Explore every episode of the podcast Off Key and On Pitch
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| If You’ve Ever Apologized for Your Song… Listen to This – With The Low Stakes Band | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:34:57 | |
Music isn’t supposed to be polite—it’s supposed to be true. In this episode, Tzayla sits down with New Hampshire duo The Low Stakes (Eric Colville & Ann Holbrook) to talk about finding your voice, writing songs that cut deep, and why honesty always matters more than polish. If you’ve ever wondered how “real” to be in your art, this conversation is your permission slip to stop apologizing and start creating. Key Takeaways:
Connect with The Low Stakes Band:
More from Tzayla:
Subscribe: Follow Off Key and On Pitch wherever you listen to podcasts, and share this episode with an artist who needs the reminder to stop second-guessing and start writing with courage. The world doesn’t need another polished product—it needs your song. Messy, unfiltered, and alive. So keep writing, keep dreaming, and let your music bleed honesty. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| Struggling to Grow on Social Media? Here’s the Fix | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:10:11 | |
Love it or hate it, social media isn’t optional for artists anymore—it’s the engine driving careers forward. In this episode, Tzayla gets real about the realities of building a platform and breaks down exactly how to use social media to grow your music, connect with fans, and actually get noticed. No fluff, no gimmicks—just a clear playbook you can start today. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Tzayla:
Subscribe: Follow Off Key and On Pitch for unfiltered, practical insights on building a real music career. More from Tzayla: Read the blog, stream the music, and catch more episodes at tzayla.com. Consistency builds momentum, and momentum builds careers. Be bold, be consistent, and show the world you. Social media doesn’t just grow numbers—it grows connection. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| What Every Artist Needs to Hear Before Moving to Nashville – With Daniel McCurdy | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:30:45 | |
In this heartfelt episode, Tzayla sits down with Nashville-based artist, producer, and songwriter Daniel McCurdy to talk about his journey from producing behind the scenes to stepping into the spotlight with a fresh country-inspired artist project. They dive deep into community, calling, the spiritual journey of being “good clay,” and the messy beauty of letting go of control in both music and life. If you've ever wrestled with direction or doubted your dream—this one’s for you. Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember: Adventure sounds like this. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______________ | |||
| Music Business 101: What Every Artist Needs to Know to Protect Their Art and Build Their Career | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:10:16 | |
In 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:
If something in this episode helped you or made you think, DM Tzayla on Instagram at @tzayla.official. She loves hearing from you all! Feel free to ask her questions, too, or let her know if you want her to do a deeper dive on something. You can keep your soul and share your song. You can protect your art and still dream like crazy. Your legacy doesn’t start when you blow up — it starts now, with every choice you make. So keep dreaming big, and thanks for tuning in! ______________ | |||
| Networking Secrets Nobody Told You | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:10:31 | |
“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:
Send one DM. Attend one event. Ask one question. You never know what conversation could change your life. Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember: Adventure sounds like this. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______________ | |||
| From Broadway to TikTok - With Jordan Siwek | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:22:13 | |
In 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:
Connect with Jordan Siwek:
Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember: Adventure sounds like this. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ________ | |||
| What Artists Get Wrong About the Industry (And What Actually Works) – With Dalton Lewis | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:48:34 | |
In 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 Takeaways
Resources & Links
Whether you're behind the mic or behind the camera, remember: you don’t have to fake it to make it. Keep it real. Build your crew. And keep creating. The world needs your story. Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember: Adventure sounds like this. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______________ | |||
| She Had No Team, No Connections—Now She’s Playing Real Gigs. Here’s How. | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:15:09 | |
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:
Resources & Links
Don’t wait for the green light—you are the green light. Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember: Adventure sounds like this. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ____________ | |||
| Songwriting Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide | 12 May 2025 | 00:10:42 | |
Welcome 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:
Want a written version of this songwriting method + exclusive writing prompts? DM @tzayla.official with your email! Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Thanks for tuning in, and keep dreaming big! ______ | |||
| The Hard Parts of Music Nobody Talks About – With Eva Rose and David Pippin | 05 May 2025 | 00:41:17 | |
What 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 past stage fright, and why so many bands fall apart when the going gets hard. This isn’t just a conversation. It’s a front-row seat to a masterclass in artistic resilience. If you're a musician, songwriter, performer, or even just a curious creative—you need to hear this. Key Takeaways:
