Today we’d like to introduce you to ZØYA.
Hi ZØYA, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Pinsk, Belarus and moved to the United States at 11, growing up in Columbus, Ohio in a Christian, Slavic household where soul, gospel, and worship music were a constant presence. I started singing in church and writing songs and poems when I was a kid—it was always my way of expressing what I was feeling and holding onto hope.
Music became more than just a passion or hobby when I started performing and recording seriously in my early 20s. In 2018, I had the chance to go through the judges’ round on American Idol Season 16, which was a pivotal moment that gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward. My breakout single “So Far Away” organically blew up on TikTok, with over 170,000 video creations and led to collaborations with brands like Dove, Jay Shetty, and Benefit Cosmetics.
Since then, I’ve written and independently released two EPs, multiple singles, and continuing evolving and finding my sound. I played major festivals alongside acts like DNCE and Third Eye Blind. I’ve also launched two independent tours with sold out shows in cities like London, New York, Los Angeles, and my hometown, Columbus.
Right now, I’m working on a new EP/album in Nashville, TN (fully self-producing some of the songs for the first time – which is exciting!) that dives deeper into themes of resilience and self-worth. Through all the ups and downs, my mission has stayed the same: to tell the truth through music, uplift people who feel unseen, and create space for healing and empowerment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road but it’s been real and it’s been worth it. As an independent and unsigned artist, I wear every hat: singer-songwriter, producer, creative director, music video director, editor, marketer, booking agent, social media manager—you name it. The business side is often the hardest part for me. Creating music is my passion, but turning it into something sustainable and beautiful takes constant hustle and sacrifice.
I’ll be transparent, there have been plenty of challenges. There were times I had to juggle multiple side gigs or work a full-time 8–5 job for a long stretch just to fund my music, tours, or even cover basic living expenses, all while trying to keep my creative momentum going. It’s a grind. There’s no label machine behind me, every stream, every ticket sold, every opportunity has been built from the ground up. And there’s no angel investors involved either haha I wish I had some though!
There are definitely moments of doubt and burnout, but I’ve learned to keep pushing through. My faith grounds me, and my community reminds me why I started. At the end of the day, the struggle makes the wins even more meaningful. I’ve learned how to bet on myself, stay resourceful, and move with purpose even when the path isn’t always clear.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m ZØYA, an indie singer-songwriter and musician, and I tell stories through music. My sound blends indie, alternative pop, soul, and electropop influences, all rooted in personal experience and storytelling, but I’d like to think I don’t fit neatly into any single genre. Eclectic and edgy to the core, but indie pop is my home base…think of it as my musical comfort zone, haha. For me, it’s all about connecting with the audience and helping people through my music.
What I’m most proud of is building my career from the ground up, writing and co-producing my own music, managing every aspect of my art independently, and reaching fans across the U.S., U.K., and beyond without the backing of a major label. I’ve launched two independent tours with sold-out shows in cities like London, New York, Los Angeles, and my hometown Columbus, and had the incredible opportunity to play major festivals alongside acts like DNCE and Third Eye Blind. My breakout single “So Far Away” went viral on TikTok and opened doors for exciting collaborations with brands like Dove, Benefit Cosmetics, Jay Shetty, Target, and placements on radio stations and retail stores globally, which was a huge milestone.
What truly sets me apart is my authenticity and unwavering dedication. I give my whole self to my music and live performances, sharing stories of struggle, faith, and resilience with raw honesty that could resonate deeply with others. I’m not just here to entertain or make music for the numbers; I want to create something meaningful that truly connects with and inspires listeners.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin has been incredibly inspiring, it really helped me understand the deeper process behind making art and staying true to myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://zoyanaumchik.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/zoyanaumchik
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/zoyanaumchik
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zoechka
