In today’s A-Z challenge, we find out all about Zayd who took on our famed 26 questions!
A song that made you want to make music?
The entire Hybrid Theory album by Linkin Park was a game-changer for me. Before that, music was something I enjoyed, but when I heard that album, it hit me differently. It was more than just heavy riffs and melodies—it was raw emotion. It blended aggression and vulnerability in a way I had never experienced before. It made me realize that music isn’t just about sound; it’s about connection. That album spoke to parts of me I didn’t even know needed a voice, and it pushed me toward making music my purpose.
Best rider you have had?
I haven’t had a wild or extravagant tour rider yet, but if I could choose, it’d be simple but effective —a solid energy drink to keep the adrenaline up, plenty of water to stay hydrated, and maybe some hot sauce to keep things interesting (because let’s be real, a little spice makes everything better). If I ever get the chance to go crazy with a rider, I might add something unexpected—maybe a custom-built gaming rig backstage so I can unwind between sets.
Craziest moment as an artist?
One of the wildest moments happened during my last show of 2023. WWE was in town that night, and I had no idea that one of my favorite wrestlers, Drew McIntyre, was in the audience. In the heat of the moment, fueled by pure adrenaline, I jumped onto a table in the crowd—only to find out later that it was his table. At the time, I didn’t recognize him, but after the set, someone told me, and I couldn’t believe it. By the time I realized, he was already on his way out. Definitely a surreal experience!
Deepest lyric one of your songs features?
One of my deepest lyrics comes from “Runaway”: “I’m caught between two worlds, I’m torn apart. This love consumes me, yet I hide my heart.”
This lyric represents the constant battle between who I was and who I want to be. It’s about being torn between the past and the future, between fear and love. It reflects that internal struggle of wanting to embrace something real but feeling afraid to let go of old wounds. It’s personal, but I know so many people feel the same way—whether it’s about love, faith, or self-doubt.
Easiest song you wrote?
One of the easiest songs I wrote was “Castle of Blood.” Some songs take weeks to refine, but this one came together in a single session. The riff, the melody, and the lyrics all flowed effortlessly, as if the song was just waiting to be written. When inspiration hits like that, it’s an unreal feeling.
Favourite song in your set?
“Runaway.” Every song has its own energy, but “Runaway” stands out because of the way it connects with people live. The mix of melody and heaviness makes it an electrifying song to perform. It’s raw, emotional, and built for the pit. When I see people singing it back, I know it’s hitting them the way it hit me when I wrote it.
Guest you’d most like to feature on your record?
Without a doubt, Mark Tremonti (Alter Bridge, Creed). He’s been a huge inspiration for me, not just musically, but also personally. When I met him in 2017, I played my song “Father” for him, and he told me something I’ll never forget: “Let the world decide where this song belongs. Don’t hold back.”
Those words ignited my journey, and it would be incredible to come full circle and create a song together.
Hardest thing about being a solo artist?
Being a one-man army is both empowering and exhausting. In a band, responsibilities are split, but as a solo artist, everything falls on me—writing, recording, marketing, content creation, live performance prep, and more. The challenge isn’t just in making music; it’s in constantly wearing multiple hats while staying mentally and physically balanced. But the reward? Knowing that every song, every show, every connection with a fan is something I built from the ground up.
Interesting fact about you?
I’m an anime and F1 nerd. On race weekends—doesn’t matter if it’s 3 AM or 3 PM—I’m glued to the TV, cheering for Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Also, anime often inspires my music.
The themes of pushing past limits, overcoming struggles, and stepping into power reflect a lot of what I write about.
Joke you like to tell?
I like to keep things real, but if I had to drop a joke: “Why do metalheads never get lost?”
“Because they always follow the breakdown!”
(Okay, maybe that one was a bit too metal.)
Key to writing a song?
Emotion first. The best songs aren’t forced—they come from something real. I start with a feeling, then build everything around that. Whether it’s a guitar riff, a melody, or a lyric, it all has to serve the emotion behind the song.
Longest distance you’ve travelled to play a show?
Still early in my journey, but when the time comes, I’m ready to take my music worldwide.
Most inspiring musician you’ve experienced?
Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) and Chris Cornell (Soundgarden, Audioslave). Their voices carried so much pain, passion, and honesty, which is something I strive for in my own music. Mark Tremonti also changed my life.
New band/artist you’d recommend?
Eden_Dethroned. She’s a friend and her album The Heartbreak Chronicles is incredible. If you like raw emotion fused with powerful melodies, check it out.
Opening for this band/artist would be ideal?
Breaking Benjamin, Bullet for My Valentine, Three Days Grace, Alter Bridge, or Bring Me The Horizon. Their mix of heavy and emotional storytelling aligns with everything I create.
Place you’d most like to tour?
North America and Europe—especially Germany, the UK, and the US. The rock and metal fanbase there is insane. Playing Download Festival and Rock am Ring is on my bucket list.
Quote that you’d like to pass on to our readers?
Keep fighting. Keep believing in yourself. You are not alone. Music has the power to heal, to bring us together, and to remind us that we’re stronger when we stand as one.
Reason for the title of your forthcoming release?
“Deceit and Desecrate” represents the battle between betrayal and redemption, light and darkness.
It’s about tearing down what’s false to uncover the truth.
See me live at?
Right now, I’m in the creative zone, writing the next chapter of my music journey. But when I hit the stage, you’ll know—it’s going to be something special. Stay tuned, because live shows are definitely coming, and when they do, I’m bringing everything I’ve got.
The old days of music were better than the current, do you agree?
Every era has its strengths, but today, independent artists have more power than ever. The challenge is standing out in a crowded industry that prioritizes trends over artistry, but it also means we can connect directly with our fans.
Unusual merchandise?
Would love to do a custom hot sauce since I love spicy food. Maybe call it “Runaway Heat”?
Variations you’d like to do on one of your songs?
A stripped-down, orchestral version of “Runaway” would be epic—keeping the emotion but presenting it in a completely new way.
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything. They’re not just fans—they’re family. I call them Unity Tribe because we’re building something bigger than music—a community where no one feels alone.
X-rays or any treatments needed for performance-related injuries?
I once jumped off the stage mid-performance, landed straight into a puddle of beer, and completely wiped out. But the adrenaline was so high, I didn’t even realize how bad it was—I just kept singing and finished the set like nothing happened. Later, when the high wore off, I realized my back was completely wrecked. Ended up needing both a chiropractor and a deep tissue massage just to function again. Lesson learned? Beer puddles are the real mosh pit hazard!
You’re late for a show, whose fault is it?
100% my fault. I’ll be standing in front of the mirror, overthinking which t-shirt to wear, then trying to get my curly hair to cooperate. By the time I finally get everything looking right, I’ll realize I should’ve left 20 minutes ago. Rock ‘n’ roll chaos starts before the show even begins!
Zoo animal that best describes the personality of you?
A Raven. Mysterious, intelligent, and always watching. Ravens are known for their adaptability and resilience, much like my journey in music—constantly evolving, learning, and pushing forward no matter the obstacles. They also symbolize transformation, which connects deeply with my music’s themes of moving from darkness to light. Plus, let’s be real—there’s something badass about a raven soaring through the storm.