ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews

Zak Davis & Matt Allen
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

The ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews connects you with the artists shaping independent music today. Hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of Z Frequency, each episode features authentic conversations with indie musicians about their music, creative journey, and life beyond the stage. For artists, it's a platform to share their story and reach new listeners. For fans, it's a place to discover your next favorite band. 🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe now to discover your next favorite artist and join us inside the world of independent music. 🎙️ Want to be a guest on the show? Click here

  1. 6d ago ·  Video

    The Truth About Playing With 10cc & The Royal Albert Hall

    The conversation covers a range of topics, including podcasting, music, live performances, and the challenges of the music industry. It delves into the experiences of the guest, Andrew Park, as a musician, multi-instrumentalist, and music director, as well as his involvement in various musical projects and performances. The conversation covers a range of topics, including multi-generational performances, the impact of classic rock music, the challenges of preparing for live performances, and the significance of EP releases and live shows at iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall. The conversation covers topics such as touring with a band, essential gear on tour, challenging guitar riffs, comfort spots, and surreal backstage moments. The guest shares insights into his experiences and personal preferences related to music and touring. The conversation covers various aspects of life on tour, including humorous mishaps with a bullhorn, the challenges of laundry on tour, and the misconceptions about the glamorous side of touring. The discussion also delves into the artist's teenage music influences and the DIY nature of cigar box guitars. Takeaways Multi-instrumentalismChallenges of live performances Multi-generational performances are a hit with audiences.Preparation and dedication are crucial for successful live performances.EP releases and live shows at iconic venues hold significant value for artists. Touring with a band can lead to unique and comfortable experiences.The phone is an essential piece of gear for staying connected and managing various tasks on tour. Touring life is not always glamorous and involves mundane tasks like laundry and unexpected mishaps.The DIY nature of cigar box guitars and their historical significance as a result of necessity.The enduring impact of music from one's teenage years and the memories associated with it.Follow Andrew Park • Website • Instagram Support the Podcast: ☕️ BuyMeACoffee  Chapters 00:00 Podcast Preparation and Legalities01:19 Nerd Culture and Music Instruments02:54 Discovering the ZHZ Podcast06:15 Early Musical Influences and Beginnings15:04 Music Director Experience and 10CC Touring23:32 Multi-Generational Performances and Classic Rock Impact24:31 Challenges of Live Performance Preparation25:39 Significance of EP Releases and Live Shows at Iconic Venues01:06:04 Challenging Guitar Riffs and Deadlines01:07:23 Comfort Spot and Decompression01:08:15 Surreal Backstage Moments01:24:16 Misconceptions About Touring Life

  2. Sep 22 ·  Video

    The Cost of Creative Freedom: Leaving Hip-Hop for Reverse Pathogen

    The conversation covers the pre-recording process, live performance and stage antics, the transition from rap to rock, the influence of British rock bands, and the use of real instruments in music production. It delves into the intricacies of pre-recording, the challenges and excitement of live performances, the shift from rap to rock music, the impact of British rock bands, and the preference for real instruments in music production. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by independent artists, including competition with well-funded artists, the struggle of promoting music and reaching real listeners, and the financial returns in the music industry. Additionally, the impact of the pandemic on music collaboration, live performances, and changes in perspective and approach to life are explored. The conversation covers the influence of gear and skill on guitar sound, the limited attention span of managers, the significance of life's best moments and nature experiences, the perspective on success and the costs of music licensing, and the lessons that hip hop and rock music can learn from each other. The conversation with Clayton covers a wide range of topics related to music, creativity, and the music industry. From discussing musical influences and inspirations to exploring the songwriting process, recording sessions, and the challenges of overcoming creative blocks, Clayton shares insights into his passion for music and the depth of his creative process. Additionally, he provides valuable perspectives on lyricism, song interpretation, and the significance of music releases and future projects. The conversation also delves into Clayton's extensive guitar collection and his unwavering dedication to his craft. Takeaways Pre-recording processLive performance and stage anticsTransition from rap to rockInfluence of British rock bandsUse of real instruments in music production Challenges of being an independent artistImpact of the pandemic on music collaboration and live performances Gear and skill influence guitar soundManagers have a limited attention spanLife's best moments are simple and nature-relatedSuccess is measured in perspectiveMusic licensing can be expensiveHip hop and rock can learn from each other Passion for MusicCreative Process Chapters 00:00 Use of Real Instruments in Music Production20:57 Navigating the Challenges of Independence42:32 The Impact of the Pandemic on Music and Life44:55 Influence of Gear and Skill on Guitar Sound45:28 Managerial Attention Span and Music Promotion46:18 Life's Best Moments and Nature Experiences47:09 Perspective on Success and Music Licensing Costs49:23 Lessons from Hip Hop and Rock Music01:03:04 Musical Influences and Inspirations01:03:49 Recording Sessions and Music Production01:05:47 Rock Cliches and Songwriting Process01:06:50 Overcoming Creative Blocks and Songwriting Approach01:07:57 Lyricism and Song Interpretation01:18:36 Music Releases and Future Projects01:24:07 Guitar Collection and Dedication

