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.

• Visit us at: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com/

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.

Think the music industry is all glam and glitz? Not even close. It’s survival, adaptability, community — and honestly, kindness. This episode dives into indie artistry, storytelling, and why being a genuinely good human might be the most underrated career move you can make.

In this episode: • How today’s music scene shifted from rigid genres to fearless mashups • Why proof matters — packed rooms, real fans, and social validation • The power of your “why” over talent or connections • Creating for short attention spans in the digital age • Why live shows and real relationships still win • Blending ska, funk, reggae, and more without getting boxed in • The truth about DIY merch and turning passion into income • How AI is entering creative spaces — and what that means for artists • Working with good people and leading with kindness in the craft.

Resources & Links:

• Stream”San Francisco Safari": https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/lifewithdistortionandjanaitis/san-francisco-safari/
• Artwork by: https://www.instagram.com/sacrament_666
• Life with Distortion: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithdis...
• Courtney Nord: https://www.instagram.com/daughterovt...
• Lezzy Osbourne:https://www.instagram.com/lezzyosbour...
• Murry: https://www.instagram.com/bobbybottleservise?igsh=NWViMWE2MTV1dmNr

Our Website: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com/

And remember: Whether you’re smashing on stage, crafting merch, or just vibing at home, kindness and authenticity are your best tools. Keep it real, keep it nice, and keep making music. Catch you next time.

Discovering the Never Donts: Salt Lake City’s Ska-Punk Scene and Culture

Ever wonder what a band that’s more family reunion than just a group sounds like? Today, we’re diving into the wild, chaotic, and super genuine world of the Never Donts, a ska punk collective based in Salt Lake City. Think DIY energy, community vibes, and a sound that pulls from everywhere — punk, ska, emo, hip-hop — you name it. If you love music that’s loud, honest, and built on connection rather than perfection, buckle up.In this episode:

• The story behind the band’s DIY roots and all-ages ethos
• How their rotating lineup brings diverse influences into their sound
• Why their visual aesthetic screams ‘culture over polished marketing’
• The upcoming Box Elder album release and community scene in Salt Lake
• How to start exploring their music — first stop, “Cryptoids”
• The importance of supporting bands through streaming, shows, and socials

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome to the Z-Frequency Spotlight: Meet the Never Donts

00:12 - What makes them more than just a band, a community

00:45 - The band members and how their diverse backgrounds shape their sound

01:11 - Musical influences: from ska and punk to emo and hip-hop

01:40 - Finding them through killer show flyers and visuals that speak culture

02:14 - The DIY energy that sets their visuals apart from polished marketing

02:46 - Coming up: April 10th Box Elder album release scene

02:59 - How community and scene support fuel their projects

03:18 - Where to start with their music: the latest release “Cryptoids”

03:47 - How to support local bands and stay tuned for potential interviews

04:12 - Wrap-up: The value of authentic connection in music scene support

Resources & Links:

• https://www.instagram.com/neverdontsband

• https://www.facebook.com/p/Never-Donts-61573164726374/

• https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCH14UI1R8hqo25R52qVp7tA?si=UXvuObivmVwUTqXQ

• https://www.tiktok.com/@neverdontsband

• https://music.apple.com/us/artist/never-donts/1797327315

• https://open.spotify.com/artist/4NDOhTiQ9C4HeKr0cvLuig?si=GBvsyPZiT1mXBTDlFGivPA

Connect with Zak:

• Twitter