Shows
Off Key and On PitchMusic Business 101: What Every Artist Needs to Know to Protect Their Art and Build Their CareerIn this solo episode, Tzayla breaks down the music business in plain language, covering everything from copyright to contracts to making money as an indie artist. If you want to protect your music, scale your artistry, and build a sustainable career without selling your soul, start here. No fluff. Just the truth, tools, and tough love you need.Key Takeaways:Your song is your baby — learn the difference between composition and master rights, and why both matter.Join a PRO (Performing Rights Organization) like ASCAP or BMI to collect royalties every time your music is played.Us...2025-06-3010 minOff Key and On PitchNetworking Secrets Nobody Told You“Networking” gets tossed around in every industry conversation — but what does it really mean, and how do you actually do it (without being awkward, fake, or annoying)? In this episode, Tzayla breaks down the art of building authentic, long-term relationships in music. From her own story of going from Berklee classrooms to music biz lobbies, to practical steps you can take today, this is your no-fluff guide to connecting your way into the career you want.Key Takeaways:Why networking matters: Talent opens ears, but relationships open doors.What networking really is (and isn’t): Hint — it’s not a...2025-06-2310 minOff Key and On PitchFrom Broadway to TikTok - With Jordan SiwekIn this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Off Key and On Pitch, Tzayla talks with New York City-based singer, songwriter, and pianist Jordan Siwek. From Broadway stages to TikTok screens, Jordan shares how his music transforms darkness into light. They dive deep into authenticity, songwriting, going viral with intention, and using art as a force for healing and connection. This conversation is a love letter to every artist who just wants to be real—and be seen. Key Takeaways:Music is connection. Jordan’s TikTok success came from focusing on community over self-promotion—creating space for others...2025-06-1622 minOff Key and On PitchWhat Artists Get Wrong About the Industry (And What Actually Works) – With Dalton LewisIn this episode, Tzayla sits down with cinematographer and content strategist Dalton Lewis to explore his journey from filming concerts for free to working with both indie and label artists. They dive into the realities of music video production, the pros and cons of working with labels, the power of authentic networking, and why artists should drop the ego and stay real. A must-listen for anyone breaking into the creative industry. Key TakeawaysAuthenticity Wins: Real connections go further than rented Suburbans and fake personas. People can sense the real you—so stop acting and start sho...2025-06-0948 minOff Key and On PitchShe Had No Team, No Connections—Now She’s Playing Real Gigs. Here’s How.Ready to go from bedroom performances to real-world stages? In this episode, Tzayla pulls back the curtain on exactly how she booked her first shows—without a manager, a label, or a clue. Learn how to craft a killer set list, build an EPK that gets you noticed, and actually land paying gigs. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to level up your live show game, this episode is your no-nonsense guide to making it happen.Key Takeaways: Set Lists Matter: Have 2–3 versions ready for different crowds (bars, coffee shops, etc). Mix covers and originals.Cover...2025-06-0215 minOff Key and On PitchSongwriting Made Simple: A Step-by-Step GuideWelcome back to Off Key and On Pitch, your backstage pass to the unfiltered world of music! In this episode, Tzayla breaks down the songwriting process, offering a step-by-step guide to crafting meaningful lyrics and melodies. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or just starting out, this episode provides practical tips to help you bring your musical ideas to life.What You'll Learn: How to start your songwriting process with a clear idea and core messageBuilding your song's structure and crafting melodies that resonateReal-life application: an analysis of Tzayla’s song "Tug of War"Overcoming writer’s bloc...2025-05-1210 minOff Key and On PitchThe Hard Parts of Music Nobody Talks About – With Eva Rose and David PippinWhat does it take to make it in music—not just for a season, but for a lifetime?In this episode of Off Key and On Pitch, Tzayla sits down with acoustic duo Eva Rose and David Pippin, two artists who’ve shared the stage—and the struggle—for over 15 years. From playing for 20,000 fans at Springing the Blues to performing in dive bars, competitions, and living rooms, they’ve built a career on grit, grace, and staying power.They get real about the emotional weight of songwriting, the weird magic of live performance, how to push pa...2025-05-0541 minOff Key and On PitchPlaylists Won’t Make You Famous But This Will – With Mike WarnerMany artists believe that landing on major playlists is the key to success, but is that really the case? In this episode of Off Key and On Pitch, Tzayla sits down with Mike Warner, a streaming expert, author of “Work Hard Playlist Hard”, and consultant to independent artists and major platforms. Mike shares insights into the biggest misconceptions about playlists, why social media may be more important than streaming, and how artists can build a sustainable career in today’s industry.This episode is a must-listen for artists looking to grow their audience and make a lasting impact...2025-04-2835 minOff Key and On PitchHow to Stay Creative (Without Burning Out) in the Music IndustryIn this episode of Off Key and On Pitch, Tzayla dives into the pressures that come with being an artist and how to overcome them without losing your love for making music. From battling perfectionism