Listen to Their Album:
Connect with Eva Rose:
Connect with David Pippin:
Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps us reach more music lovers like you. Keep Dreaming Big, and remember… adventure sounds like THIS ________ | |||
| Playlists Won’t Make You Famous But This Will – With Mike Warner | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:35:14 | |
Many 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. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Mike Warner: Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Keep Dreaming Big, and remember… adventure sounds like THIS ________ | |||
| How to Stay Creative (Without Burning Out) in the Music Industry | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:08:30 | |
In 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 explores the importance of embracing imperfection, the power of laughter, and the need to step away from the studio to experience life—all of which can help reignite your creative spark. Key Takeaways:
Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Keep Dreaming Big, and remember… adventure sounds like THIS ________ | |||
| This Mindset Shift Could Open Every Door in Your Career | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:06:11 | |
What’s the one skill that can transform your music career overnight? It’s not perfect pitch—it’s boldness. In this episode, Tzayla shares why asking for what you want is the fastest way to open doors in the music industry, how to handle “no” without losing momentum, and real-life stories of opportunities that only happened because she dared to ask. Key Takeaways:
More From Tzayla:
Subscribe & Share:
The only way you truly lose is by never asking at all. Be bold. Be brave. And remember—every “yes” you’ve ever gotten was waiting on the other side of a “no.” Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| The Courage to Grow: Chasing Dreams and Success – With Alexandra Beck | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:21:11 | |
In 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:
Connect with Alexandra Beck:
Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Off Key and On Pitch so you never miss an episode. Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow music lovers! Want to continue the conversation? Connect with Tzayla on Instagram @tzayla.official and let her know what resonated with you! Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______ | |||
| The Two Things That Will Change Your Music (and Your Life) Forever - With Jacob Graham | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:46:27 | |
In 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:
Links & Mentions:
Connect With Jacob Graham: Subscribe & Review! If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more amazing conversations like this to your ears. Plus, if you tag me on Instagram with your favorite moment, I might just give you a shoutout in the next episode! Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______ Off Key and On Pitch Official Website Stream Tzayla’s Music on Your Favorite Platform! | |||
| The Importance of Knowing Your Why in Music - With Dani Felt | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:29:31 | |
In 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:
Connect with Dani Felt:
Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Thanks for tuning in, and keep dreaming big! ______ | |||
| Studio Setup 101: High-Quality Music on a Budget | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:12:20 | |
Welcome 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 Learn:
Want a Full Gear List? DM Tzayla at @tzayla.official with your email, and she’ll send over a complete list of her recommended gear (with some added recommendations)! Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, please leave a review and share this episode so that we can reach more music lovers like you! Thanks for tuning in, and keep dreaming big! ______ | |||
| Middle School Us Would Be Screaming Right Now - With Pfifer Smith | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:40:26 | |
In 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:
If nostalgia was a tune, this episode hits all the right notes! Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Thanks for tuning in, and keep dreaming big! ______ | |||
| How Hard Work Beats Talent Every Time - With David Pippin | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:36:42 | |
In 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:
Connect with David Pippin:
Subscribe & Review: Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Off Key and On Pitch”! Your reviews help the show grow and reach more music lovers like you. If something resonated with you, share it on social media and tag @tzaylaofficial. Let’s keep the conversation going! Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______ Off Key and On Pitch Official Website Stream Tzayla’s Music on Your Favorite Platform! | |||
| Welcome to the Journey! | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:05:04 | |
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, including conversations with industry pros, songwriting deep dives, and raw insights into the music business. Key Takeaways:
Off Key and On Pitch will be a space for real talk, industry insights, and creative inspiration—so stay tuned! Connect with me:
Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leaving a review helps me reach more music lovers like you. Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! ______ | |||
| The Artist’s Responsibility to Lead – With Dr. Calvin H. Lawrence | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:21:11 | |
What if leadership wasn’t about titles or power—but presence, purpose, and the way you carry your voice? In this episode, Dr. Calvin H. Lawrence, author of The Happy Leader, joins Tzayla to unpack the deep connection between artistry and leadership. Whether you’re an emerging musician or building a creative movement, this conversation will challenge you to lead with more vision, integrity, and heart. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Dr. Calvin H. Lawrence:
