Today we’d like to introduce you to Zachary Ollila.
Zachary, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started playing guitar when I was five years old after I begged for one for Christmas because I was jealous of my neighbor had one. From there, I was on and off with the instrument for about four years before I started to love the craft. I then started playing drums when I was 10, violin when I was 11, and bass when I was 12. I have since learned how to play 13 other instruments; however, I mainly focus on guitar and singing. I have played guitar for musicians in the Dallas area, also appearing on a handful of studio recorded albums. In doing so, it has allowed me to play at a handful of venues in the historic Deep Ellum area, as well as House of Blues and other various venues. I am self taught on every instrument except the violin.
Great, 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?
Not even close. There have been many nights staying up frustrated because one lick doesn’t sound right or I can’t get the exact tone I’m looking for. However, all of that frustration disappears during the creation of music. The feeling of once you nail the part is indescribable. Being on stage showing the music you’ve made is a feeling that is unachievable by anything else.
Please tell us about your music.
I’ve been playing guitar for other artists in the DFW area since I was 15 years old, both on stage and in the studio. I’m known for playing guitar, primarily in rock and jazz genres of music. My latest project was doing guitar work on my friend Ethan Montano’s new single Idaho, is now out on all major platforms.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory from my childhood was when I was in 5th grade. My elementary school held a talent show every year only for the 5th graders to perform in. Having reached the age to perform, I locked myself in my room and learned ‘Remedy’ by the Black Crowes. I played guitar and sang the song. At the end of the performance, I received a standing ovation from the crowd.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 9013262104
- Email: zachollilamusic@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/ollilaz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zach.ollila
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/zollila
Image Credit:
Chilo Prado, Christopher Ollila, Landry Raymond
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