  3. Sep 15 ·  Video

    Nadine Emrich on Balancing Acting, Music, and the Indie Artist Grind in LA

    Nadine Emrich, an LA-based songwriter, vocalist, and working actress, shares her journey from childhood music experiences to pursuing a career in the creative industry. She discusses her creative process, the challenges of the LA creative scene, and her experiences in acting and music. Nadine also talks about her film 'Sweet Cider' and her focus on getting her music seen and heard. The conversation covers topics such as the therapeutic nature of music, the challenges of being an indie creator, the fear of vulnerability in writing and performing, and the impact of music on personal growth and development. It also delves into the business side of being an artist and the importance of consistency and persistence in pursuing a career in the arts. Nadine Emrich shares her love for Portishead and discusses her creative process, hypnotherapy, and upcoming milestones in her career. She also gives a shoutout to her guitarist and her beloved cat, Aphrodite. Takeaways Multifaceted CreativityChallenges of the LA Creative Scene Therapeutic nature of musicChallenges of being an indie creatorFear of vulnerability in writing and performingImpact of music on personal growth and developmentBusiness side of being an artistImportance of consistency and persistence in pursuing a career in the arts Portishead's music has a special place in Nadine's heartHypnotherapy is a go-to ritual for Nadine to reset her brainNadine is determined to release more songs and is grateful for the support of her guitarist and her cat, Aphrodite Follow Nadine on Instagram Subscribe to the ZHZ PodcastBe A Guest On The Show Chapters 00:00 Early Influences and Creative Beginnings03:00 The Intersection of Music and Acting05:59 The Creative Process and Artistic Expression08:56 Navigating the LA Creative Scene13:03 The Journey of Filmmaking and Music15:59 The Passion for Music and Creative Expression19:02 The Story Behind 'Dom'20:26 Therapeutic Nature of Music24:33 Challenges of Being an Indie Creator30:44 Fear of Vulnerability in Writing and Performing34:15 The Business Side of Being an Artist41:45 The Love for Portishead42:23 Rapid Fire Seven43:15 The Creative Process and Hypnotherapy47:03 Masterpiece Soundtracks and Professional Sets48:33 AI Assistant and Creative Milestones58:42 Podcast Journey and Shoutouts

  4. Sep 8 ·  Video

    Elaine Rojas: Self-Producing Alt-Pop & Finding Audience Without Algorithms

    Elaine Rojas, a Connecticut-based artist and producer, shares her journey of pursuing original music as a craft and the emotional honesty in her music. She discusses her genre-blending style and the importance of community in the music scene. Elaine also reflects on her healing journey and the impact it has had on her creative process and approach to music. Elaine Rojas shares her musical family background and the influence of her grandfather on her love for music. She discusses her early exposure to music and the impact of her mother's encouragement. The conversation transitions to the challenges of growing an audience as an independent artist and the importance of creating meaningful connections with fans. The discussion concludes with the announcement of Elaine's upcoming album release and her decision to cut her hair as a symbolic transition. The conversation covers a range of topics, including personal experiences, music, and the creative process. It delves into the impact of specific songs on the guest's life and the importance of emotional connection in songwriting. The conversation also explores the role of women in music and the significance of finding one's community. Elaine Rojas discusses her connection with the audience at house shows, the lessons of recovery and self-honesty, and the duality of her upcoming album. Takeaways Emotionally honest musicImportance of community in the music scene Musical Family LegacyChallenges of Growing an AudienceCreating Meaningful Connections with FansUpcoming Album Release and Symbolic Transition Emotional connection drives the creative processThe impact of specific songs on an individual's life can be profound House shows create a unique and intimate connection with the audience.Self-honesty and recovery have taught Elaine to compare her insides to other people's outsides.Elaine's upcoming album reflects the duality of light and darkness within her, embracing both sides of her experience. Follow Elaine Rojas: https://linktr.ee/elainerojasmusic Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Pursuing Original Music03:01 Genre-Blending and Emotional Honesty21:47 The Impact of Healing on Creativity27:42 Musical Family Legacy30:41 Challenges of Growing an Audience31:08 Creating Meaningful Connections with Fans44:34 Upcoming Album Release and Symbolic Transition51:36 The Power of Emotional Connection53:09 The Impact of Specific Songs55:46 The Role of Women in Music59:25 Finding Your Community01:10:25 Connection at House Shows01:11:15 Lessons of Recovery and Self-Honesty01:13:04 The Duality of the Upcoming Album

