Singer-songwriter Zoe Zobrist rounded out last year with the release of her single “Fire.” Today, she presents a video showcasing an intimate performance of the track in its most distilled version, premiering exclusively on Stage Right Secrets.
Interview conducted March 31, 2021
By Dan Locke
Hailing from Dallas, Texas and now living in Los Angeles, singer-songwriter Zoe Zobrist crafts songs that are as personal as they are dynamic. Like many of her contemporaries, her love affair with music began at an early age. She was just 5 years old when she learned to play piano and she began writing songs only 2 years later. But her passion was fully ignited when she stumbled upon her father’s 70s-era record collection in the garage of her childhood home and fell in love with the hard-hitting choruses and memorable melodies of classic rock.
What was your upbringing like?
I was raised in Texas. I spent my time doing things like local theater, riding horses and playing music. The dynamic at home was a bit difficult sometimes so music was my way of sorting through that.
How did you first discover music?
My dad got a piano when we moved to Texas from Arizona when I was 6 months old. As soon as I could climb up on the bench I was hooked.
When did you start to write your own music?
When I was 7, I found some blank sheet music and realized I could do my own thing, so I wrote my first song!
When and how did you get your first guitar? Do you still have it?
I got my first guitar when I was 12 — a Taylor acoustic. I still have it and absolutely love it. It’s gone everywhere with me.
What is your guitar of choice now? Year, make and model?
My go-to acoustic is still my Taylor 214ce, my go to electric is my Gretsch Electromatic Hollow Body in teal.
How would you describe your music?
Indie/alternative.
What was your first performance like?
Looking back on it, my very first performance was pretty funny. I was 12 years old and playing at a local town festival with a band. We played “Surrender” by Cheap Trick and I was so nervous, haha.
In your opinion, what makes a good songwriter?
Someone who writes from necessity. Writing is their way of communicating their experiences. You can always feel and relate to songwriting like that.
You started your love affair with music at an early age, learning to play piano at the age of 5. What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
It was called “Why” and I eventually recorded it on GarageBand and compiled it with a few other songs and burnt them onto CDs to give to my family. I even colored the cover, hahaha.
What is your songwriting process like?
Usually, I find a chord structure I like and follow it with a melody, then I’ll refine the lyrics as I go.
How did it feel to be featured in John Mellencamp’s tour documentary?
It was incredible! I love his music and listened to a lot of it growing up, so it was absolutely surreal!
Tell me about your single “Fire.” Why did you decide to do the different versions for this song (original, remix, acoustic)?
“Fire” was written about unconditional love either for the self or for another person. The reason I chose to do the three different versions is that I think it’s really awesome for your song to have different expressions. A song can be communicated in so many different ways so it’s great to explore that.
Tell me about the newest single “Fade Away”
“Fade Away” is about what it feels like to wade through childhood traumas and growing pains as you work your way to and from different chapters in your life. It’s about looking towards something better while also embracing the process that it takes to get there.
Digital vs. vinyl?
I really enjoy vinyl having grown up listening to a lot of records. It’s such a great experience. However, digital is obviously the most convenient. I think they both have their place!
What song from the past is on your mind most often? Moreover, what does the song mean to you?
I’ve had “Breathe” by Pink Floyd stuck in my head a lot. I used to lay on my bedroom floor in my early teens & listen to The Dark Side of the Moon record and that song was my favorite.
If “Video Killed the Radio Star” do you think that COVID-19 has killed live music? Do you feel that it will affect the music business going forward?
I think it has really put artists and venues in a tough position both financially and emotionally. I’m really looking forward to seeing the community come together to rebuild. I’d say everyone is really craving live music so I have hope that it will come back strong eventually.
What have you been doing with your time during quarantine?
I’ve been doing lots of self-work which in its own way has been nice. I don’t think I would have slowed down otherwise.
Have you discovered or rediscovered any new hobbies?
Yes! I love gardening, cooking and making stuff like crystal wraps (jewelry.)
How do you stay healthy during the lockdown?
Cooking at home! I’ve been in school for nutrition for a year too so that’s helped as well.
Is that a Triumph motorcycle you ride? Why did you pick that type of bike?
I have a Honda Rebel 500 but plan to get a Triumph or Harley soon! I love the old-school look & really enjoy riding either cruiser or cafe racer style bikes.
In the past if a musician stop doing music, they find a new career… (for example, David Lee Roth from Van Halen became a licensed EMT in NY for 6 years, San Spitz [the guitarist for Anthrax] became a master watchmaker, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister did voiceover work for SpongeBob SquarePants…) If you couldn’t do music anymore, what would you like to be doing?
I’d help people with their health! I plan to do both eventually and hopefully primarily help people in the entertainment industry.
What/where is your happy place?
Either on a hike in the mountains or at the beach!
You played SXSW a few years ago. Do you feel it will be back by next year?
I had so much fun at SXSW and I really miss it. Hopefully by next year it will be back. I’m crossing my fingers!
Anything else you would like to say in closing?
Thank you for the great questions! Enjoyed chatting with you.
