What was your given birth name?
Magnús Samúel Gunnarsson.
Why did you change your name?
I have always been called Sammi. Sammi is a nickname derived from Samuel, which used to be my middle name. However, I never really felt a connection to my first or middle names, so I decided to let go of both Magnus and Samuel and replace them with Sammi. At the same time, I chose my grandmother’s last name (Richter), which simply sounds better and fits more naturally with a nickname like Sammi. The Richter family name originates from Roskilde in Denmark and came to Iceland around the middle of the 1700s. Before that, it likely traces back to Germany, although the exact origins are unclear. At some point, a member of the family is believed to have worked in the legal profession.
How far can you trace back your roots?
The furthest I can trace my family back is to the year 740, to a Viking called “Úlfur Óargi”.
How long have you been a Tour Guide?
I have been a Tour Guide since 2013, Bus Driver since 2009 and a Taxi Driver since 2004.
Can you share links to your Spotify playlists?
1. Icelandic Artists Playlist
Spotify Link2. Mixed English Playlist
Spotify Link3. Here is my own orginal song, I am not the singer, but I did write and produce this song. The singers name is Mason Douglas.
Spotify Link
What is that tattoo on my hand?
It is a magical rune dating back over a thousand years. According to old belief, it is supposed to keep away evil spirits. I discovered the design on an ancient bed panel preserved in the National Museum of Iceland.
