Interview with the Artist Zayd

April 07, 2025

Interview with the Artist Zayd

By Mick Michaels

COSMICK VIEW: Hello! Welcome to The Cosmick View/MBM Ten Pounder. Thank you for taking some time out of your day to chat with me, it's greatly appreciated.

CV: Every artist experiences highs and lows. Many struggle just to move from one level to the next, and some, unfortunately, never do. What would you consider to be a pivotal point in an artist's career which would take them from one level to the next that a struggling artist should be aware of? Is it an individual mindset or does it equate more to opportunity? Or is it something all together different

in your opinion?

Zayd: I think when we start as musicians, we don’t realize that we are also running a business. The sooner we understand that, the better. Creating music is just one piece of the puzzle —marketing, branding, and building a community around your art are just as important.

A pivotal point for any artist is when they shift their mindset from "I just make music" to "I am building something bigger than myself." That change in perspective leads to

intentionality—whether it's how you present yourself, how you engage with fans, or how you release your work.

Of course, opportunity plays a role, but I believe mindset creates opportunities. The artists who consistently put themselves out there, learn the business side, and adapt to changes in the industry tend to be the ones who break through.

CV: What do you feel an artist can do right now to stay relevant, especially in an environment, such as the present, where performing in front of a live audience is not an option?

Zayd: Engagement is everything. If you can’t be on stage, bring your presence online. Share your story, your creative process, and your struggles—people connect with authenticity.

Social media and short-form content platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are huge right now. Creating content around your music—whether it's stripped-down performances, behind-the-scenes clips, or interactive challenges—keeps you in front of people even when you’re not on a stage.

Another key thing is collaboration. Working with other artists, producers, or even content creators helps you tap into new audiences. It’s not just about posting content—it’s about creating conversations and making people feel like they are part of your journey.

CV: What have you found to be the balancing point between relevance and over saturation when it comes to being an artist? Is there a fine line between the two or can it be looked at to some degree as the two essentially being one in the same?

Zayd: There’s definitely a fine line. You want to stay top of mind, but you don’t want to exhaust people to the point where they tune you out. I think the key is intention—it’s not about posting constantly, it’s about posting with purpose.

When content feels repetitive, forced, or like it’s only about self-promotion, it can push people away. But when content is genuine, valuable, or entertaining, people stay engaged. It’s also important to step back sometimes. Taking a break to refine your art, live life, and come back with fresh ideas helps maintain long-term relevance rather than just short bursts of attention.

CV: Is there any level of consideration, or even concern, to deliver on expectations, whether it being your own or that of the fans, when working on new material?

Zayd: Absolutely. As an artist, you want to stay true to yourself, but you also care about your audience and what resonates with them. I try to find the balance between personal expression and connection—writing music that means something to me but also speaks to what my listeners are going through.

There’s always pressure, whether it’s internal (wanting to push yourself further) or external (meeting fan expectations). But at the end of the day, if the music is honest, it will find its place.

CV: For you, what’s first when it comes to songwriting…is it a matter of lyrics melody, chords, beat, attitude? Or is it more organic than that where the moment dictates the process and outcome?

Zayd: It’s always organic for me. Sometimes a melody just hits me out of nowhere, other times it’s a lyric that sparks everything. There have been moments where I sit down with my guitar, play a few chords, and suddenly a song starts forming on its own.

The attitude and emotion behind the song usually guide the process. If I’m feeling

something intense, the words might come first. If I’m just vibing, a riff or beat might set the tone. I try to let the song unfold naturally rather than force a process.

CV: What do you believe makes songwriting more honest and impactful...that something that both the artist and listener can share?

Zayd: Honesty. Writing from a real place—whether it’s personal struggles, faith, love, or fear— is what makes a song hit differently. Listeners can tell when something is real, and they connect with it because it reflects their own experiences.

I think impact comes when a song makes someone feel seen. Whether it’s the lyrics, the delivery, or the emotion behind it, when someone hears your song and says, “That’s exactly how I feel,” that’s when you know it’s real.

CV: What do you feel has been the greatest contribution to your success as an artist?

Zayd: Consistency and authenticity. Staying true to my message—bringing people from darkness to light, sharing struggles, and offering hope—has helped me build something meaningful.

Also, being open—to learning, evolving, and taking feedback. The more you grow, the more you refine your sound and your message. Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about showing up, adapting, and staying true to why you started in the first place.

CV: What's next for you? What can fans expect to see coming up?

Zayd: As I wrap up the release of my EP, “Deceit and Desecrate,” I’m already gearing up to start writing again. This next chapter is going to be intense—I’m diving deep into new ideas, pushing my sound further, and exploring themes that feel even more raw and real.

I can’t wait to wrap up this writing process and share the next story with the world. Every song is a journey, and I’m excited for what’s coming next. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.

CV: Thank you again for spending some time talking and sharing with our readers. I wish you all the best and continued success.

Zayd: I appreciate it—thank you for having me!

Check out Zayd at:

Listen Here: https://lnk.to/deceitanddesecrate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisizzayd/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisizzayd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisizzayd/

Website/Merch: https://www.thisizzayd.com

Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/seh16fz4h6h109mogm5tx/

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My name is Mick Michaels...I'm an artist, music fan, songwriter, producer, show host, dreamer and guitarist for the traditional Heavy Metal band Corners of Sanctuary. Writing has always been a creative outlet for me; what I couldn't say in speech, I was able to do with the written word. Writing has given me a voice and a way for me to create on a multitude of platforms including music and song, articles, independent screenplays, books and now, artist interviews. The Cosmick View is an opportunity to raise the bar and showcase artists in a positive and inspirational light. For me, it's another out-of-this-world adventure.