Growing up in one of the top 10 poorest counties in America, in the backwoods of Kentucky, Zach Day would regularly skip school to teach himself how to play guitar and sing by examining the subtle nuances of legendary vocalists and songwriters. With nothing but the most discerning taste, Zach would devour songs of all genres and adopted his own style of original works. As a deep love of folk emerged, Zach perfected the art of lyrical story telling through his beautiful soul-bearing voice.
Zach Day’s impossibly technical vocals have proven undeniable as the likes of John Legend, Meghan Trainor, Bon Iver, Brandi Carlile, and so many other brilliant artists and writers have actively followed his musical journey on social platforms. Icons Carole King and Ester Dean have insisted the public at large must bear witness to Zach Day’s musical mastery by reposting his incredible covers to their socials.
Signing with Epstein Management Firm, Zach was connected to multi platinum Canadian producer Alex “Pilzbury” Vujic and together they penned and produced his first single “If It Kills Me”. The future looks bright for Zach Day, as hundreds of thousands of fans around the world wait in anticipation, as committed believers, following his journey to stardom.
What first got you into music?
I grew up on a farm in Kentucky, learning how to harmonize and play guitar with my friends, and my sister, and singing in the church house. I was always drawn to music and knew that I wanted to share my story. It was told to me that if I didn’t use it, I’d lose it. God would take away the one thing I felt passion for. The thought terrified me. I made it my duty to learn all I could, even sometimes with limited access. I never quit.
What is your favorite song to perform?
This changes a lot for me! Lately, I love playing my original song “Washington”. I love that moment when I open the tune with “I spent the night at a funeral home” and everyone leans in to hear about what happened. I also have a song called Flintstone Gummies and another called You’re Bored and I Hate It. Any time I say those titles I think the audience wants to hear the story.
Who are your main musical influences?
I draw inspiration from many places—mostly women telling their stories. Being brought up in Appalachia in a small community of mostly women, I was inspired and influenced by the things I heard. Also, some of the best musicians I’ve ever heard are hidden in the backwoods of Kentucky.
What are your top two favorite albums of all time? Why those albums?
It definitely changes as I grow and experience life. Lately, I’ve been saying The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and Melodrama by Lorde. Both of these albums have inspired my writing in ways, and my singing in other ways. They both tell stories from unique perspectives… these artists are relating to me even though we’ve lived different lives and experiences. There are songs on these records that I catch myself saying “damn I wish I thought of that.”
How do you go about writing a song? Do you have a melody in your head and then write the other music for it?
I pick up my guitar and parse out poetry or couplets that I write down when inspiration strikes me. I’ll sing melodies into my iPhone at 2:30 am, then listen back the next day and work with what I dreamt up. I try not to force anything.
If we were to peek over your shoulder, what does your studio look like? What gear do you typically use?
I write the majority of my songs at my desk in my studio apartment. I have a Macbook Pro, a mic, my guitar, and a cheap midi keyboard. I have a poster of Elvis, a cassette tape of Bjork’s “Debut” and a Dolly Parton sticker looking back at me, right next to a shelve of books by bell hooks and Patti Smith.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
I catch myself singing the theme songs for Survivor and America’s Next Top Model every second of every day. They both have been my ringtones at some point in my life…
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
Gifted, Guarded, Gorgeous.
What was the last thing you dressed up as for fancy dress?
I went to a Beyonce Renaissance listening party at a cool club in LA where I was told to dress to impress so I wore a blazer with nothing underneath, a bunch of chains, platform Doc Martins and a black cowboy hat.
If you were a member of the Spice Girls, what would your spice handle be?
Hungry Spice
What was the last TV series you watched on TV?
I watched pretty much every Real Housewives franchise during quarantine. Started with Atlanta, then New York, then Beverly Hills… etc. Currently making my way through Orange County. Unfortunately, I am absolutely hooked.
Working with Canadian radio top charting producer Alex ‘Pilzbury’ Vujic, Zach penned his debut single “If It Kills Me.” Mixed by JUNO Award winner Jason Dufour, this song hits close to home for those who struggle in relationships, often reflecting on their own insecurities. Boasting acoustic instruments and a 50’s vibe with an exhilarating vocal performance, “If It Kills Me” is written about the struggle to let go.
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