  5. Aug 25 ·  Video

    Rex Larkman of Tropidelic: Touring, Collabs & Crafting First Light

    The conversation covers topics such as the band's music, tour life, podcasting, and the Everwild festival. It also delves into the band's history, the drummer's journey, and the challenges of balancing music with college. The conversation covers the evolution of the reggae rock movement, the challenges of collaboration, the influence of drumming legends, and the intentional composition of the 'First Light' album. It also explores the impact of music on mood and the band's commitment to creating timeless music. The conversation covers the creation of an album, the production process, music videos, and the ongoing tour. It also delves into the soundtrack of Rex Larkman's life and his dream drum kit. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including musical influences, tour experiences, and the creative process behind Tropidelic's music. Rex Larkman shares insights on the band's unique blend of genres and the impact of their music on listeners. Follow Tropidelic: www.tropidelic.comFollow ZHZ Podcast: www.zhzpodcast.riverside.com Takeaways Tour life and the challenges of staying healthy on the roadThe drummer's journey and the band's historyThe success and positive atmosphere of the Everwild festival Reggae rock movement embraces positivity and communityChallenges of collaboration and the importance of persistenceInfluence of drumming legends on musical evolution'First Light' album is intentionally composed for a cohesive and positive experienceMusic has a powerful impact on mood and mindsetCommitment to creating timeless and resonant music Album creation and production processMusic video production and nature-inspired visualsThe ongoing tour and collaboration with other artistsSoundtrack to Rex Larkman's life and his dream drum kit Musical diversityTour experiencesCreative process Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting02:18 Tropidelic's Music and Tour Life03:01 The Drummer's Journey and Band's History21:14 The Everwild Festival and Positive Atmosphere23:11 Evolution of the Reggae Rock Movement24:03 Challenges of Collaboration36:15 Influence of Drumming Legends44:25 Intentional Composition of 'First Light' Album47:14 Impact of Music on Mood48:47 Commitment to Timeless Music49:44 Album Creation and Production Process50:27 Music Video Production and Nature-Inspired Visuals53:18 Ongoing Tour and Collaboration with Other Artists01:06:12 Soundtrack to Rex Larkman's Life and Dream Drum Kit00:00 Musical Diversity and Influences01:11:24 Tour Experiences and Red Rocks01:19:31 The Creative Process and First Light

