ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews

In this episode, Lakai from Valhalla discusses the band's journey from high school to adulthood, their evolving sound, and their commitment to community engagement through music. They share insights on their upcoming single, the fourth annual Valhalloween event, and the importance of maintaining genuine connections with their audience. In this conversation, the hosts and guest discuss the significance of physical music media and grassroots marketing in building a loyal fanbase. They also share personal anecdotes about music's impact on their lives and provide advice for aspiring artists.

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Takeaways

• Valhalla's evolution in sound
• Community engagement through music Importance of physical music media
• Building a grassroots fanbase

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Consent
• 01:59 Valhalla's Musical Identity
• 05:07 Transitioning into Adulthood
• 08:56 New Directions in Music
• 11:58 Upcoming Releases and Events
• 16:00 Valhalloween: A Community Celebration
• 20:01 Challenges and Growth in the Music Scene
• 24:12 The Connection to Music Media
• 26:01 Grassroots Marketing Strategies
• 28:05 Advice for Aspiring Artists
• 29:10 The Soundtrack of Life
• 35:25 Rapid Fire Insights

The conversation explores the artistic journey of SURJ, focusing on his upcoming album, the emotional depth of his music, and the importance of mental health in the creative process. It highlights the balance between vulnerability and artistic expression, as well as the excitement of returning to songwriting after a period of self-discovery. The conversation explores the creative processes, challenges, and insights of music production, focusing on the experiences of independent artists. It delves into songwriting techniques, marketing strategies, and the importance of collaboration in the music industry. In this conversation, SURJ and the hosts discuss the nuances of creating music, the importance of being open to feedback, and the personal connections that music fosters. They also explore SURJ's musical influences and engage in a fun rapid-fire segment, culminating in reflections on the creative process and the significance of community in music.

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Takeaways

• Embrace vulnerability in art
• Balance creativity with mental health Embrace creativity in songwriting
• Understand your audience's needs Be open to feedback
• Music creates personal connections

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:59 Meet SURJ: The Artist's Journey
• 03:58 The Emotional Depth of Music
• 05:59 Crafting Atmospheric Soundscapes
• 08:01 The Excitement of Songwriting
• 10:08 Navigating Artistic Evolution
• 11:46 The Importance of Vulnerability in Music
• 13:53 Preparing for Live Performances
• 16:05 Mental Health and Creative Process
• 20:02 Finding Balance in Creativity
• 21:58 Reflecting on Life's Journey
• 24:40 Humor and Memories in Music
• 25:32 Creative Process and Song Selection
• 27:54 Songwriting Techniques and Tools
• 30:05 DAW Preferences and Challenges
• 31:32 Production Insights and Soundscapes
• 34:43 Collaboration and Studio Dynamics
• 36:28 Balancing Creativity and Routine
• 39:16 Marketing Strategies for Independent Artists
• 42:19 Sync Licensing and Opportunities
• 48:25 Advice for Aspiring Artists
• 50:35 Creating a Welcoming Artistic Environment
• 51:51 The Importance of Being Teachable
• 52:24 Stewarding the Audience Experience
• 53:03 Soundtrack to My Life
• 55:34 Rapid Fire Questions
• 01:04:19 Closing Thoughts and Shoutouts

The conversation features Rene, a musician and actor, discussing his journey in music and acting, including his experiences with Earth, Wind & Fire and his recent single release. The dialogue explores themes of creativity, teaching, and the importance of honesty in acting and music. The conversation explores the intricacies of music production, the importance of live instrumentation, and the personal journeys of the musicians involved. It highlights the balance between creativity and professionalism in the music industry, emphasizing the value of collaboration and adaptability in live performances. The conversation explores Rene's musical journey, cultural influences, and the impact of personal experiences on his artistry. It also delves into the collaborative efforts in music creation and the significance of language in connecting with diverse audiences.

