Ever felt like music is just noise and not a journey? Buckle up, because today’s Z Frequency Spotlight takes us into the moody, cinematic world of Briauna, a self-taught indie dark pop artist who’s not just creating tunes; she’s crafting atmospheres. Imagine Lana Del Rey meets Danny Elfman.

In this mini episode, I explore:

- How Briauna’s raw, instinct-driven songwriting creates vulnerability that resonates deeply.

- The influences that shape her ambient, eerie storytelling, including a playlist featuring Lana Del Rey and Elfman.

- The significance of community and collaboration in the indie scene.

- Why Briauna’s new single “Lobotomy” tackles heavy themes, such as erasing memories and confronting darkness.

- Two must-listen tracks: “Skeleton Boy” and “Tired,” emphasizing the importance of mood and message.

- The power of focusing on “what I’m learning” rather than dwelling on what’s wrong.

Connect with Briauna:

- Instagram: https://instagram.com/briauna.official

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1gH1iS0bw6ulgsnvOWH1td?si=56k0BYPDSUaVn5ivOvc4SQ

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH1y7dGhv3M8HyaqvacVgAg

- Booking: https://briaunamusic.kit.com/d6f401f3f4

Most importantly, support Briauna by streaming her singles, sharing her story, and following her creative journey. Peace out!

For more, visit: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters:

00:00: Introducing Brianna: The Dark Pop Artist

02:24: Exploring Brianna’s New Single ‘Lobotomy’

03:23: The Importance of Collaboration and Community

The Gilder Era is here! Indie pop artist Charlie Gilder breaks down his mindset, the "Play the Game" philosophy, and finding your sound on the ZHZ Podcast.

In this episode of the ZHZ Podcast, Zak and Matt sit down with musician and producer Charlie Gilder to dive deep into his artistic journey. We talk about the transition into "The Gilder Era," the grit required to make it as an indie pop artist today, and what it really means to "play the game" in the modern music industry. Charlie shares the stories behind his latest tracks, his creative process in the studio, and why having the right mindset is the only thing that keeps you moving forward as a creator.

Support & Follow Charlie Gilder:

Charlie is making waves in the indie pop scene—make sure you’re following the journey and streaming the latest tracks:

* Official Website & Hub: https://gilder-prod.square.site

* Listen on Spotify: Stream “ITOLDYA” and more https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg

Connect with the ZHZ Podcast:

Love the conversation? Discover more episodes, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive content from Zak and Matt at our main hub:

👉 https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all things Z Frequency and the ZHZ Podcast!

Chapters:

00:00 I Didn't Wake Up to Be Average

01:03 The Real Reason We Do This

10:18 Rapid Fire Round

21:31 Music as the Soundtrack to Life

25:35 Outro

#independentmusic #artistinterview #zhzpodcast

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
• Spotify (featured release): 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

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