SPECIAL INTERVIEW: Zacharria

THEAUSSIEWORD.COM special interview with Zacharria.

How and where did it all begin for you? What drew your interest to the music industry?

Apparently I started humming in my cot as a baby, listening to the greats as a child and studying true singers as a teen I soon knew this was what I was meant to do. Once I discovered songwriting and the freedom of expression that brought me I was locked in for life 😊

What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?

The tingles that you get down your spine and the power a strong melody has to change your mood, or make you feel a certain way.  I try to write songs or melodies that make you feel something.  Chord progressions that give you the goose pimples.

What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?

To have my music heard on a wide scale, to be respected for what I do, tour, and be known as a true singer, not a product.

What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?

2019 is all about releasing new music and going on the road to play it.  My debut made it to #1 on the Swiss Dance Charts so we have to follow that up and continue to keep the ears smiling.

Tell us a bit about your latest release and how would you best describe your music?

My latest release is called Living Without You – remixed by Thomas Godel in the States.  This song is a radio edm remix of a pop song I wrote last year with Melbourne based producer Alius.  I try to create music that has meaning, whether its fast or slow, it has to hold truth to it along with a commercial edge and of course solid vocals are where my heart lies. If the vocals ain’t tight, it wont make it on the record.

Give us an insight into your creative process. What gets you writing songs?

If I’m really feeling a certain topic I’ll usually write alone in my room, the melodies will come to me and I’ll re work them until im totally happy.  This will all happen accappela or with a piano.

I also love to colab with other writers, it brings a certain difference to the melodies and ideas which always keep it fresh.  Writing songs is like therapy for me, so give me a couple days in this crazy world and I’ll have something to write about haha.

Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music? 

I’ll always steer away from using the word BABY or LOVE or anything typical like that. I like to work with clever lyrics and interesting melodies.  Some of my songs may seem upbeat and happy but the meaning of the story has come for a darker place, that’s the beauty of music – you can turn darkness into light and heal through the beats!

Success, what is the secret to it?

Balance! Don’t burn out cause you’ll be no good to anyone. Look after yourself. Work hard. Stay focused on why you started in the first place. And remember to breatheeee!

What has been your biggest career highlight so far?

Definitely hitting #1 in Switzerland on the Swiss Dance Charts with It’s Been So Long in December 2019.  A lot of other great moments too but that one holds a special place for me.

 

Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?

Frank Ocean, Lauryn Hill, George Michael and Bjork

Are there any new projects in the pipeline?

Always! I’m continually working and I have a great team with me so we’re always coming up with new ideas and new music.

The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?

I’d like to be touring with my music, Always writing and collaborating with other writers and producers, and be respected for what I do.

What is your favourite and least favourite part about this line of work and why?

My fav part is definitely writing and performing to a pumped up crowd of music lovers!

My least fav part is the nervous stomach I get before a live show, even though it helps me to make sure I stay focused, it still gives me the jitters haha.

Name a few of your favourite Australian artists.

PNAU, Flume, Electric Fields, and Good old John Farnham

The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye? 

We all know that the internet killed the music industry. Its changed how audiences find and listen to music.  On one hand it’s easier to find new artists and new music on the other hand it’s taken renumeration away from the artist due to downloads and streaming.  Music is a staple in everyone’s life, so we will always find a way to continue making music but it just means artists have to be more switched on about how they make a living.  The reach of social media is truly powerful so in that respect it’s a good thing because if you’re smart about it you can reach millions.. for free.. all over the world!

How do you plan on cracking the international market?

Each region is so unique and you would almost need a tailored plan to suit each territory and audience in each continent.  Getting your music heard in a popular movie, or an ad here and overseas would open up many doors, Try and book shows internationally and see what the audience reaction is, collaborate with other international artists or approach booking agents internationally to help you book shows in various different countries.

Do you collaborate with others? Who is on your wish-list?

Yes, I find it always brings something new to the table when you colab with other artists or songwriters.  I’d love to work with Frank Ocean one day, that would be a dream come true.  Also I’d love to write a balads album with Walter Affanasiaf – the 90’s kid in me would be sooo happy with that!

What advice do you give for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Doesnt matter how many times you get knocked down, pick back up and keep your eye on the prize. Stay true to why you got into it in the first place and be prepared for set backs and a lot of “no’s” this is what builds a thick skin. Don’t stop!

A message for your fans. How do you best interact and respond with your fans?

These days theres a million ways to contact someone – A huge thank you to everyone who listens to my music, follows what I do and for any love that you’ve shown me through the years. We are all fans of music. And that’s why us artists do what we do.

Any last words?

Stay tuned and watch this space.. there’s so much cooking and I can’t wait to share it with you all xx

Website: zacharriamusic.com

Facebook: facebook.com/zacharriamusic

Twitter: @zacharria_music

Instagram: @zacharriamusic

Spotify: Zacharria