ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews

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

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. 4d ago

    Just Be Enough: Todd Anthony on Rediscovering Music

    Just Be Enough: Todd Anthony shares how rediscovering music and overcoming imposter syndrome led to his most authentic album yet. What happens when you stop trying to write music for everyone else and finally create the music you've always wanted to hear? In this episode of The ZHZ Podcast, we sit down with independent artist Todd Anthony to talk about rediscovering his passion after nearly two decades away from recording. Todd shares the story behind his self-produced album, "Words & Music," why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how learning to "just be enough" changed everything. We also dive into songwriting, recording, music production, live performance, creative burnout, imposter syndrome, balancing business and family, and the healing power of music. Beyond music, Todd opens up about running Peer Support Alliance, a nonprofit supporting adults living with mental illness, and why community matters. If you're a musician, songwriter, creator, or anyone who's ever questioned whether it's too late to chase a dream, this conversation is for you. Listen to Todd Anthony: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6W2DBBX0QBHiwveC10nwd7 Follow Todd Anthony: Instagram: https://instagram.com/ToddAnthonyMusic Website: https://ToddAnthonyMusic.com Live near Exton, PA? Book your own escape: https://www.eliteescape.net/ Learn more about Peer Support Alliance: https://peersupportalliance.org Enjoying the show? 👍 Like the video 💬 Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with independent artists, musicians, and creators. 🌐 Check out our website: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction & Meet Todd Anthony 00:00:42 Todd's Journey Back to Music 00:02:16 The Moment Music Became Everything 00:04:13 Saxophone, College & Finding Guitar 00:07:21 Touring, Original Bands & The Stage Rush 00:11:24 Why "Words & Music" Changed Everything 00:15:02 Recording an Album Completely Solo 00:17:23 Songwriting, Voice Memos & Capturing Inspiration 00:21:03 Why the Album Happened Now 00:23:08 Lessons from Self-Producing an Album 00:25:13 Letting Go of Perfection 00:30:41 Songs That Came Together (and Ones That Didn't) 00:35:35 Which Songs Best Represent Todd? 00:36:35 What's Next After "Words & Music"? 00:41:12 Advice for Independent Musicians 00:45:49 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 00:47:47 Rediscovering Old Passions 00:51:12 Shoutouts, Escape Rooms & Mental Health Advocacy 00:55:15 Where to Find Todd Anthony 00:57:28 Rapid Fire Round 01:08:50 Final Thoughts & Farewell

  2. Jul 14

    Rapid Fire Round: How Elena Hirsch Builds CONFIDENCE ON STAGE

    Discover how she builds CONFIDENCE ON STAGE in this high-energy Rapid Fire Round. The ZHZ Podcast reveals live performance secrets! In this Rapid Fire Round, singer-songwriter Elena Hirsch answers seven fast-paced questions about songwriting, live streaming, connecting with fans, handling unexpected moments on stage, and the mindset that fuels confident performances. From adapting to audience requests in real time to sharing what it takes to build genuine stage presence, Elena offers honest insights that every musician and performer can learn from. Whether you're an independent artist, a live performer, or simply looking to become more confident in front of an audience, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical takeaways, and plenty of laughs. If you enjoy conversations with independent artists and musicians, be sure to subscribe for more interviews, music industry discussions, and Rapid Fire Rounds from the ZHZ Podcast. Follow Elena Hirsch: 🔗 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/elena.hirsch 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4DP7IzXc1AFBcNMWpWKd8L?si=_ieGmfRTSU-FgTElrHuAxg Follow the ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com 🎙️ Subscribe for more independent music interviews, artist conversations, and music industry insights. 🎸 Follow Z Frequency for new music and updates. Chapters ➡ 00:00 First Thing I Do When Sitting Down At The Piano 00:55 Spam The Chat 01:45 Go-To Move To Turn A Random Listener Into A Fan 02:28 The One Thing In Life I Find Irresistable (Hint: Food) 03:47 I Might Actually Be Built For This 07:56 The Title If My Life Was A Movie 08:27 If Irresistible Was A Scene 11:05 You Want To Look Pretty 12:20 Twelve Year Old & Makeup at 9:30 PM 13:15 Follow Elena - Conclusion #RapidFireRound #ConfidenceOnStage #ElenaHirsch #ZHZPodcast #IndependentArtist #LivePerformance #SingerSongwriter #StagePresence #MusicPodcast #IndieMusic

