Hiya folks thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today, grab a brew and take a seat.
What made you decide that music is a thing for you?
Music has always been in my DNA. My father, who had a Christian rock band for many years, toured around the United States before I was born. He has a powerful voice and is very skilled at guitar. I started toying around with the idea of being a musician around eight years old, but it wasn’t until thirteen when I realized I could make that a reality. From there, I started singing at any chance I could and started realizing my potential.
Introduce us to you and your musical history?
My name is Zachary Booth and I’m a musician based out of Los Angeles. My passion for music was passed down to me from my dad. I wrote and released my first single “Potential” in 2019, which was followed by a five-track EP called “Letters to Clara”. In 2021, I released the single “Bliss”, which got media recognition from places like Westword and 303 Magazine. “HBD!” is the first single from an EP coming later this summer.
Name me your 3 favorite Albums.
“Foreword” – Tori Kelly
“Pony” – Rex Orange County
“Cold Heart” – Thirdstory
What was the first song you heard that steered you into a music path?
“That’s Life” – Frank Sintra was shown to me when I was young. I remember loving the instantly iconic sound. It felt so polished and complete. I loved it then, and I love it now!
The music industry is the hardest industry in the world to progress in, How do you feel you are doing?
The music industry is a complex thing to tackle. My growth has been something I’m proud of, as I am only committed to making my younger self proud. Once I stopped comparing myself to other artists’ journeys, I was able to be happy with any and all progress. I’m grateful I can create music that I enjoy and get the chance to perform it! That’s progress!
I’m seeing a lot of debate about women not feeling safe at music gigs, any thoughts on what we need to do to help?
Unfortunately as a man, I am not going to know the greatest solution to that very real issue. However, I think we can all be dedicated to finding a solution and doing our part to make things better for everyone.
As you develop as an artist and develop using socials what ways do you get new ears on your music? Any tips?
Right now, Tik Tok is the way to go to get new listeners. I know one Tik Tok trend can result in millions of streams for one track. Sometimes all you gotta do is dance to your own song, literally.
Tell us Two truths and a lie about you.
I have an EP coming out later this summer. I was once on radio Disney. I play bass guitar.
Do you sign up for any conspiracy theories?
I don’t necessarily subscribe to any particular conspiracy theories but the Mandela Effect is pretty weird, right? How do we all remember the same thing but it’s wrong?
Did you buy anything you don’t need during the pandemic?
Among many other items, I bought a fondue machine. I gotta say though, the one time I used it was pretty great.
What was the worst experience on stage?
I recently had an experience with someone in the crowd taking a very loud phone call. It was really awkward, but the rest of the crowd got a good laugh out of it! Concert-goers: probably try not to talk on the phone while someone is playing!
Tell us something about you that you think people would be surprised about.
Not sure about being surprised, but might be interesting! I live with PTSD, and that is a big part of my music. It directly correlates with my experiences and therefore my lyrics!
What makes you stand out as a band/artist?
I recently had someone tell me that it was my “raw passion” for what I was creating that made me a standout. I like to think that being fluid with genres plays a part, as well as my real-life experiences that translate into my music.
I hear you have new music, what can you tell us about it.
HBD! is the first single from my new EP, coming later this summer. HBD! is an upbeat song with a catchy melody and a neat meaning. We all have felt a friendship slowly fade – but after 12 years of consistent “Happy Birthday!” turns into silence, you notice! I wrote this song after feeling bitter, while also reminiscing on the old friendship I had with someone. HBD! Was just released May 19th, 2023. EP coming later this summer!
Talk me through the thought process of the new tune/s.
All of my music comes from real life experiences! This one happened to be when someone didn’t send a “Happy Birthday!” text, and I was lucky enough to create a song about it with my best friend, Issac Antonio Silva. Issac and I have written multiple songs together, and I love being able to pick his brain about the music, lyrics, melodies, etc. My current writing process is usually finding a vocal melody that I like, then building the lyrics and structure around that. Issac co-wrote “HBD!” with me.
What was the recording process like?
For this track and the upcoming EP, I worked with Taylor Sparks. Essentially, I bring Taylor the bones of a song – usually piano chords and my vocals – and he builds the track around that. Taylor is a genius producer that really knows how to make my thoughts come to life, while also bringing his own creative input. With his knowledge and experience, he’s able to test different genres and try new sounds.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing the new tunes?
The biggest learning curve was accepting how I needed to write. For me personally, I really have to sit down and start writing during the current event. If I wait till after something stops hurting or stops being relevant, it’s hard for me to recall my exact emotions. For that reason, I learned how to start being more prompt with writing!
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
Be good to people. Check in on your loved ones.
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