Hiya DayEyez, thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today. Grab a brew and take a seat.
What inspired the creation of DayEyez, and how did the project begin?
I started writing songs back in college, but I didn’t really have the skills or confidence to bring them to life at the time. That changed last year when I randomly came across Suno through a YouTube video. I started making a few tracks just for fun, but it quickly turned into something more. I began revisiting old lyrics and ideas I’d written over the years and started exploring the idea of an AI-powered band to bring them to life. It took a while to get something that actually sounded the way I imagined, but when Bubblegum Pop came together, it felt like the start of something real.
What’s the live music scene like in Nelson, New Zealand right now? Anyone we should be looking out for (bar you, of course)?
It’s pretty quiet where I live, but New Zealand definitely has some exciting talent. A couple of bands worth checking out are DARTZ and PARK RD. On the solo side, Georgia Lines is doing some great stuff too.
It seems like being a social media curator has become added to the many jobs of a musician. How do you feel about this?
It definitely feels like a must these days. Thankfully, I’ve had some experience from running a YouTube gaming channel called Shaun Does FM, which focuses on the Football Manager series. That taught me a lot about video editing and content creation, so it’s helped massively on the promotional side of things.
How do you manage engagement on your socials?
I try to post something daily and keep things active across different platforms. At the same time, I make a conscious effort to take weekends off—unless I’ve got a release or something big happening—just to avoid burnout and keep things sustainable.
What’s your view on the music industry today?
It’s definitely a tough space to break into. Last year, I had to teach myself everything from scratch—marketing, distribution, the whole lot. But in some ways, working with AI has made certain parts of the process a bit more accessible. You can move quickly from an idea to something that sounds polished, which helps when you’re juggling everything solo. It’s still overwhelming at times, but there’s something exciting about figuring it out as you go.
Where do you feel you currently sit within the music industry?
Somewhere near the bottom, but not right at the very start either. I’ve built a small but solid following considering the tools I’m using and how new the project is. There’s definitely room to grow, but the fact I can’t do live gigs or tour due to the AI aspect does make things a bit more complicated.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned recently as you progress with your music?
I think I’m improving as a songwriter, which is really the heart of this whole project. The human element—my lyrics, my ideas, and the direction I shape the music in—that’s what makes it all feel worthwhile. As long as that keeps getting better, I’m happy.
Tell us something about you that you think people would be surprised about.
I work in an engraving shop during the day. Also, I’m diabetic. Bit of a wild combo, I guess!
I hear you have new music. What can you tell us about it?
Yeah! Cast Away dropped recently and it’s the second single I’ve released this year. It’s about being pushed out of a relationship after making too many small mistakes—those little things that build up over time until they become too much to forgive. It’s a song about regret, but in a very real, human way.
What was the creation process like?
This track came together shortly after my first single, Insecurities. I wanted to carry over the emotional tone but take things a step further in terms of the story and sound. It’s still got that emotional alternative rock feel but with a bigger, more stadium-ready vibe.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing the new tunes?
I started this year with a concept in mind—songs themed around sin, regret, and being flawed as a person. It was tougher than usual because I wasn’t just writing whatever came to mind. I had to stick to the theme while still making each song feel different. Once I had a name for the project and a few core tracks in place, the rest came together more smoothly.
Would you change anything now it’s finished?
Honestly, no. I love the vibe of Cast Away and think it sets the tone really well for what’s still to come this year.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with the world?
If you’re into alternative rock, give the music a spin. Try to listen to it for what it is—regardless of the AI involved. You might be surprised by how many artists are using similar tools without saying anything. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy the songs and stick around for what’s next.
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