Takeaways

• Honesty is key in acting
• Collaboration enhances creativity Importance of live instrumentation
• Adaptability in music performance Cultural background shapes artistry
• Collaboration enhances musical creativity

• Follow Rene Fernandez
• Follow ZHZ Podcast

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup
• 01:54 Health Scares in the Music Industry
• 03:50 Rene's Background in Music and Acting
• 07:55 The Importance of Honesty in Acting
• 12:04 Early Musical Influences and Experiences
• 16:00 Creating New Music and Collaborations
• 20:01 The Art of Mixing Horns
• 20:59 Career Aspirations and Future Projects
• 23:06 Unexpected Challenges on Stage
• 27:59 Transitioning to Duo Performances
• 30:02 Mindset and Motivation in Music
• 34:01 The Role of Technology in Modern Music
• 39:48 Advice for Aspiring Musicians
• 43:35 Cultural Influences on Music
• 46:01 Language and Musical Collaboration
• 49:59 Soundtrack of Life: Musical Memories
• 53:59 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections

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-instrumentalism
• Challenges 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

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Chapters

• 00:00 Podcast Preparation and Legalities
• 01:19 Nerd Culture and Music Instruments
• 02:54 Discovering the ZHZ Podcast
• 06:15 Early Musical Influences and Beginnings
• 15:04 Music Director Experience and 10CC Touring
• 23:32 Multi-Generational Performances and Classic Rock Impact
• 24:31 Challenges of Live Performance Preparation
• 25:39 Significance of EP Releases and Live Shows at Iconic Venues
• 01:06:04 Challenging Guitar Riffs and Deadlines
• 01:07:23 Comfort Spot and Decompression
• 01:08:15 Surreal Backstage Moments
• 01:24:16 Misconceptions About Touring Life

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 process
• Live performance and stage antics
• Transition from rap to rock
• Influence of British rock bands
• Use of real instruments in music production Challenges of being an independent artist
• Impact of the pandemic on music collaboration and live performances Gear and skill influence guitar sound
• Managers have a limited attention span
• Life's best moments are simple and nature-related
• Success is measured in perspective
• Music licensing can be expensive
• Hip hop and rock can learn from each other Passion for Music
• Creative Process

Chapters

• 00:00 Use of Real Instruments in Music Production
• 20:57 Navigating the Challenges of Independence
• 42:32 The Impact of the Pandemic on Music and Life
• 44:55 Influence of Gear and Skill on Guitar Sound
• 45:28 Managerial Attention Span and Music Promotion
• 46:18 Life's Best Moments and Nature Experiences
• 47:09 Perspective on Success and Music Licensing Costs
• 49:23 Lessons from Hip Hop and Rock Music
• 01:03:04 Musical Influences and Inspirations
• 01:03:49 Recording Sessions and Music Production
• 01:05:47 Rock Cliches and Songwriting Process
• 01:06:50 Overcoming Creative Blocks and Songwriting Approach
• 01:07:57 Lyricism and Song Interpretation
• 01:18:36 Music Releases and Future Projects
• 01:24:07 Guitar Collection and Dedication

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 Creativity
• Challenges of the LA Creative Scene Therapeutic nature of music
• Challenges of being an indie creator
• Fear of vulnerability in writing and performing
• Impact of music on personal growth and development
• Business side of being an artist
• Importance of consistency and persistence in pursuing a career in the arts Portishead's music has a special place in Nadine's heart
• Hypnotherapy is a go-to ritual for Nadine to reset her brain
• Nadine is determined to release more songs and is grateful for the support of her guitarist and her cat, Aphrodite

• Follow Nadine on Instagram 
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Chapters

• 00:00 Early Influences and Creative Beginnings
• 03:00 The Intersection of Music and Acting
• 05:59 The Creative Process and Artistic Expression
• 08:56 Navigating the LA Creative Scene
• 13:03 The Journey of Filmmaking and Music
• 15:59 The Passion for Music and Creative Expression
• 19:02 The Story Behind 'Dom'
• 20:26 Therapeutic Nature of Music
• 24:33 Challenges of Being an Indie Creator
• 30:44 Fear of Vulnerability in Writing and Performing
• 34:15 The Business Side of Being an Artist
• 41:45 The Love for Portishead
• 42:23 Rapid Fire Seven
• 43:15 The Creative Process and Hypnotherapy
• 47:03 Masterpiece Soundtracks and Professional Sets
• 48:33 AI Assistant and Creative Milestones
• 58:42 Podcast Journey and Shoutouts

