Check Out Manuel Garrido-Rodriguez’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Manuel Garrido-Rodriguez.

Hi Manuel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Manuel Garrido-Rodriguez, and I’m thrilled to share my musical journey with you. Born and raised in Santiago de Chile, I discovered my passion for guitar at the age of 15, igniting a flame that has burned brightly for over 20 years. I began by learning the songs of Stone Temple Pilots and Pearl Jam, immersing myself in the captivating world of grunge. Since then, I’ve dedicated countless hours to mastering the guitar and delving into music theory, mostly through self-guided exploration.

My musical versatility knows no bounds, encompassing both the acoustic and electric guitar. I derive inspiration from a diverse range of artists, resulting in a rich tapestry of influences that shape my unique sound. The raw intensity of grunge icons such as Alice in Chains, Jeff Buckley, Chris Cornell, and Alain Johannes resonates deeply with me. At the same time, I draw from the timeless allure of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors, infusing my music with a touch of classic rock nostalgia. Expanding beyond these boundaries, my artistic vision is further shaped by the genius of Jimi Hendrix, the soulful grooves of James Brown, the improvisational brilliance of Miles Davis, the virtuosity of Guthrie Govan, and the everlasting impact of The Beatles.

In 2020, I embarked on an exciting new chapter, relocating to Decatur, Georgia, with my wife, who hails from the United States. Settling into the vibrant local music scene, I was captivated by the exceptional talent and creativity surrounding me. This environment sparked a deep desire to explore my potential as a musician. I began by sharing my love for rock through covers at open mic nights in venues such as Waller’s Coffee Shop in Decatur and Kat’s Cafe in Atlanta.

But my musical exploration didn’t stop there. I craved a deeper connection with my audience and the freedom to experiment and push my musical boundaries. That’s when I embraced the art of busking, taking my music to the streets of Decatur Square, Harmony Park, and the lively BeltLine. The raw and unfiltered nature of busking allowed me to try new things, constantly evolve, and receive direct feedback from the public. This immersive experience not only bolstered my confidence but also forged meaningful connections with those who appreciated and resonated with my music.

In 2021, I took a leap and established “Zouthern Lights,” a brand that symbolizes my musical identity and serves as a platform to formally present my covers and collaborations. And now, in 2023, I find myself embarking on an exciting new chapter as I work tirelessly to bring my musical vision to life. Currently, I’m assembling a band, handpicking talented musicians who share my passion for fusion music. Together, we’re crafting original songs that blend genres and push artistic boundaries.

In the coming months, my goal is to solidify Zouthern Lights as a dynamic power trio of fusion music. We aspire to captivate audiences not only in Atlanta but also in the surrounding areas. With a blend of electrifying performances and thought-provoking compositions, we aim to leave an indelible mark on the music scene, inviting listeners on a transformative journey of sound and emotion.

This is just the beginning of my musical odyssey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story with you. So, stay tuned as Zouthern Lights shines brightly, illuminating the path we’ve carved through the fusion landscape.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any pursuit of passion, there have been obstacles to overcome and lessons to learn along the way. Relocating to Decatur, Georgia, in 2020 presented a new set of challenges. While I was inspired by the exceptional talent and creativity in the local music scene, establishing myself in a new environment and building connections took time and effort. It required me to step out of my comfort zone and share my music through open mic nights and busking, embracing the vulnerability of public exposure.

Building a band and crafting original fusion music has also been a journey with its own set of obstacles. Finding talented musicians who share the same passion and vision can be a meticulous process. However, I believe that assembling a dedicated team will be crucial in bringing our musical vision to life.

Yet, despite these challenges, each hurdle has been an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. I’ve learned to adapt, persevere, and evolve as an artist. The support and appreciation from those who resonate with my music have been invaluable sources of inspiration that fuel my determination.

So, while the road hasn’t always been smooth, it is these challenges that have shaped me as a musician and made me appreciate the journey even more. I embrace them as part of the process, knowing that they have contributed to my growth and the unique sound of Zouthern Lights.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a musician, I specialize in guitar and have dedicated over 20 years to honing my craft. I pride myself on my versatility, as I am proficient in both acoustic and electric guitar, allowing me to explore a wide range of musical styles and genres. My unique sound is a result of blending various influences, including grunge icons like Jeff Buckley, Chris Cornell, and Alain Johannes, as well as classic rock legends such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. Drawing inspiration from these diverse sources, I aim to create music that resonates with listeners and evokes a sense of nostalgia while pushing artistic boundaries.

What sets me apart from others is my relentless dedication to self-guided exploration and continuous growth. I have invested countless hours in mastering the guitar and delving into music theory, always pushing myself to evolve as a musician. Additionally, my immersive experiences, from performing covers at open mic nights to busking on the streets, have allowed me to forge authentic connections with my audience and gain valuable feedback. These experiences have bolstered my confidence and strengthened my ability to connect with people through my music.

I am most proud of the establishment of “Zouthern Lights” in 2021, which serves as a platform to present my covers and collaborations formally. It represents my musical identity and allows me to showcase my artistry more cohesively and professionally. Now, in 2023, I am excited to embark on a new chapter by assembling a band and crafting original songs that fuse different genres, creating a distinctive and captivating sound.

Ultimately, what sets me apart is my passion for fusion music and my unwavering commitment to creating an immersive and transformative experience for my listeners. With Zouthern Lights, I aim to captivate audiences with electrifying performances and thought-provoking compositions that push the boundaries of what fusion music can be. I am proud to be on this musical odyssey, and I look forward to the journey ahead, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene with my unique artistic vision.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
Luck has undoubtedly played a role in both my life and musical journey. While talent, hard work, and dedication are essential components of success, luck can sometimes be the unexpected factor that propels us forward or presents unforeseen challenges.

In terms of good luck, I have been fortunate to encounter various opportunities throughout my career. Relocating to Decatur, Georgia in 2020 introduced me to a vibrant local music scene, where I was able to immerse myself in a community of talented musicians and creative individuals. This environment provided fertile ground for growth and collaboration, allowing me to expand my musical horizons and explore my potential as an artist.

Ultimately, luck may open doors or present hurdles, but it is our response to these circumstances that determines our success. By combining perseverance, talent, and seizing opportunities with a dash of good fortune, I am confident in my ability to navigate the unpredictable nature of the music industry and continue on my musical path.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mgarridor.com/zouthernlights/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zouthernlights/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zouthernlights
• Other: https://www.bandmix.com/zouthern_lights/ 

Image Credits
Melissa Hartung