5 Questions with Zealyn: Find Out What We’re Helping Her Cross Off Her Bucket List!
Zealyn may be a newcomer to the SoulFest stage - but she’s no stranger of SoulFest. Read below to learn more about the process she went through writing her new album, finding her sound and what one thing she is excited to cross off her bucket list! Don’t forget to head on over to thesoulfest.com to learn more about New England’s Largest Christian Music Festival!
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SF: Can you tell us about your new album and the story behind the songwriting process?
ZEALYN: Going into the studio to write and record this album was such a unique experience. Heading in, I only had half of one song written. I knew that I was about to spend two months working on a whole album, yet had no idea what to expect or what it would end up sounding like. It was an exciting, refreshing, yet terrifying feeling all in one. I didn’t set boundaries, or put limits to the creative process. I didn’t even have certain expectations. I just let creativity take over, and that was the best thing I ever could have done. I’m so excited to share these songs with people! The album is titled “Limbic System”, and will release early this summer.
SF: Some of our SoulFest staff members are big fans of Copeland. What was it like working with Aaron Marsh (lead singer of Copeland) on your new album? What was his role with the process?
ZEALYN: First, you should know that I too am a huge fan of Copeland! I actually met Aaron at one of his shows. I went to a coffee shop an hour before it started, and when I walked in, he was there. I was so excited to have met him, and later that night (through twitter DM) I asked him to produce my next album. Two months later I was in the studio with him! It was the most incredible experience I’ve ever had working with a producer. His creativity and musicianship continues to blow me away. Not only did he produce the entire album, but we also co-wrote all the songs together.
SF: Can you tell us about your growth as a musician and songwriter these past few years?
ZEALYN: I started seriously pursuing music three years ago. I had no idea what my sound was or what I was even capable of creating… So, I tried pop for a while and quickly realized that wasn’t the sound I wanted to pursue for the rest of my career. I knew that I could make music that was more unique, and that pushed myself more as an artist and as a songwriter. That is what this music is doing now. I believe that my fans can hear the growth in my music right away when they listen. I’m so proud of how my sound has evolved.
SF: Last year, you sold out two shows at the Cabot Theatre in your hometown of Beverly, MA. What was that like for you to see that kind of hometown support?
ZEALYN: I am continuously blow away by the support of my hometown. Not only just them, but all the people that have supported me the past 3+ years. I never take that for granted. I feel so blessed to have the fan base that I have, and I’m excited to see it grow.
SF: What about SoulFest are you looking forward to the most?
ZEALYN: I spent my high school years going to SoulFest almost every year! I have had so many of my friends perform on different stages, and I always loved supporting them! Throughout all those years I always dreamed about performing on the main stage. It has always been on my bucket list… and now, years later, it’s happening. I’m so looking forward to performing, and I’m going to soak in every second and enjoy the time I get to be onstage.
SF: We can’t wait! See you at SoulFest!
To learn more about SoulFest, or to see this year’s artist line up and purchase tickets, visit www.thesoulfest.com or call 978.346.4577.