  6. Aug 11

    Making Music on Your Terms: How Mark Miller Embraces the DIY Spirit

    How do you start releasing music after writing privately for decades? Mark Miller shares how he began putting out songs in his mid‑fifties—learning Logic, recording with affordable gear, and finding a creative process that fits real life. This interview is for independent musicians, late‑starting songwriters, and home‑recording artists wondering if it’s ever “too late” to begin again. Mark, a songwriter from St. Louis, talks with Zak and Matt about bedroom recording, mixing in different environments, writing across decades, and keeping human roughness in the final production. He also explains why he makes music for fun rather than chasing touring or streaming numbers. We cover his latest release “The Girl Who Says No,” his upcoming track “Nobody,” his love of Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, the Descendents, Bob Dylan, and Dave Brubeck, plus his DIY builds—from a foot controller to a Raspberry Pi synth and cigar‑box guitars. A relaxed conversation about authenticity, creative confidence, and learning by doing. Mark’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to return to an old passion. Key Takeaway - It is never too late to release music or return to an old creative passion. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:22 – Meet Mark Miller 05:10 – Why He Started Releasing Music Later 15:32 – Recording, Gear & Human Sound 25:52 – Songwriting & Staying Authentic 41:32 – Building Connections 49:36 – DIY Projects 56:13 – Soundtrack To My Life 01:00:18 – Rapid Fire 7 01:14:37 – Final Message Guest Links • Stream The Girl Who Said No: https://open.spotify.com/album/3YuGJdQYxzsnCw74ZfO2jM?si=E8PETZ6RR7u649nH_7Oiaw • Mark Miller on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1XCOGhNPRMIk4zmPnINeko?si=m0D6sEw8QkmzTJVvQgCsHg 🎙️ About The ZHZ Podcast The ZHZ Podcast spotlights independent artists, producers, engineers, and creators—digging into songwriting, recording, mixing, live performance, music marketing, video creation, and the real work behind building a creative life. 🌐 Watch & listen: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com 🎵 Z Frequency: https://zfrequency.com 🎤 Be a guest: https://forms.office.com/r/WwF9RLGgg 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zhzpodcast/ 🎧 Start your podcast with Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=zak-davi Disclosure: We may receive a small commission if you sign up through our Riverside link. 🎶 Curated playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/207DJA6ZPtbfNSrG8NKxlA?si=U88ZpKEWQB2LTiRF_4bwBw #ZHZPodcast #IndependentMusic #ArtistInterviews #Songwriter #HomeRecording

  7. Aug 4

    What You Learn From Nick Stefanacci’s Genre-Hopping Career

    The conversation covers Nick Stefanacci's diverse musical background, including his experiences with international music and his journey as a musician. It also delves into his album releases and his approach to singing in the studio and live performances. The conversation delves into the influence of Latin music on the artist's work, the importance of versatility in the independent music world, and the need for adaptability and flexibility in musical genres. The conversation delves into the challenges of exposure and social media in the music industry, the impact of streaming platforms on music distribution, the art of releasing albums vs. singles, and the role of branding in music. The conversation delves into the subjective nature of success, highlighting the importance of happiness as a measure of success. Additionally, the significance of confidence and swagger in the music industry is emphasized, showcasing their role in achieving success. Takeaways Diverse musical backgroundInternational music experiences VersatilityInfluence of Latin MusicAdaptability in the Independent Music World Branding is essential for musiciansChallenges of exposure and social media in the music industry Success is subjective and can be defined by happinessConfidence and swagger are important for success in the music industry 🎧 Listen to the full episode, subscribe, and find more resources: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com   👉 Follow Nick Stefanacci on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstefanaccimusic/   🔥 Subscribe to the ZHZ Podcast for weekly episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzC7AFK7Kl3ivHV7_DlbSgg?sub_confirmation=1   🎵 Check out our band, Z Frequency: https://www.zfrequency.com   🎤 Be a guest on the show: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/WwF9RLGgg1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction01:22 Nick Stefanacci's Musical Journey19:31 Album Releases and Singing20:31 Influence of Latin Music36:18 Versatility in Music38:09 The Challenge of Exposure and Social Media41:11 The Impact of Streaming Platforms on Music Distribution42:09 The Art of Releasing Albums vs. Singles53:34 The Role of Branding in Music01:10:31 Defining Success01:12:23 The Importance of Confidence and Swagger

  8. Jul 28

    How You Keep Creating When You Wear Every Hat | Nayadnara

    Nayadnara and Galiyano join Zak and Matt to break down their new Afro-fusion/UK Garage single, "With a Little Help." The duo gets real about the grit of independent music: wearing every hat, beating imposter syndrome, and building a creative partnership across state lines. Plus, a deep dive into the Soundtrack to My Life and Rapid Fire rounds. Real talk for every artist doing it all themselves. Follow Nayadnara & Galiyano - Nayadnara: www.nayadnara.com - Galiyano: https://linktr.ee/galiyano Catch Up With The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

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About

The ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews connects you with the artists shaping independent music today. Hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of Z Frequency, each episode features authentic conversations with indie musicians about their music, creative journey, and life beyond the stage. For artists, it's a platform to share their story and reach new listeners. For fans, it's a place to discover your next favorite band. 🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe now to discover your next favorite artist and join us inside the world of independent music. 🎙️ Want to be a guest on the show? Click here

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