How AI Is Changing the Music Game (And What's Next for Indie Artists)

How AI Is Changing the Music Game (And What's Next for Indie Artists)

Author: Zak Davis & Matt Allen March 31, 2026 Duration: 12:06

Ready to get the scoop on where independent artists are headed? This episode dives into the wild world of indie music, social media hustle, and why being authentic is your best shot at success. Plus, a sprinkle of legendary collabs and some hilarious live stream stories.

In this episode:

  • Why authenticity wins every time for indie artists
  • The funniest live stream mishap (spoiler: wine involved)
  • Touring versus studio life—what feels more like home?
  • The genre that would make a killer video game theme song
  • The significance of emojis in your branding—star power!
  • Which legendary rock guitarist would you love to jam with—dead or alive?
  • The one sound you should ban from all music
  • Your future-proof strategies to thrive as an independent artist
  • The impact of AI on music creation—friend or foe?
  • Practical tips for social media growth and playlist pitching

Chapters:

00:00 - The future of indie music & standing out without the mainstream

02:58 - The importance of staying authentic in today's digital age

04:59 - The future of indie music and how to maintain success

Resources & Links:

*   Stream”San Francisco Safari": https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/lifewithdistortionandjanaitis/san-francisco-safari/

*   https://www.instagram.com/janaitis_official

*   https://janaitis.bandcamp.com/

🎙️ About Us:

ZHZ Podcast is your backstage pass to the music universe, hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of the Reggae‑Rock‑Ska‑Alternative band Z Frequency. We explore artist stories, industry insights, creative breakthroughs, and the heartbeat of independent music—from the Utah scene to rising talent everywhere. Each episode blends authenticity, curiosity, and the magic that keeps musicians creating. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a dedicated fan, you’re part of this journey with us.

Bonus: Want to get on a live session with this crew? Drop a DM, or join their Insta Live. Musicians supporting musicians — that’s what it’s all about.


There's a particular energy to music made outside the mainstream, and ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene digs right into the heart of it. Hosts Zak Davis and Matt Allen, from the Z Frequency project, use their platform to amplify the voices often heard only in local venues or home studios. Each episode feels like a conversation among friends, one that just happens to be packed with the kind of practical insights and honest stories that artists usually share after the show. You'll hear from emerging independent musicians not only about their creative process but also about the real, unglamorous work of building a career from the ground up. While the pulse of Utah's vibrant local scene provides a consistent backdrop, the discussions here resonate with anyone curious about the DIY ethos shaping modern culture. This podcast serves as a vital connection point, offering listeners an authentic look at the people and passion behind the tracks. It’s for fans who want to discover their next favorite artist before anyone else and for creators looking for camaraderie and actionable advice. Tune in for genuine interviews that skip the superficial talk and get straight to what matters in independent music.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews
Podcast Episodes
Rex Larkman of Tropidelic: Touring, Collabs & Crafting First Light [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:27:04
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…
Making Music on Your Terms: How Mark Miller Embraces the DIY Spirit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:13
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 th…
What You Learn From Nick Stefanacci’s Genre-Hopping Career [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:34
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 i…
How You Keep Creating When You Wear Every Hat | Nayadnara [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:39
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, an…
Just Be Enough: Todd Anthony on Rediscovering Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:08
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 m…
Rapid Fire Round: How Elena Hirsch Builds CONFIDENCE ON STAGE [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:35
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 questio…
Landing Huge Gigs With Just One Email: Elena Hirsch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:17
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 stati…
CROCHET Butterflies and DARK Pop? Briauna Rapid Fire [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:05
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—c…