  3. Jul 7

    Landing Huge Gigs With Just One Email: Elena Hirsch

    Landing huge gigs is easier than you think. Elena Hirsch reveals her "Power of the Ask" inside our latest Independent Music & Artist Interviews. 🎤💃🏻 Watch this episode to learn how Elena went from cold-emailing news stations in Detroit to opening at The Troubadour in LA. 🔗 GUEST LINKS: - LinkTree: Elena Hirsch - Spotify: Listen to Irresistible - Instagram: @elena.hirsch - TikTok: @elenahirschx - YouTube: @elenahirsch - Discord: Join the Server 🔗 OUR LINKS: - Podcast App: ZHZ Podcast - Official Site: Z Frequency - Be Our Next Guest: Inquiry Form - The Guest List on Spotify: Playlist CHAPTERS ➡ 00:00 - The Power of the Ask 00:32 - Meeting Elena Hirsch 01:23 - How she found ZHZ Podcast 04:23 - The Detroit to LA Musical Journey 06:00 - Opening for Morgan St. Jean 07:35 - The "One Email" Strategy Revealed 10:55 - Building a Band from Scratch (The Struggle) 16:31 - Persistence: Making Your Own Luck 20:45 - Breaking Down "Irresistible" 26:00 - Streaming vs. Live Audience Strategy 35:30 - Future Plans & Michigan Residency 43:00 - Advice for Independent Musicians 50:00 - Grow Your Audience Tip 56:00 - Wrap Up & Shoutouts

  4. Jun 30

    CROCHET Butterflies and DARK Pop? Briauna Rapid Fire

    CROCHET butterflies and DARK pop vibes with Briauna—our fastest Rapid Fire yet from Independent Music & Artist Interviews. 🎙️ Briauna pulled up for a Rapid Fire round that goes from wholesome to unhinged in the best way—crochet butterflies, dark pop energy, and the creative mindset behind the world she’s building as an indie artist. If you love quick questions, real answers, and finding new artists before they blow up, this one’s for you. This is exactly why we do Independent Music & Artist Interviews—to show the human behind the art. Watch the full interview episode ▶️ Full Interview episode: [LINK] Support Briauna 🩸 Pre-Save “Lobotomy” (out July 17): https://tr.ee/-gDp12c3o7   🔗 Briauna Linktree: linktr.ee/briauna.official   📩 Booking / EPK: briaunamusic.kit.com ZHZ Podcast 🎧 Subscribe / follow the show for more episodes + updates: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com   Quick CTA Hit Subscribe if you want more indie artists, real convos, and more Rapid Fire episodes like this. Chapters 00:00:00 Rapid‑Fire Kickoff & Handmade Gifts 00:03:30 Influences, Road‑Trip Pick & Creative Philosophy 00:07:00 First Songs, Childhood Stories & Early Creativity 00:10:30 Secret Languages, School Projects & Growing Up Different 00:14:00 Perfect Pitch, Sensory Overload & Musician Life 00:17:30 Storytelling, Metaphors & The Heart of Independent Music

