Blending Folk & Arabic Roots: The Birth of Arabesque Folk with Michael Isaak

Stop Overthinking Independent Music | Zoom Out Now

Charlie Gilder is stepping into what he calls “The Gilder Era”—and if you’ve been stuck overthinking every move, this episode is your wake-up call. In this ZHZ Podcast interview, we talk about the mindset shift that helps artists stop staring at the problem up close and finally zoom out. Because in Independent Music, it’s way too easy to feel behind, feel overwhelmed, and feel like the whole game is stacked against you. Charlie keeps it real: you can either complain about the current music landscape… or learn how to play it and move forward. If you’re building in the Utah Scene (or anywhere, honestly), this conversation is packed with perspective, encouragement, and practical ways to keep chasing your dreams without burning yourself out. What we get into: * The “Zoom Out” mindset (and why it changes everything)   * What “The Gilder Era” means and why people connect with it   * How to keep moving even when the work feels like a lot   * Encouragement for artists who feel stuck, tired, or behind   * Why “playing the game” doesn’t have to kill your creativity   Follow / Support Charlie Gilder: Want to keep up with Charlie and what he’s building? Hit these links:   * Charlie’s main hub / store: https://gilder-prod.square.site [https://gilder-prod.square.site] * Spotify (featured release): https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg [https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg]   * (“Echo After Midnight” is expected around July 2026 — keep it on your radar.) More ZHZ Podcast: For more episodes, guest info, and everything we’re building, visit:   https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com [https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com] Quick favor (helps a ton) If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and drop a comment:   What’s one thing you need to “zoom out” on right now? Chapters: 00:14 Introduction to the Gilder Era 00:45 Rapid Fire with Charlie Gilder 00:57 Connecting Through Music and Social Media 03:22 The Journey of an Independent Artist 05:37 The Gilder Era: A Movement of Self-Belief 07:39 Navigating Social Media's Impact on Connection 11:28 Echoes After Midnight: A New Musical Release 20:15 Zooming Out: Gaining Perspective as an Artist 24:49 The Importance of Music Promotion 28:41 Finding Your Audience and Release Strategy 31:34 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Vulnerability 33:53 The Mental Challenges of Being an Artist 38:00 The Power of Boldness and Self-Belief 45:04 Preparing for Live Performances 49:18 Incorporating Live Elements into Performances 52:20 The Importance of Authenticity in Live Music 53:17 Embracing Mistakes and Authenticity on Stage 57:15 The Role of Support in an Artist's Journey #independentmusic #artistinterviews #zhzpodcast

This Answer Hit Everyone in the Feels… 🎶 “Smells Like Grandma’s House” (Rapid Fire Interview)

A rapid fire interview moment turns emotional when an artist describes a scent that instantly reminds everyone of grandma’s house. What started as a fun rapid fire round took a surprisingly deep turn… and honestly, nobody saw this answer coming. When asked what a signature scent would smell like, Michael Isaak didn’t go with anything typical—he said it reminded him of his grandparents’ house. And just like that, the whole room felt it. It’s one of those rare moments where music, memory, and emotion all collide—and you can literally see it hit everyone in real time. If you’ve ever had a smell instantly take you back to a place, this clip is going to land. 🎙️ From The ZHZ Podcast: Hosted by Zak Davis & Matt Allen   Featuring: Michael Isaak   👉 Subscribe for more artist interviews, real conversations, and moments that hit deeper than expected: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com [https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com] Chapters: 00:00 Life in New York: Challenges and Experiences 03:15 Musical Inspirations and Cultural Connections 08:28 The Emotional Impact of Music 10:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations #PodcastClips #MusicInterview #EmotionalMoment #Storytelling #ArtistInterview

