Born February 24, 1958, to modest carpenters from Kaplan, Samuel Paul Kershaw grew up like most Louisianans – working hard, saying “ma’am,†and going to church on Sundays. The tragic loss of his father at age 12 matured him early, and sent Sammy looking for a way to earn a living and do what he loved best – sing.
Sammy began playing in honky-tonks in Lafayette with Louisiana legend J.B. Pere. He realized the music he played not only spoke to him, but seemed to inspire those who listened. Fortunate to have been groomed early by veterans in the industry, Sammy made a successful go at a professional singing career. He has more than one platinum album to his name and many successful country hits, including “Love of My Life†and “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful.â€
Sammy’s long career in music has done more than let him sing; it has allowed him privileged glances into the lives of fans from every walk of life. Connected by verse, he has been invited into American communities large and small, sharing not as guest but as trusted friend in the triumphs and struggles of their lives.
Sammy has had unique opportunities to effect change, especially in the lives of people in Louisiana. He established the Sammy Kershaw Foundation in his hometown of Kaplan, donating millions of dollars for the betterment of poverty-stricken children.
Now, he broadens his efforts, bringing a message of reform and growth to all people in Louisiana as he runs for Lieutenant Governor. He is joined in his efforts by his five children and two grandchildren.
A Message From Sammy
"Let me start by thanking my family and my friends for your support these past 5 months. You have been an incredible source of strength. To the thousands of supporters who have given me your time, your financial support, your prayers and your vote – I am forever grateful for your belief in me. You have humbled me and I will never forget your kind words and your selflessness to help my campaign.
To Mr. Landrieu, I say congratulations. You ran a clean and honest campaign and I commend you for sticking to the issues. I challenge you to spend the next four years getting to know the whole state of Louisiana and promoting all of its people. The whole state has something to offer the rest of the country and the world.
While the final tally did not go our way, my plans and dreams for this state are not going to end in the voting booth. I intend to take the crux of my platform and begin working with many of the business owners and entrepreneurs I have come to know to make these dreams for Louisiana a reality. I know what this state could be and I challenge each of you to do your part and demand your leaders be accountable and make good on the promises that have been made these last few months.
I remain motivated to work for a positive difference. I will continue to be an ambassador for this state and I will continue to be a voice for Louisiana.
Thank you again for your support and I look forward to visiting with many of you in the very near future to talk about ways that we can work together to build a brighter and stronger Louisiana.
God Bless You and God Bless Louisiana."
- Sammy Kershaw