Zach Oliver
Toronto-based singer Zach Oliver has seen early success in his time as a professional musician. Inspired at a young age to make music after watching School of Rock, Zach has been releasing his songs since 2018. Following his streaming debut with “You and Me”, he’s amassed a following of over 36 thousand Spotify monthly listeners. The song received 356 thousand streams and gave the artist a quickly growing fanbase. This year, he dropped another hit, ”Seaside”, after the release of his first album Banzai. He’s been featured on Spotify’s curated playlists, including indie pop and chill, Bedroom Pop, and Fresh Finds: Indie. With a few hits under his belt, the future looks bright. We recently spoke with Zach Oliver about his musical style, his favorite hobbies, and more!
How did you get started making music?
When I moved here from England at 8 years old, I didn't really have much to do yet cuz I hadn't made any friends or started school. I was watching the movie School of Rock with Jack Black and wanted nothing more than to be one of those kids playing music all day haha. So I picked up my mum's old guitar and asked her to show me some stuff, so that I could learn every song from the movie.
Who are some of your greatest musical influences?
Growing up I was heavily influenced by John Mayer and Coldplay in terms of songwriting and wanting to play live shows. Also, people like Amy Winehouse and Stevie Wonder changed the way I looked at music because of how much soul was behind everything they do.
What’s one talent that you wish you had?
I don't know if this is a talent or a skill but I wish I could fly planes just so I could go anywhere by my own means and see the world.
You’ve been on both the “Fresh Finds: Indie” and “Fresh Finds: Pop” Spotify playlists. Which genre do you think fits your music more?
I'm not entirely sure how to answer that because I've found that any time I get too caught up in what genre music I'm trying to make, it never comes out as genuine as it should be. I think as the maker of the music, you should just make what feels right and let everyone else decide.
On the topic of expounding upon your work, describe your music in 3 words.
Relatable, love-longing, honest.
Favorite non-music activities?
I love skateboarding with my pals, going to the pub, hanging with my family.
Any future projects that fans can get excited about?
Absolutely! During this pandemic, I've more or less been locked up at my parents place making an entire bedroom pop kinda feeling project - which I love! Also, I have a super fun soulful album that I made before the summer with two really talented producers that I'm so stoked to get out there.