  5. Jun 23

    Why This Indie Pop Artist Is Obsessed With Butterflies

    Discover how Briauna built a unique artist identity through butterflies, storytelling, and Independent Music & Artist Interviews. Singer-songwriter, pianist, and independent artist Briauna joins Zak and Matt on the ZHZ Podcast to share her journey from writing songs at 11 years old to building a unique "musical biosphere" rooted in storytelling, vulnerability, and artistic world-building. In this episode, we dive into her upcoming single "Lobotomy," the inspiration behind releasing three different versions of the song, the realities of navigating both the Los Angeles and Utah music scenes, and what it really takes to build a sustainable career as an independent artist. We also explore her butterfly symbolism, film scoring work, creative process, artist branding, and practical music marketing strategies for today's independent musicians. Whether you're an artist, songwriter, music fan, or someone looking for inspiration on building a creative brand, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and real-world experience. 🦋 Follow Briauna: LinkTree: http://linktr.ee/briauna.official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briauna.official/ 🎵 Pre-Save "Lobotomy": https://tr.ee/-gDp12c3o7 🎙️ Listen to More ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com If you enjoy Independent Music & Artist Interviews, artist stories, music marketing discussions, and conversations about the Utah music scene, make sure to subscribe, like, and leave a comment. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Intro & Cold Open 00:00:48 Meet Briauna: Utah, LA & Her Musical Journey 00:03:20 Inside "Lobotomy" & The Three-Version Release Strategy 00:08:33 Film Scoring, Collaboration & Creative Growth 00:13:54 The Meaning Behind "Lobotomy" & Dark Pop Storytelling 00:21:23 Building A Musical Biosphere: Butterflies & Artist Branding 00:33:07 Independent Artist Challenges, Social Media & Community 00:41:32 Music Marketing, Playlist Pitching & Release Strategy

  6. Jun 16

    Why All Artists Aren't Narcissists: Ariel Vizzini

    We smash the starving artist stereotype and explain why self-confidence in music isn't narcissistic. Is believing in your art a sign of a massive ego, or is it just survival? In this Rapid Fire 7 episode of The ZHZ Podcast, Zak Davis and Matt Allen (Z Frequency) sit down with Ariel Vizzini to dismantle the "narcissistic" starving artist stereotype.  Ariel breaks down the thin line between being a "crazy cat lady" and a confident creator, offering a raw look at how she balances a demanding 50-hour work week with high-level songwriting and production. We dive deep into the internal battle between self-criticism and the confidence required to call yourself an artist.  From stacking three-octave harmonies to the hilarious story of Zak’s bold encounter with Fishbone’s Angelo Moore, this episode covers the vulnerability and the grit it takes to move your art from a "hobby" to a way of life. Inside this Rapid Fire 7: - The Narcissism Myth: Smashing the idea that wanting to be heard makes you a narcissist. - The Inner Critic: Why the "Theater Director" is the one giving Ariel notes in the studio. - Creative Burnout: How cats (and not music) actually refill Ariel's creative battery. - The "Worst Day" Outfit: Dressing dark themes in glitter. - Honest Feedback: The struggle of sending demos to family and the "Disclaimers" we all use. - The Mystery of "Chocolate Roads": Zak and Ariel try to solve a misheard lyric mystery. Connect with Z Frequency: - Listen to our music: https://zfrequency.com - Follow us on Socials: https://seemlify.com/zfrequency Subscribe to The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com Join Zak and Matt every week as we talk music production, mixing, marketing, and sit down with the artists who are actually doing the work. Don't forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Support the Guest: - Follow Ariel Vizzini: linktr.ee/arielvizzini linktr.ee/arielvizzini - Stream her latest music: https://arielvizzini.bandcamp.com/ Chapters: 00:00 - ZHZ Rapid Fire: 7 Questions 00:12 - If your worst day ever was an outfit... 01:05 - Learning to stop "translating" yourself for others 01:47 - Why cats are the ultimate creative battery refill 02:46 - What is your motivation? The theater director's voice 03:16 - DEEP DIVE: Smashing the Artist Narcissist Stereotype 04:59 - The “Angelo Moore” story (Zak’s boldest career move) 06:18 - Why wives and moms are the hardest critics 07:42 - How music production changes the way you hear everything 08:32 - The emotional release of "The Last Exit" 09:41 - The "Chocolate Roads" misheard lyric debate

