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: 58

ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene
Podcast Episodes
The SECRET Behind Stretsch's Unique Ska Sound Revealed! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:25
Join us as Utah ska legends Stretsch Armstrong share hilarious untold stories from their wild journey, the magic behind their epic ForkFest reunion, and what's next for the band. Dive into the vibrant 90s ska scene and d…
ForkFest 2025 Recap: Utah Ska Legends Stretsch Armstronng Reunite! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:55
In this episode, Zak and Mateo recap their experience at ForkFest 2025, a well-organized music festival in American Fork, Utah. They discuss the festival's atmosphere, the variety of performances, and the standout reunio…
Valhalla's 3 BIGGEST Punk Rock Influences REVEALED [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:45
Join Valhalla on their EPIC journey as they unveil their new EP, embark on a mini tour in 2025, and reveal their punk rock influences! We dive deep into the creative process behind their latest EP, exploring the inspirat…
THE MAKEWAYS and other UTAH SKA Scene Legends | BUCKY CASH Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:26:20
In this engaging conversation, Old Buck shares his musical journey, from early influences to his current projects. The discussion delves into the local ska scene, the evolution of music styles, and the importance of coll…
How Bernice Celeste Turned Heartbreak Into a Hit Song [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:16
In this episode of the ZHZ Podcast, hosts Zak Davis and Matt Allen sit down with singer-songwriter Bernice Celeste. They discuss her musical journey, influences, and the healing power of music.Bernice shares insights abo…
LIFE ON THE ROAD: Inside a TOURING MUSICIAN’s Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:59
Inthis episode of the ZHZ Podcast, host Zak Davis and co-host Matt Allen sit downwith Tom Sweeney, the creative force behind Blakgraz, a genre-bending artistfrom San Antonio, Texas. Tom shares his journey as a DIY musici…
PUNK Meets REGGAE | USE OF MAN'S Fresh TAKE on ROCK in 2025 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:05
Hosts Zak Davis & Matt Allen chat with the band Use of Man, formerly known as Slick Daddies. They discuss the band's journey, creative process, and the decision to rebrand, as well as the challenges of recording music an…
Why Dan Nelson’s Reunion Show With Stretsch Armstrong Will Be EPIC [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:48
Host Zak Davis and co-host Matt Allen are joined by the incredible Dan Nelson, saxophonist of the legendary ska band Stretsch Armstrong. Together, they dive deep into Dan's musical journey, the evolution of the ska scene…
Vibe Merchant Reveals Their SECRET Creative Process [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:05
In this engaging conversation, the hosts Zak Davis and MattAllen welcome the Northern Utah band Vibe Merchant, discussing their unique blend of reggae and hip hop, the formation of the band in 2020, their creative proces…