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 music
• Importance of community in the music scene Musical Family Legacy
• Challenges of Growing an Audience
• Creating Meaningful Connections with Fans
• Upcoming Album Release and Symbolic Transition Emotional connection drives the creative process
• The 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 Music
• 03:01 Genre-Blending and Emotional Honesty
• 21:47 The Impact of Healing on Creativity
• 27:42 Musical Family Legacy
• 30:41 Challenges of Growing an Audience
• 31:08 Creating Meaningful Connections with Fans
• 44:34 Upcoming Album Release and Symbolic Transition
• 51:36 The Power of Emotional Connection
• 53:09 The Impact of Specific Songs
• 55:46 The Role of Women in Music
• 59:25 Finding Your Community
• 01:10:25 Connection at House Shows
• 01:11:15 Lessons of Recovery and Self-Honesty
• 01:13:04 The Duality of the Upcoming Album

The conversation begins with an introduction and explores Kay Fly's musical background. It then delves into her move to Salt Lake City, her early musical journey, and the recording of her 'Just Wait' album. The discussion also covers her genre experimentation, challenges in finding band members, and the concept of immortality through music. The conversation delves into the influence of music legends, the challenges of finding one's musical identity, navigating band dynamics, and the impact of personal history on artistic pursuits. It also explores the role of social media in artistic endeavors and delves into mediumship and spiritual guidance. The conversation covers topics such as psychic senses, paranormal experiences, the influence of music on life, the creative process and inspiration, grounding and supportive elements, impactful performances, and future projects and collaborations.

• Follow KayFly: KayFly Online
• Instagram & TikTok: @realkayfly

Takeaways

• Musical versatility and experimentation are key elements of Kay Fly's artistic journey.
• The concept of immortality through music is a driving force behind Kay Fly's passion for creating and sharing her music. The importance of staying true to one's musical identity
• The impact of personal history on artistic pursuits Exploration of psychic senses and paranormal experiences
• Influence of music on life and creative inspiration

• Follow ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Musical Background
• 01:03 Moving to Salt Lake City and Musical Versatility
• 03:14 Early Musical Journey and Unhoused Experience
• 05:09 Recording 'Just Wait' Album and Emotional Impact
• 17:47 Genre Experimentation and Immortality Through Music
• 24:26 Challenges in Finding Band Members and Immortality Through Music
• 26:17 The Influence of Music Legends
• 26:59 Finding Your Musical Identity
• 28:06 Navigating Band Dynamics
• 29:18 Challenges in Music Pursuits
• 30:44 Exploring Different Music Genres
• 32:07 The Impact of Personal History on Artistry
• 43:02 The Role of Social Media in Artistic Pursuits
• 46:23 Mediumship and Spiritual Guidance
• 54:42 Exploring Psychic Senses
• 55:11 Paranormal Experiences
• 57:21 Influence of Music on Life
• 01:00:15 Creative Process and Inspiration
• 01:06:33 Grounding and Supportive Elements
• 01:11:12 Impactful Performances
• 01:15:08 Future Projects and Collaborations

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.com
• Follow ZHZ Podcast: www.zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Takeaways

• Tour life and the challenges of staying healthy on the road
• The drummer's journey and the band's history
• The success and positive atmosphere of the Everwild festival Reggae rock movement embraces positivity and community
• Challenges of collaboration and the importance of persistence
• Influence of drumming legends on musical evolution
• 'First Light' album is intentionally composed for a cohesive and positive experience
• Music has a powerful impact on mood and mindset
• Commitment to creating timeless and resonant music Album creation and production process
• Music video production and nature-inspired visuals
• The ongoing tour and collaboration with other artists
• Soundtrack to Rex Larkman's life and his dream drum kit Musical diversity
• Tour experiences
• Creative process

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting
• 02:18 Tropidelic's Music and Tour Life
• 03:01 The Drummer's Journey and Band's History
• 21:14 The Everwild Festival and Positive Atmosphere
• 23:11 Evolution of the Reggae Rock Movement
• 24:03 Challenges of Collaboration
• 36:15 Influence of Drumming Legends
• 44:25 Intentional Composition of 'First Light' Album
• 47:14 Impact of Music on Mood
• 48:47 Commitment to Timeless Music
• 49:44 Album Creation and Production Process
• 50:27 Music Video Production and Nature-Inspired Visuals
• 53:18 Ongoing Tour and Collaboration with Other Artists
• 01:06:12 Soundtrack to Rex Larkman's Life and Dream Drum Kit
• 00:00 Musical Diversity and Influences
• 01:11:24 Tour Experiences and Red Rocks
• 01:19:31 The Creative Process and First Light

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.

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🎶 Curated playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/207DJA6ZPtbfNSrG8NKxlA?si=U88ZpKEWQB2LTiRF_4bwBw

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