As seen in Guitar Girl Magazine Issue 23 – Fall 2023
In this exclusive Take Five interview with Guitar Girl Magazine, we sit down with the exceptionally talented Zaniah, a trailblazing Black female guitarist whose musical journey is as inspiring as her soulful melodies. From the tender age of 15, Zaniah embarked on a path that would not only define her sound but also her essence as an artist. Her story is one of curiosity, self-discovery, and relentless passion for music, nurtured by the vibrant sounds of Louisville, KY, and the diverse musical backdrop provided by her family. As we delve into her musical background, inspirations, and the creative process behind her songwriting, Zaniah opens up about the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her into the artist she is today. With a voice that resonates with authenticity and guitars that are an extension of her soul, Zaniah’s narrative is a testament to the power of music to inspire, connect, and transform.
Tell us a little about your musical background; how old were you when you started playing guitar, and what inspired your passion for music?
I started singing at the age of 15. I remember feeling inspired by a friend I had in middle school who would sing at different places around town in Louisville, KY, where I’m from. I explored and discovered my own passion and unique abilities through her passion. I found my love for music through curiosity. I’ve always been drawn to sound, and I believe that with awareness and true alignment, you can hear music happening at all times.
My first love was old country music, and a 15-year-old me was very intrigued by the acoustic guitar. I shared my dreams of wanting to sing on big stages with my mother and performed for her in our living room each time I learned a new song. She gave me my first guitar at 15, which always stuck with me, unlike most other things I tried. I began writing songs that were significantly influenced by country music. When I was old enough for an Instagram, I started posting videos of me singing my favorite cover songs. I taught myself to sing well by listening to music and creating renditions. Singing has always come naturally to me; there’s that voice within me that never leaves, even when I feel disconnected. At 18, soul and R&B music significantly influenced my life while living in Tennessee, and I began exploring that world with an entire focus. It influenced my sound majorly and strengthened my voice. Growing up, my father was like a walking jukebox; he played a lot of different music, and I learned a lot through the love he held for it.
Singing and playing guitar have been my ongoing journey since I was 15, and I am 24. Young me would be so proud of how far I have come and all the cool things I’ve gotten to participate in using my God-given gift.
What inspires you to wake up every day and continue pursuing your dreams?
If I’m honest, it’s not every day that I feel like continuing. I have moments and sometimes whole periods where I question myself and my mission. Peaks and valleys, my mom always said. I’ve learned to ride with the waves, and life feels worth living when inspired. Those moments keep me going. Music continues to find me even when I deny its significance. The “keep going” message somehow makes it to me every time. I feel inspired when I am being good to myself, treating myself with kindness, and staying focused and disciplined; as an artist, though, sometimes the self-sabotage wants to take over, and it’s easy to feel discouraged. A lot of my journey has been finding myself through the music I make from the experiences I have, both fortunate and unfortunate.
Take us through your songwriting process. What types of environments do you feel you need to be your most creative?
My songwriting process can either be swift or take months to finish an idea. I begin with a track from a producer or a chord progression I come up with on the guitar. Next, I freestyle whatever comes to mind while recording. Afterward, I listen back and try to piece together the puzzle. I figure out what melodies sound the best.
Writing can sometimes be the most challenging part for me. I find it difficult to sit still often, so I usually work on things for weeks and sometimes months. I take my time with the process because there’s never a rush despite feeling like it. Writing takes a lot of brain power. I have found it draining at times, but there’s no better feeling than finally finding the right words.
I’ve found that I enjoy writing in nature. It’s easier to think in the grass near some water with wildlife surrounding and reminding you just to exist.
What guitars are you playing right now? Name your top two or three.
I’ve been using my 1978 Ovation Balladeer for about three years now. It has some history and character to it. I also sometimes like to use my nylon string guitar when I want to go for a different sound. There’s something extraordinary about the acoustic guitar that I have always admired.
Finish this sentence: I believe music…
I believe music is all around us, helping us connect to ourselves and others. Whether you actively engage with music by playing an instrument, singing, composing, or even listening, it’s undeniable that music is a significant part of the human experience. Music transcends boundaries and speaks to our deepest emotions.
~ By Guitar Gabby and Jennale Adams