Julia Lloyd Singer-songwriter Zoe Zobrist returns today with her moving new single, “Oh Baby.” Currently pregnant with her first child, Zoe penned “Oh Baby” as a letter to the little life growing inside her. Over gentle acoustic strumming, her stirring vocals whisper hopes and dreams for her future child: “Will you stand a little stronger than I do / When the world feels it’s breaking you / When the doors are closing will you kick them through / Cause that’s all that I want for you.”
Amazed by the love she could feel for someone she has yet to meet, Zoe channeled the overwhelming emotions into a song that pulls at the heartstrings. It’s a brave and unapologetic track that unfurls her new life chapter ahead. “Parenthood is a massive transition for anyone; it’s a huge new chapter to open,” Zoe says. “Nothing will ever be the same but it’s so beautiful to grow into this new version of yourself. Knowing that you have the opportunity to take all the lessons you’ve learned and make a new little human’s world better is so powerful. Whether you have children on earth or waiting on the other side, are expecting or hope to someday, or feel love for the people who brought you this life, I hope this song can be close to your heart.”
With each new single, Zoe delivers brilliantly human and heart-wrenchingly honest vignettes. Her songs are as personal as they are dynamic.
Your love affair with music began at an early age; just 5 years old when you first learned to play the piano and began writing songs only 2 years later. What sparked the release of your debut single in 2018?
Zoe Zobrist (ZZ): “I had been living in Los Angeles and writing music for myself as well as for other artists. I had a handful of songs that I was feeling really excited about and it just felt like the right time to share my music with others!“
Your love for classic rock first ignited after stumbling upon your father’s 70s-era record collection. Though you have spent much of the last few years refining your sound and experimenting with different styles, how has this encounter influenced the music you strive to create, and the artists you look to for inspiration?
ZZ: “I still primarily listen to the music that I did growing up. Classic rock has such a special place in my life and it brings me a lot of comfort. I’ll always have some classic rock influences in my songs as well as the indie vibe. So much of that era is timeless and we’ve definitely seen a lot of that get re-popularized over the recent years! I love the earthiness, warmth, and the story-telling in the lyrics.”
With your new single “Oh Baby,” what is the main message you want your audience to take away from your new song?
ZZ: “I wrote this song as a letter to my little one right around the time I found out I was pregnant. I was going through a lot of change and sitting down to write this helped me feel more grounded and hopeful. It’s about wanting to do better for your babies than you had growing up, about unconditional love. I hope whether the listener is a parent now, wants to be someday, or is reflecting on their own parent – that they can feel that warmth & love.”
What scares and excites you the most about motherhood?
ZZ: “I’m really excited to meet the person that I’ve been growing for 10 months! It’s been such a surreal experience. I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily scared, but hopeful that I can be a balanced, patient, and emotionally aware mom.”
As this new chapter in your life unfolds, in what way have you found these overwhelming emotions contribute to a deeper understanding of yourself as an artist and/or individual?
ZZ: “This year I’ve definitely stepped out of my comfort zone in a lot of ways. I’ve been geographically all over the place between CA, TX, and GA. Stripped away any vices, re-evaluated friendships; really spent time working on myself and healing. It’s been a huge time of growth and I’m grateful for it.“
How do you plan on balancing raising a baby and your music career?
ZZ: “I hope to set an example for my child to follow your passions and do what makes you happy. I think it can be difficult for women because as amazing as this is – I am literally a food source for this person – so I’ll have him with me while recording in DC this spring for example. But I think if you look at it all as an adventure, it’s a huge gift to be able to live a creative life!”
How has the pandemic challenged the narrative you wish to follow as an artist? On the flip side, how can this time at home be seen as an opportunity to better one’s creativity, emotions, etc.?
ZZ: “I really thrive on playing live music, so I’ve really missed that. The energy exchange is just so special. I’m looking forward to getting back to that as soon as possible. However, I’m so grateful for the way online communities have really helped people stay connected, inspired, and feel less alone. We’re lucky to live in an age where that’s possible. I also think the time to reflect and slow down has been really beneficial for a lot of people.”
Pulse Music Magazine is a creative space allowing musicians to showcase their craft and build their audience. Is there any piece of advice you could offer other up-and-coming artists who wish to follow their dreams?
ZZ: “Create, create, create. Dive into your craft as much as possible and try not to attach yourself too much to the outcome. I think if you’re spending time making things that bring you joy and surrounding yourself with things and people that inspire you – the rest will come. It takes passion and lots of hard work which I try to remind myself of every day.”
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