Interview with Zoe Zobrist
Zoe Zobrist, the LA-based singer/songwriter, has just released a personal and poignant track about self-forgiveness and the acceptance of unresolved trauma.
‘Fade Away’ is a stripped-back acoustic track whose delicate vocals, vulnerable intimacy and innate empathy instantly draws the listener into Zobrist’s world as she opens up about what she’s going through.
“This song was written through heartbreak. Not due to a person but from how painful it is to lose yourself. Over the years I fell deeper and deeper into self destruction, avoidance and had such a hard time seeing my self worth,” says Zobrist.
It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to speak to Zoe Zobrist about her latest single, song-writing and her musical ambitions…
Which musicians first made you fall in love with music?
Robert Plant, John Lennon, and Norah Jones.
When and why did you decide to start creating your own music?
I started playing piano as soon as I could reach the bench and I started writing my own music at the age of 7. I really needed it way before I even understood what that meant. It’s always been my way to make sense of the world and to communicate on a deeper healing level.
Can you talk about the inspiration behind your latest track ‘Fade Away‘?
‘Fade Away’ is about growing pains. I’ve experienced so much change over the years — so many new situations, places and feelings. The song voices my desire to feel more complete and peaceful but also embraces the process it takes to get there. I love the sense of nostalgia it brings.
Out of all the tracks you have ever released, do you have a favourite? If so, can you explain why it is your favourite?
This one ‘Fade Away’ as well as ‘Someday‘ which I released in 2019. I feel really deeply connected to these songs. Writing them helped me through so much and they continue to relate to my life in so many ways. I hope others can feel that too.
Where do you usually gather song-writing inspiration and what is your usual song-writing process?
I gather inspiration from so many different sources. I write from a very honest standpoint. My writing is diary-like. Sometimes it’s literal, sometimes it’s metaphorical but I always write to move through something. Typically, I start with a chord progression that I like, hum a melody and then work out what I’m trying to express.
What is a typical day in your life like?
I usually wake up and read the daily meditation from “The Book of Awakening” by Mark Nepo. It’s amazing, I’ve used it for years. I usually eat a bagel for breakfast. I’m a big bagel fan. I am in school for holistic nutrition right now so my day usually consists of school, jamming/writing, going on walks throughout the day to get energy out and, if I’m on my game, usually some yoga! I used to work as a craft bartender but due to Covid that hasn’t been happening.
What are your ambitions as a songwriter and musician from here?
I hope to write and release music for as long as I can that resonates with people and hopefully helps them through their lives. I also enjoy writing for other artists because I have fun writing in different genres. I am also really looking forward to getting back to playing shows.
Can you tell us about the best live show that you have ever played?
I was so insanely proud to play The Troubadour in Los Angeles. It was such a fun show and it is such a historical venue. I still can’t believe I got to do that.
If we were to look at the artists you are listening to, who would be on your playlist?
Currently: Dope Lemon, Fruit Bats, Phoebe Bridgers and Shakey Graves.
What can we expect from you within the next six months? Any releases planned? Future gigs?
I’ll be releasing singles, staying active on live streams and social media and getting back on stage as soon as possible!
To keep up to date with the latest news from Zoe Zobrist, you can follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To listen to her latest releases, head to YouTube, Soundcloud and Spotify.
By Eveline Vouillemin