Gabby Samone quickly emerged as a fan-favorite on “American Idol” season 23, wowing both the judges and viewers week after week with her powerhouse vocals. During her run on the show, she effortlessly delivered iconic performances of classics by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, ultimately earning a spot in the Top 7 before her elimination.
Samone is back in the spotlight and kicking off her music career with a major announcement. The songstress is set to release her debut single, “Complicated,” on January 16, and fans can’t wait to hear her new sound.
Gabby Samone Is Releasing Her Very First Single, ‘Complicated’
Gabby Samone’s “American Idol” journey may have come to an end, but she has since been busy working on her music career. In a recent Instagram post, Samone announced that she is releasing her very first single, titled “Complicated,” on Friday, January 16, which will be available on all streaming platforms that day.
A press release about Samone’s debut single reads: “After a breakout year defined by growing momentum and mounting anticipation for original music, ‘Complicated’ marks a pivotal moment in Samone’s journey … Samone officially steps into her next era with a song that introduces her stunning vocals and artistry on her own terms.”
After captivating audiences with her standout vocals on Idol, Samone is now channeling those same emotions into her own music. The press release also teased the song, which centers on “revisiting a love that once caused heartbreak.”
The release continued, even sharing the lyric, “Questions, like will we make it this time/Is it worth the rewind” capture Gabby’s vulnerability and honesty, underscoring why she is establishing herself as one of R&B’s most compelling new artists.”
Samone Is Giving off ’90s Vibes With Her New Song
In another Instagram post teasing her new song, Samone shared that she was working on visuals for “Complicated.” The songstress revealed that the visuals were “giving very much ’90s, east coast,” a claim that certainly rang true as her look channeled unmistakable Aaliyah and Janet Jackson-inspired vibes.
Fans will get an early look at her new track when Samone performs the song on Wednesday, January 14, during an appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” The performance will also mark her first television performance of her new single.
Since her run on “American Idol,” Samone has kept busy with her music career. She’s secured her first headlining tour, “Gabby Samone: Live at City Winery,” and most recently, ended 2025 singing the National Anthem during the Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots game to a packed stadium. The Baltimore native also returned to her hometown, where she performed Christmas classics during the city’s annual tree-lighting ceremony.
Inspired by artists like Whitney Houston, SZA, and Fantasia Barrino, Samone is carving out her own path and positioning herself to become the next generation of powerhouse voices in R&B.
