EMQs With Zayd
EMQs With Zayd
Hi everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with Canadian Rock/ Metal artist, Zayd. Huge thanks to him for taking part.
What is your name, what do you play and can you tell us a little bit about the history of the band?
I’m Zayd, a solo Rock and Metal artist from Saskatchewan, Canada. Unlike most in this genre, I handle everything—vocals, instrumentals, songwriting, and production—making it a one-man project. My music blends heavy riffs, haunting melodies, and raw emotions, telling stories of struggle, redemption, and self-discovery.
How did you come up with your band name?
Zayd is my name, but it also represents strength, growth, and resilience. It’s about overcoming struggles and moving from darkness to light—something I aim to convey through my music.
What Country / Region are you from and what is the Metal / Rock scene like there?
I’m from Saskatchewan, Canada—one of the coldest provinces, but the Rock and Metal scene is alive and passionate. While it’s not as big as in some other regions, there’s a strong underground community that truly supports heavy music.
What is your latest release?
My debut album, “Deceit and Desecrate”, was released recently, and it’s the most personal and intense project I’ve ever created. It dives deep into themes of inner conflict, betrayal, redemption, and self-discovery. Each track tells a different chapter of that journey—whether it’s the struggle to break free from the past, the fear of losing oneself, or the search for truth in a world full of deception.
Sonically, the album balances heavy aggression with vulnerability—hard-hitting riffs, melodic atmospheres, and emotionally charged vocals. It’s a raw, unfiltered representation of everything I stand for as an artist, and I hope it resonates with anyone who’s ever felt lost or broken.
Who have been your greatest influences?
My sound has been shaped by a mix of bands that bring both intensity and melody to their music. Alter Bridge, Skillet, Breaking Benjamin, Parkway Drive, Linkin Park, and Bullet for My Valentine have all played a huge role in influencing my style.
Mark Tremonti (Alter Bridge) in particular has been a major inspiration. Meeting him in 2017 changed the course of my music career. His advice—“Let the world decide where your music belongs. Don’t hold back.”—pushed me to release my first song. That moment still fuels me today.
What first got you into music?
My mom introduced me to Metallica and Iron Maiden when I was a kid, which planted the seed for my love of heavy music. But the real turning point was in 2000 when I heard “Hybrid Theory” by Linkin Park. That album hit me on a different level—it made me realize that music wasn’t just sound, it was emotion.
Over time, my passion for songwriting and performing grew. I started playing guitar, writing lyrics, and experimenting with recording. What started as an outlet turned into my purpose.
If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?
Without a doubt, Mark Tremonti. His songwriting and guitar work have inspired me since day one, and working with him would be a full-circle moment. I’d also love to collaborate with Ben Burnley from Breaking Benjamin—his ability to blend heavy, emotional, and atmospheric elements into his music is something I admire.
I’m also open to collaborations outside of Rock and Metal. Sometimes, the best music comes from unexpected pairings, and I’d love to experiment with that in the future.
If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?
Download Festival and Rock am Ring—hands down. Growing up, I watched performances from those festivals and imagined what it would be like to be on that stage. To play in front of a sea of Rock and Metal fans at one of the biggest festivals in the world would be a dream come true.
What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?
I haven’t received anything too weird yet—but I’m definitely looking forward to what’s to come. If you’re reading this, surprise me!
If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?
You’re not alone. Whatever you’re facing—fear, doubt, struggle—know that my music is here for you. We’re in this together.
If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?
Chester Bennington. His voice, his energy, and his ability to connect with people through music were unmatched. He was a massive inspiration to me, and the world lost him too soon.
What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?
I love the ability to create something out of nothing—turning emotions into sound, writing something that connects with people.
What I hate? The industry can sometimes feel more about trends than authenticity. But real music always finds its way to the right people.
If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?
More support for independent artists. The industry is still too focused on major labels, and breaking through as an independent musician takes a massive amount of effort.
Name one of your all-time favourite albums?
“Hybrid Theory” by Linkin Park. It’s a masterclass in blending heaviness with melody.
What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s or Downloads?
Vinyl for the experience, but digital for convenience.
What’s the best gig that you have played to date?
My hometown headliner at the Coors Event Center. That night made me realize that this dream was now a reality.
If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?
Probably something in filmmaking or photography—visual storytelling intrigues me just as much as music.
Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?
Mark Tremonti, Matt Tuck, Dave Grohl, Corey Taylor, and Mike Shinoda. That would be one hell of a conversation.
What’s next for the band?
Now that Deceit and Desecrate is out, I’m already writing new material. The next chapter is going to be even more intense, pushing my sound further while staying true to my message.
What Social Media / Website links do you use to get your music out to people?
Listen Here: https://lnk.to/deceitanddesecrate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisizzayd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisizzayd/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisizzayd/
Website/Merch: https://www.thisizzayd.com
Time for a very British question now. As an alternative to the humble sandwich, is the correct name for a round piece of bread common in the UK either a Bap, a Barm (or Barm Cake), a Batch, a Bun, a Cob, a Muffin, a Roll or a Tea Cake?
I’ll go with Bun—but honestly, as long as it holds a burger, I’m good.
Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Thank you for having me! And to everyone reading—keep pushing forward, chase your passion, and never let fear stop you!
Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.