Blending Folk & Arabic Roots: The Birth of Arabesque Folk with Michael Isaak

Discover how an artist's diaspora dreams led to the creation of a genre-defining sound, blending cultural authenticity with innovative music. Meet Michael Isaak, a Brooklyn-based Egyptian American artist blending folk with Arabic traditions in a fresh genre he calls Arabesque Folk. From living vicariously through imagined desert carpets to crafting a unique sound that bridges worlds, Michael's journey is nothing short of inspiring—and a little magic. In this episode: * Michael's early musical influences growing up in the Coptic Church and LA * The eye-opening trip to Egypt at 19 and cultural rediscovery * The evolution of his sound from learned guitar chords to blending oud and folk * How the collaboration with Sohail shaped the "Carpet Maker" album * Authenticity in production: live recordings, DIY shows, and raw emotion * Effective marketing for independent artists—word of mouth to social media strategies * The future of Arabesque Folk and expanding multicultural storytelling * The power of music as a unifier beyond language and borders * Connect with Michael: * https://www.michaelisaak.us/ [https://www.michaelisaak.us/] * https://instagram.com/michaelisaacmusic [https://instagram.com/michaelisaacmusic] * https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelisaakmusic [https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelisaakmusic] * https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtwn2Xci7HwsR-M_XPA1nw [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtwn2Xci7HwsR-M_XPA1nw] * https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey [https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey] * Follow Us: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com [https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com] Additional notes: * Stay tuned for the album release on May 15, and catch his upcoming live shows. * Dive into Arabesque Folk and discover new worlds of sound that unite, inspire, and challenge genre boundaries. * Remember, in music and life, authenticity and community are the real magic. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Michael Isaac and Arabesque Folk 02:09 Cultural Influences and Musical Education 05:10 The Evolution of Michael's Sound 07:42 The Carpet Maker: Concept and Inspiration 10:28 Collaboration and Creative Process 13:17 Recording and Production Insights 23:59 Marketing Music in 2026 26:59 The Art of Busking and Live Performances 32:09 Cultural Identity and Self-Discovery 36:36 Challenges in Musical Fusion 43:42 The Future of Arabesque Folk Music 54:33 Exploring New Musical Horizons 57:13 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations #michaelisaak #zhzpodcast #independentmusic #artistinterview

Chris Murray Spotlight | Ska Legend, King Apparatus Legacy & ZHZ Podcast Mini Episode

In this Chris Murray spotlight, the ZHZ Podcast explores the ska legend’s King Apparatus legacy, his lasting influence on independent music, and why this mini episode matters for fans of ska and artist discovery. Chris Murray is a true ska legend, and in this ZHZ Podcast mini episode, we spotlight his impact as a songwriter, performer, and one of the most respected voices connected to the history and evolution of ska music. From his early work with King Apparatus to his enduring solo career, Chris Murray has inspired generations of artists, including many musicians connected to the Utah scene and beyond. If you love independent music, artist interviews, ska history, and discovering the artists who helped shape the sound, this Z Frequency Spotlight is for you. Follow Chris Murray here:   Official Website: https://www.chrismurraymusic.com/ [https://www.chrismurraymusic.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismurraymusic/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrismurraymusic/] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lHb57DpHI6R6pp81EyvPP [https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lHb57DpHI6R6pp81EyvPP]  Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Murray_(musician [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Murray_(musician] For more independent music, artist interviews, and stories connected to the Utah scene, follow us here:   https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com [https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com] If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe, and share this with another ska fan who needs to hear about Chris Murray. Chapters: 00:00 Spotlight on Chris Murray: A Ska Legend 00:47 The Evolution of Ska: Chris Murray's Journey 02:00 Exploring Chris Murray's Discography 02:52 The Impact of Chris Murray on Modern Ska

Rapid Fire 7 with X Minus 1: The One Upgrade for a Robot Drummer That Will Blow Your Mind

Join Rapid Fire 7 with X Minus 1 as they explore the mind-blowing upgrade for a robot drummer that will redefine your expectations. When Robots and Space Cocktails Collide: The Out-of-This-World Band Talk Ever wondered what happens when a band gets philosophical, drinks space beer, and imagines robot drummers with bonus arms? Well, strap in, because this episode is a cosmic ride through sci-fi fantasies, band banter, and the unglamorous reality of aging—all with a wicked sense of humor. In this intergalactic episode: * The essential upgrades for a robot drummer (spoiler: extra arms and perhaps three boobs) * Which sci-fi flick perfectly captures their band’s vibe (think B-movies and ‘80s classics) * Their extraterrestrial cosplay fantasies (tentacle girls and space cocaine, anyone?) * The un-rock-and-roll reality of everyday life (hello, Centrum Silver multivitamins) * And a dive into space-inspired cocktails and why Florida is a designated crash site Chapters: 00:00 – Robot drummers: what’s the first upgrade? 02:02 – Which sci-fi universe fits their vibe? B-movies and glory days. 05:18 – Embracing the silver-haired life with Centrum Silver. Resources & Links: * https://open.spotify.com/album/3EfpOFKjotrMQTFTnxrXaB [https://open.spotify.com/album/3EfpOFKjotrMQTFTnxrXaB] - (a timeless album for space trips) * https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084040/ [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084040/] – The ultimate low-budget sci-fi flick *https://www.amazon.com/stores/Centrum/page/A788FB8A-3B74-4972-BFA8-8F7AD231FA93 [https://www.amazon.com/stores/Centrum/page/A788FB8A-3B74-4972-BFA8-8F7AD231FA93] – The “rock star” aging vitamin Connect with the band: * https://www.instagram.com/xminus1astronauts/ [https://www.instagram.com/xminus1astronauts/] * https://www.tiktok.com/@xminus1band [https://www.tiktok.com/@xminus1band] Follow the podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com [https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com] And remember: Whether you’re upgrading robot drummers, cosplaying as tentacle girls, or just trying to keep your vitamins straight—stay weird, stay cosmic, and keep rocking those space vibes!