made artist has sold over 30,000 copies of two albums while building a strong fan base up and down the Northeast.

When Grow was 14, his dad said he'd only buy him a guitar if he learned some songs with substance. An Elvis Presley song was his first try, and while dad was impressed, it wasn't enough. "Bring It On Home To Me" was the "substance" song that earned him the ax, a Fender purchased at a local music shop. Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and George Jones were a few of Dad's other favorites, and they too became influences on young Sam Grow.

Last month he played at the CMA Music Festival, and his music has been featured on SiriusXM’s “On the Horizon.” “Is It You” is his new single. While faster, one still hears the soul stylings on the debut track. Learn more from Grow at his official website.

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