Zach Haines: Country Music Singer & Master Storyteller

Episode Summary

Zach Haines, a country music singer from Jefferson, Georgia, shared his musical journey with Brad Banyas on the SaltyMF GOAT Podcast. Zach began playing guitar at 10, influenced by Nirvana and Green Day, and later discovered country music through his hardworking grandfather. He joined the army at 19, serving in Iraq, and continued playing music despite challenges. After his daughter's passing in 2013, he turned to songwriting, leading to his first album. Zach's band, composed of members from different age groups, supports his dream of playing at Billy Bob's in Texas. He emphasized the importance of genuine connections and storytelling in music.

Zach Haines' Introduction and Early Musical Influences

• Brad introduces Zach Haines, a country music singer from Jefferson, Georgia, and welcomes him to the show.
• Zach Haines shares his early musical journey, starting with his first guitar at age 10, given by his grandmother.
• Zach mentions his initial musical influences, such as Nirvana and Green Day, and how he learned guitar intros.
• He talks about his family's musical background, including his great uncles who had a band in the 60s called the Orbits.

Military Service and Music in Iraq

• Zach recounts joining the army at 18, taking his guitar with him, and playing music during his deployment to Iraq.
• He describes buying a guitar in Iraq and receiving a better electric guitar from his parents via expensive shipping.
• After being wounded in Iraq, Zach was medically retired and started writing songs as a form of therapy.
• He explains how writing songs felt more natural and comfortable than keeping a diary, which he initially tried.

Personal Tragedy and Songwriting

• Zach shares the impact of his daughter's passing in 2013, which pushed him back into songwriting as a way to cope.
• He wrote a song called "Burns," which tells the story of his return home and the emotional aftermath.
• Zach recalls his wife's initial reaction to the song, which was mixed but ultimately positive.
• He mentions the support of local musician Corey Smith, who advised him to practice and record his songs professionally.

Building a Music Career

• Zach talks about the process of recording his first album with the help of Lee Davis at the Lee Davis Studio in Maysville.
• He describes the challenges of learning to play to a click track and the importance of practice.
• Zach explains how he started playing shows and selling CDs through CD Baby, despite the decline in physical album sales.
• He reflects on the journey of building his music career while balancing family responsibilities.

Challenges and Reflections on Life

• Brad and Zach discuss the impact of personal tragedies and how they shape one's perspective on life.
• Zach shares his thoughts on humility and avoiding drama, contrasting his younger, more arrogant self with his current outlook.
• They talk about the importance of storytelling and how it is often overlooked in favor of quick social media content.
• Zach emphasizes the value of genuine connections and supporting others in the music industry.

Musical Inspirations and Songwriting Process

• Zach discusses his musical influences, including Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and other classic country artists.
• He describes his songwriting process, which involves feeling an emotion to write effectively.
• Zach mentions his frustration with half-written songs and the importance of capturing the right feeling at the right time.
• He shares his admiration for other musicians who can write quickly and consistently, like Eminem.

Family and Music Dynamics

• Zach talks about his son's interest in music and his own desire to play shows together one day.
• He reflects on the balance between music and other responsibilities, such as his son's involvement in sports and social life.
• Zach shares the dynamic of his band, which includes members of different ages and backgrounds, creating a unique and cohesive group.
• He describes the camaraderie and support within the band, which makes touring and performing enjoyable.

Future Aspirations and Venue Dreams

• Zach expresses his dream of playing at Billy Bob's in Texas, a renowned honky-tonk venue.
• He mentions the support he receives from his listeners and followers, particularly in Texas.
• Zach discusses his plans to tour Texas and test the waters for potential performances.
• He reflects on the importance of playing in venues that resonate with his music and audience.

The Role of Community and Support

• Brad and Zach discuss the importance of community and support in the music industry.
• They talk about the challenges of being a musician and the need for genuine connections and partnerships.
• Zach shares his mentor Lee Davis's advice to appreciate the opportunity to make a living through music.
• They emphasize the value of building a team and supporting each other in the industry.

Final Thoughts and Future Collaborations

• Zach gives a shout-out to his wife, son, and band members, expressing gratitude for their support.
• He mentions the possibility of having his band members on the show in the future.
• Brad and Zach discuss the idea of organizing a multi-genre music event to showcase various artists.
• They express mutual appreciation and excitement for future collaborations and community-building efforts.