More From Tzayla:
Subscribe & Share:
Leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. As artists, we have the power to shape culture, move hearts, and light the way for others. So lead with vision. Lead with courage. Lead with love. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| Stop Waiting for Spotify to Pay You: How to Actually Make Money from Music | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:07:41 | |
Making music is magic—but making it a career takes more than just streams and shows. In this episode, Tzayla breaks down the real income streams available to musicians today, how to start them, and which ones can turn your passion into a paycheck. From sync licensing to TikTok live streaming, you’ll learn exactly how to diversify your earnings so your music career can actually last. Key Takeaways:
More From Tzayla:
Subscribe & Share:
You’re not just an artist—you’re a creative entrepreneur. Build your art, but also build your business. The more legs you give your career table, the stronger it will stand. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| This Is for the Artist Who Feels Like Giving Up – With Orphan Prodigy | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:26:01 | |
What if the thing that almost broke you…became the very thing that saved you? In this episode, Tzayla sits down with Orphan Prodigy to explore how music became his medicine during a mental health crisis—and how he’s now using his sound to heal others. From agoraphobia to charting at #78, this story is raw, inspiring, and deeply human. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Orphan Prodigy:
More From Tzayla:Explore music, read the blog, or find upcoming projects athttps://tzayla.comtzayla.comSubscribe for new episodes every week! You are not broken. You are becoming. Music isn’t just what we do—it’s what helps us become. Keep showing up, even when it's hard. Your voice matters. Your story matters. And you’re right on time. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| Turn Your Lyric Scraps Into a Finished EP – With Marli Delaney | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:39:45 | |
If your Notes app is overflowing with half-written lyrics, scattered ideas, and dusty voice memos, this episode is your sign to start finishing. Tzayla sits down with singer, songwriter, producer, and creative coach Marli Delaney to talk about turning fragments into finished songs, building sustainable artistic momentum, and why mindset matters more than fancy gear. You’ll learn Marli's 3-month songwriting method, the “Three I’s” that guide her creative life, and why your scraps aren’t trash—they’re seeds. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Marliii:
More from Tzayla:
The scraps don’t mean you’re broken. They mean you’re building. So keep writing, keep becoming, and keep dreaming big. Thanks for listening! Adventure sounds like THIS ___________ | |||
| The 3 Copyright Exceptions That Could Cost You Everything | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:09:25 | |
In this follow-up to the “Copyrights Crash Course” episode, Tzayla reveals three major legal exceptions that could strip you of your rights—even if you wrote, recorded, and released the song yourself. Whether you’re doing work-for-hire, releasing covers, or writing with friends, this episode is your roadmap to protecting your music before it’s too late. Key Takeaways:
Helpful Tools & Resources:
More from Tzayla:
Let’s Connect: Questions about collaborations, cover licenses, or contracts? DM Tzayla or drop a comment—she’s here to help artists navigate the stuff nobody teaches. Copyright gives you rights. But contracts, licenses, and collaborators can take those rights away—or split them up. So read the fine print, know your people, and never sign your power away by accident. Adventure sounds like THIS Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big! ____________ | |||
| The Spotify Pitch Formula Every Indie Artist Needs to Know – With Sam Friske | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:27:30 | |
Tired of pitch forms, playlist chaos, and all the backend stuff that takes time away from making music? In this game-changing episode, Tzayla talks with Sam Friske, founder of the music tech startup Cadence I.O., about how artists and teams can streamline their marketing—and write Spotify pitches that actually work. Whether you’re DIY or building a label of your own, this episode is packed with tools, insight, and clarity you didn’t know you needed. Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
More from Tzayla:
You don’t need to do everything. You just need the right tools, the right people, and the courage to stay authentic. Adventure sounds like THIS Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big! _____________ | |||
| The Copyright Crash Course Every Musician Needs | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:07:50 | |
This one’s for every songwriter, producer, and creator who’s ever wondered, “Do I actually own my song?” In this must-hear episode, Tzayla breaks down everything you need to know about copyrights—what they are, how they’re created, how to protect them, and how to avoid getting ripped off. Whether you’re releasing your first single or building a catalog, this episode will help you stop guessing and start owning your work like a pro. Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
More from Tzayla:
Got questions? DM @tzayla.official or leave a comment—especially if there's a specific copyright, royalty, or contract topic you’d like her to break down in a future episode. Your music is valuable. Your rights are real. And protecting them is one of the most powerful things you can do for your future. Don’t wait until something goes wrong—get smart now. Adventure sounds like THIS Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big! _____________ | |||