In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and collaborator, the powerhouse artist Bridget Barkan. From growing up in a musical family to carving out her own path, Bridget opens up about the mentors who shaped her, the lessons learned through collaboration, and the courage it takes to step out of your comfort zone.

We talk about the real challenges of childhood in the arts, the pursuit of finding your authentic voice in an industry full of noise, and the balance between artistry, personal life, and self-care. This conversation dives deep into the power of genuine relationships, setting healthy boundaries in creative spaces, and the community that sustains us as artists.

Whether you’re an emerging creative, a seasoned musician, or simply someone who values the raw truth behind the art, this episode is a reminder that the journey is never just about music. It’s about connecting with people, healing, and being intentional.

In this conversation, Phinees Robert and Zaxai discuss how intentional authentic relationships can be developed in the music business. Zaxai shares the personal stories behind some of his songs and the cultural influences that shape his music. We also discuss artists' challenges and how to find their identity and purpose. The conversation concludes with a Q&A session and a live performance of one of his favorite songs.

Takeaways

*Zaxai's music is deeply influenced by his personal experiences and relationships.

* The value of cultural diversity in music that aims to blend different genres and rhythms in his songs.

*How to overcome challenges in finding his identity and purpose as an artist.

*Being part of a supportive community of talented musicians helps growth and improve as a musician.

*The importance of being intentional and consistent in pursuing one's passion.

*Zaxai's performance of an exclusive live rendition of his song 'Do You Mind?'

Chapters00:00

Introduction and Personal Journey

01:28

Connecting with Music and Cultural Influences

10:28

Impact and Influence on Others

13:39

Overcoming Challenges and Finding Identity

21:38

Dealing with Fear and Imposter Syndrome

27:33

Being Intentional and Consistent

34:43

Exclusive Live Performance of new song: 'Do You Mind?'

ZAXAI IS ON TOUR!

NEXT SHOW COMING UP IN LYNCHBURG VIRGINIA

1000 JEFFERSON ST

Saturday, July 13 · 7 - 9:30pm EST

GO GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/music-is-forever-concert-series-w-zaxai-tickets-883670019817

Don't miss out on this incredible event - mark your calendars now!

FOLLOW ZAXAI:

linkTree :https://linktr.ee/zaxaiY

Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/ZaxaiOfficial/videos

instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/zaxaiii/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/zaxaiofficial/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2SfnpuD5RA1s5sFgjNJVI7B

Bandcamp:

https://zaxai.bandcamp.com/

Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/zaxai/1128912642

Soundcloud:⁠⁠⁠⁠

https://soundcloud.com/zaxai⁠⁠⁠⁠

FOLLOW ME:-

📺 [YouTube: Subscribe to my Youtube Channel https://youtube.com/@phinestro

For inquiries and collaboration opportunities, reach out to me at my email phineesrobert@gmail.com Connect with me! Below -

🌐 [Official Website] http://www.phinestro.com

Linkedin.https://www.linkedin.com/in/phineesrobert/

Follow Me On Instagram

www.instagram.com/phinestro

Podcast

www.instagram.com/theplayingitbyearpodcast/

On this Podcast Episode 2 of 3 with Zaxai, We discuss our experiences in the music industry and the importance of being involved in non-profit work which is a vital importance of using one's platform to make a positive impact. Zaxai reflects on his time on The Voice and the way how he was able to leverage his national recognition to further his career. You will get to know the challenges and lessons we learned in the music business and the importance of treating music as a business which also highlights the role of mentors in shaping our journey

Takeaways

• Collaborating with talented professionals can elevate the quality of music videos and create a cinematic experience.
• Involvement in non-profit work can provide opportunities for personal growth and make a positive impact on others.
• Leveraging national recognition can open doors and create opportunities in the music industry.
• Treating music as a business and understanding marketing and budgeting are essential for success.

Having mentors and a supportive community can provide guidance and help navigate challenges in the music industry.

ZAXAI IS ON TOUR!

NEXT SHOW COMING UP IN LYNCHBURG VIRGINIA

1000 JEFFERSON ST

Saturday, July 13 · 7 - 9:30pm EST

GO GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/music-is-forever-concert-series-w-zaxai-tickets-883670019817

Don't miss out on this incredible event - mark your calendars now!

Chapters

00:00

Collaborating with Christopher Aaron: Creating Cinematic Music Videos

02:26

Involvement in Non-Profit Work: Using Fame to Make a Positive Impact

09:26

Leveraging National Recognition: Opportunities in the Music Industry

11:19

Treating Music as a Business: Lessons Learned in the Music Business

This Episode was Filmed by Chac Stewart of Film House Creative Follow Chac Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatguyshock/?hl=en @ThatGuyShock Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chac-stewart-b1aa8a18a/

FOLLOW ZAXAI:

linkTree :

https://linktr.ee/zaxai

Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/ZaxaiOfficial/videos

instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/zaxaiii/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/zaxaiofficial/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2SfnpuD5RA1s5sFgjNJVI7

Bandcamp:

https://zaxai.bandcamp.com/

Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/zaxai/1128912642

Soundcloud:

⁠ https://soundcloud.com/zaxai⁠

FOLLOW ME:

- 📺 [YouTube: Subscribe to my Youtube Channel https://youtube.com/@phinestro **For inquiries and collaboration opportunities, reach out to me at my email phineesrobert@gmail.com Connect with me! Below - 🌐 [Official Website] http://www.phinestro.com - 📰 [LinkedIn: Connect with Phinees Robert] / phineesrobert ) Follow Me On Instagram www.instagram.com/phinestro www.instagram.com/theplayingitbyearpodcast/