Songwriter Series: Sam Tunkel + Mike Buscio

Sam Tunkel is a New Jersey based singer/songwriter who heavily values supporting fellow artists through collaboration and attending live music. Sam is a Junior at the Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts studying music where he has also founded the Rutgers Songwriters' Society. Outside of school, Sam is an experienced live performer, playing at events and venues such as the Light Of Day Foundation in Asbury Park, Crossroads in Garwood, The Rock Shack in Somerville, The Coffee Box in Rahway, Harvest Moon Brewery in New Brunswick, and more. Recently, in August of 2025, Sam released his debut album "Out There" into the world. Other notable releases are the "Your Daily Dose" EP from 2023, and singles such as "Highway Song", "The Signal", "Young Man Without A Purpose Blues", and more.

Mike Buscio is a singer-songwriter from Jersey City, NJ, whose music blends heartfelt storytelling with years of stage experience. He first made his mark as a member of A True Story, a Lyndhurst, NJ-based band where he honed his craft performing both original songs and crowd-pleasing covers. Since then, Mike has built a reputation as a versatile artist, captivating audiences as both a band member and solo performer.

With years of live shows, Mike has brought his sound to iconic New Jersey venues, including the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ. His performances reflect not only technical skill but also a deep connection to the local music scene, where he has become known for his ability to engage audiences with sincerity and energy.

Whether playing stripped-down acoustic sets or full-band shows, Mike’s music carries the authenticity of an artist who has lived and breathed his craft. His journey from local stages to established venues showcases a dedication to songwriting and performance that continues to evolve. Fans can expect a mix of raw emotion, melodic hooks, and the kind of lived-in experience that only comes from years of playing, writing, and sharing music.