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 (https://zfrequency.com), 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.
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Independent Songwriting, Burnout & Cinematic Production with SURJ (Ep. 82)
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.
Follow SURJ (https://lnkfi.re/SURJlnk)
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
6 Oct 2026
Playing With Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer John Paris & Rene Fernandez
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 (http://www.renefernandezent.com)
Follow ZHZ Podcast (https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com)
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
29 Sept 2026
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-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
Support the Podcast: ☕️ BuyMeACoffee
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
Who has been a guest on ZHZ Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Valhalla
Bucky Cash
Byron Lacy
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
71,566
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 53 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
76
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
0
Contact ZHZ Podcast
Guest appearances
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