Sammy Hopkins started his musical career in his hometown of Richmond, playing saxophone with his group, Spiritual Rhythm Boys, touring the Midwest in the mid-30’s.  Hopkins played in big band groups throughout the 30’s and 40’s, in venues like The Cotton Club, the Apollo, the Savoy, and the Lyric in Chicago.

Hopkins made Columbus his home, continuing to play in jazz ensembles as he raised his family – and held “day jobs” that led him to retire from the Columbus City Treasurer’s Office in 1977. His talent in the music industry was widely-known and well-respected.  He was still being recognized for his musical legacy just prior to his death in 2004, at age 88, with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Olde Towne East Jazz Association.