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
Jason Bradford on Synthpop and DIY Music | ZHZ Podcast Ep. 007 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:53
Join us for a captivating episode where our hosts, alongside guest Jason Bradford, delve into the intimate bonds forged through music. They unpack the intricate art of songwriting and share the ambitions driving the band…
Dave Hunsaker: The Beat Goes On Through Sticks And Skins [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:11
Zak Davis and Matt Allen engage in conversation with musician and audio engineer Dave Hunsaker, exploring his musical journey and dedication to drumming. They delve into his collaborative efforts such as Ariel's Bones wi…
Brad Jennings: From Guitar to Bass & Los Ocupados [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:52
Zak Davis and Matt Allen engage in conversation with Brad Jennings, an accomplished musician from Freshly Squashed Fly and the Washington-based ska band Los Ocupados. They explore Brad's musical origins, his initial fora…
Metal Riffs & Reverb: Meet Jeff Huso [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:37
Join Matt Allen, Zak Davis, and Jeff Huso as they dive into their musical journeys, sharing stories of early gigs, instrument mishaps, and forgotten lyrics. They chat about their influences like Oingo Boingo and Public I…
Behind the Mic with Matt Allen: Trumper, Voice, and Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:01
Zak Davis and cohost Matt Allen reminisce about their musical journey that started in 1991, deeply influenced by their shared love for Oingo Boingo. Matt looks back fondly on his trumpet-playing days in school before tra…
Allow Myself to Introduce Myself [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:58
Zak Davis, the engaging host of the Z-Frequency podcast, embarks on a journey through his musical lineage in his inaugural episode. He reflects on his early years and the first musical experiences that significantly shap…