  7. Jun 12

    How TikTok Led Me to a Band That Builds an Army, Not Just Fans

    Most artists are just happy to build a following. Alice? They built an army—no, a full-blown underground universe. If you think music is just about sounds, think again. This band has navigated the chaos of 2020, doubling down on community, creativity, and authenticity, proving that true fans want more than just a playlist—they crave belonging. Imagine a sound that feels like a cyberpunk movie colliding headfirst with a post-apocalyptic dance club—dark, cinematic, and utterly hypnotic. Alice’s fusion of electronic, dark wave, and rock isn’t just genre-bending; it’s genre-defining. And the journey from late-night TikTok scroll to their ambitious double album As Above, So Below feels like discovering the secret realm where innovation and emotional intensity collide. You'll discover: how Alice turned a worldwide shutdown into a creative renaissance, crafted a fan community that's everything a modern band dreams of, and how their campaign of authentic engagement is rewriting how artists connect with listeners. The band’s latest album isn’t just music; it’s a bold statement that artists can evolve, and fans are more than just followers—they’re family. If you’re an independent artist, a music lover tired of surface-level fandom, or just someone who loves discovering those rare gems that challenge the status quo, this episode is your backstage pass to how true connection and killer tunes can reshape your entire perspective on music. Ready to be part of the Mad Hatter Army? Press play—because Alice is just getting started, and this rabbit hole’s about to get even weirder—and way more interesting. ARTIST LINKS: Official Website https://www.ilikealice.com/ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/0OEswCup9P8ou9tFbOUSE5 Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/al1ce/1257569065 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@AL1CE Bandcamp https://ilikealice.bandcamp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alicemusicofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/ilikealice Follow us at https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

  8. Jun 9

    How a Newbie Producer Finds Her Signature Sound: Ariel Vizzini

    Discover how an indie artist transformed her first song into a polished masterpiece, blending raw emotion with professional quality. Most indie artists get lost in the noise—unless you're Ariel Vizzini, who’s straight-up rewriting the rulebook. She’s a Mississippi native turned Utah sound wizard, dressing her pain in glitter and seamlessly blending vulnerability with polished, radio-ready pop. Spoiler: her secret sauce is taking raw emotion and smothering it in sparkles—because who says you can’t be deep AND dazzling? In this episode, Ariel drops truth bombs about her DIY production journey, from battling the dreaded “compression” mystique to crafting a signature sound built on honest vocals and layered personality. You'll discover why she deliberately keeps her music off streaming giants for now, how her musical theater roots influence her mixing, and her bold stance on smashing the “starving artist” stereotype—she’s here to show that following your passion can be powerful, not petty. We break down: The art of turning life's messy journal entries into addictive melodiesNavigating the psychological rollercoaster of self-doubt vs. confidenceHer unique approach to vocal play: raw, dynamic, and sometimes “accidentally too far from the mic”How her musical DNA, from Thunderhead’s Southern Rock roots to indie glam, shapes her evolving soundThe importance of authenticity in a world obsessed with perfection Connect with Z Frequency: https://zfrequency.com Subscribe to The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com Join Zak and Matt every week as we talk music production, mixing, marketing, and sit down with the artists who are actually doing the work. Don't forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Support the Guest: - Follow Ariel Vizzini: linktr.ee/arielvizzini linktr.ee/arielvizzini - Stream her latest music: https://arielvizzini.bandcamp.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:38 Ariel's Musical Journey 07:44 The Art of Mixing and Production 10:19 Exploring Unique Sound and Style 13:09 Lyrics and Emotional Connection 18:41 Ariel's Career and Creative Process 25:03 The Glittered Grief Aesthetic 27:00 Understanding Compression in Music Production 33:45 Songwriting Processes and Collaboration 41:31 High School Musical Memories 44:42 Balancing Art and Stability 47:09 The Challenge of Live Performances 51:55 Exploring Musical Influences and Genres 01:01:36 Ariel's Musical Journey: Distribution and Growth 01:05:29 The Authenticity of the Artist 01:07:08 Shoutouts and Support Systems 01:09:03 The Challenges of Music Production 01:11:02 The Soundtrack of Life: Personal Connections in Music

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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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