to navigating the chaos of deadlines and expectations, Tzayla shares valuable insights on how to stay creatively energized without falling into the trap of burnout.As musicians, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind, constantly comparing yourself to others, obsessing over the next big release, or trying to keep up with trends. But there’s a better way. Tzayla expl...2025-04-2108 minOff Key and On PitchThe Courage to Grow: Chasing Dreams and Success – With Alexandra BeckIn this episode of “Off Key and On Pitch”, host Tzayla sits down with Alexandra Beck, a rising dance-pop singer-songwriter originally from Canada and now making waves in Los Angeles. Known for her powerful vocals and high-energy performances, Beck has graced stages at Lincoln Center, Canadian Music Week, and the Viper Room. Inspired by icons like Usher, Beyoncé, and Britney Spears, she brings a fresh twist to the early 2000s pop sound.What You’ll Learn: How Relocating Can Change Your CareerThe Secret to Standing Out in a Competitive IndustryWhy Collaboration Beats CompetitionThe Story Behind “Hit This”The P...2025-04-1421 minOff Key and On PitchThe Two Things That Will Change Your Music (and Your Life) Forever - With Jacob GrahamIn this unfiltered and wildly fun episode, Tzayla sits down with guitarist Jacob Graham (plus unofficial appearances of Victoria Amaya and Isabel “Izzy” Osman) to talk about the magic of live music, the power of collaboration, and the unexpected moments that make it all worth it. From the story behind “Arachne” to writing a brand-new song (Crocodile Tears), this episode is packed with laughter, music, and a whole lot of randomness.Key Takeaways:Music is an experience. It’s not just about listening—it’s about feeling, creating, and connecting.Collaboration makes everything better. The best ideas come fro...2025-04-0746 minOff Key and On PitchThe Importance of Knowing Your Why in Music - With Dani FeltIn this episode, I sit down with indie pop artist Dani Felt to talk about music, branding, and empowerment. Dani’s bold, dark pop anthems blend theatrical storytelling with raw emotion, drawing inspiration from artists like Imagine Dragons, Adele, and Billie Eilish. We dive into her journey from music blogger to branding expert, the story behind her latest single “Superhero”, and how understanding your “why” can transform your career.Key Takeaways: Know Your Why: Understanding why you create music is key to building a lasting career.Branding is More Than Aesthetics: It’s about your story and the messa...2025-03-3129 minOff Key and On PitchStudio Setup 101: High-Quality Music on a BudgetWelcome back to another exciting episode of Off Key and On Pitch! If you're aiming to elevate your music production but are working on a budget, this episode is for you. Join Tzayla as she takes you behind the scenes of her home studio setup, breaking down the essential gear for high-quality music production—without breaking the bank. From DAWs and microphones to interfaces, headphones, and plugins, she shares expert insights and budget-friendly recommendations. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, this guide will help you build a studio that delivers professional results.What You’ll Lear...2025-03-2412 minOff Key and On PitchMiddle School Us Would Be Screaming Right Now - With Pfifer SmithIn this nostalgic episode of Off Key and On Pitch, host Tzayla talks with her oldest friend, Pfifer Smith. Despite pursuing veterinary medicine at UTK, Pfifer has been a key supporter of Tzayla’s music journey since their middle school days—when they started their first podcast at 13 and sang original songs on scooters.Together, they share hilarious and heartfelt memories, from early songwriting attempts to Pfifer showing up (post-wisdom-teeth surgery!) for an album release. They also discuss playlists, social media, and what it’s like to support an emerging artist.What You'll Learn:The Or...2025-03-1740 minOff Key and On PitchHow Hard Work Beats Talent Every Time - With David PippinIn this episode of “Off Key and On Pitch”, Tzayla sits down with David Pippin—guitarist, music instructor, and owner of Pippin Music Academy. David shares his journey from discovering the guitar as a teenager to becoming a full-time musician, mentor, and business owner. With years of experience in live performance, sound production, and teaching, David offers valuable insights into what it really takes to make it in the music industry.What You'll Learn: The importance of hard work and consistency in musicWhy talent alone isn’t enough—how to stay motivated and disciplinedThe value of real relati...2025-03-1036 minOff Key and On PitchWelcome to the Journey!Welcome to Off Key and On Pitch, your backstage pass to the unfiltered world of music! In this very first episode, I introduce myself—Tzayla—and share my journey as an independent artist. From my early days running around with a Barbie guitar to teaching myself 14 instruments, studying music production, and reaching over 100k streams in 2024 alone, I break down the experiences that led me here. This episode is all about where I started, what I’ve learned, and what’s next. Plus, I’ll give you a sneak peek at what you can expect from future episodes, i...2025-03-0305 min
StuniverseStusic Episode 6: TzaylaIn this week's episode I chat with World Indie Pop artist Tzayla in my best interview yet in my opinion that unfortunately was met with some technical difficulties, some glitches that I did my best to edit around, at times Tzayala’s audio glitches yet the moments without are too good to completely cut out Check out Tzayla's website complete with all her streaming and socials:Tzayla – World Indie Pop ArtistMy stuff is available here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1JRD4Bm4LcS...2025-02-2556 min