IT'S ABOUT THE MUSIC, NOT THE MAN!

"Music, Film, Dance, and Art are my weapons for peace."
- Sam "The Man" Burns

"I love to enlighten and bring people together."
- Sam "The Man" Burns

Honored by the City He Helped Move

Sam "The Man" Burns spent more than four decades enriching Washington, D.C.'s musical and cultural landscape.

His contributions were formally recognized when Mayor Muriel Bowser proclaimed May 31, 2020, as Sam "The Man" Burns Day of Remembrance.

His legacy is also commemorated through the honorary designation of Sam "The Man" Burns Way, located near the original 18th Street Lounge-the longest-running home for his legendary Underground Soul Solution gatherings-and in the heart of a neighborhood where his musical influence extended across numerous venues.

These honors recognize not only his musical accomplishments, but also his lifelong commitment to community, creativity, inclusion, and bringing people together.

Gone But Not Forgotten

Help us honor the memory of Sam Burns

For more than forty years, Sam "The Man" Burns kept D.C. residents reveling on the dance floor, getting down to his signature deep house sound. More than just a DJ, Sam was an artist that brought crowds together for generations. He was a mainstay in many iconic dance clubs and a force of good in our community.

On March 7, 2020, Sam passed away, leaving behind his son Mason and a rich tradition of music, activism and love. Sam "The Man" Burns Legacy Foundation works to continue Sam's spirit by supporting musicians and artists. Donate today to help support our local community.

The man, the myth, the mentor

Throughout Sam's decades-long career, he spent extensive time mentoring younger artists and DJs. He gave his time and talents freely, working hard to keep the local music scene vibrant. In this tradition, Sam "The Man" Burns Legacy Foundation uses donated funds to support youth arts and music programs.

Help us preserve the music, history, and cultural contributions of Sam "The Man" Burns while creating opportunities for future generations through education, artistic expression, and community engagement.



To contribute through Zelle, scan the QR code using your banking app or search for stmb57. Please confirm STMB LEGACY as the recipient before sending.

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Driven by passion, led by love

At the core of Sam's DJ career was a deep love and respect for music. He was dedicated to his craft and his tracklists could get just about anyone on the dance floor. Sam "The Man" Burns Legacy Foundation is dedicated to helping aspiring artists follow their passion and continue Sam's spirit.