Meet Zarah (AKA Zarah Maillard) | Singer-songwriter, Author and TV personality

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zarah (AKA Zarah Maillard) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zarah, what is the most important factor behind your success?
My ability to never give up and persevere throughout my entire journey not just in the industry I am in but in life in general while weathering the storm to finish what I’ve started. And that failure is never an option. The fact that my drive and determination superseded my weaknesses and the passion I have for my work has fueled my success for a long time, especially after encountering such unforeseen circumstances in my life that I could’ve never prepared for. I’ve not only beaten all the odds against me, but to still find the success you set yourself out to do amid an ultimate crisis in your life, is virtually impossible to get through not only to me but for anyone. Because I’ve been involved in the entertainment industry as a singer-songwriter, author, television personality, and producer, my talents and skills are the basis of my marketing and promotion thus, I am the overall brand and my creative work is what drives it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

Thank you. I think what sets my work apart is simply that I am bold yet honest about my creation as a recording artist or an author whether it’s the songs I’ve written or my book as I see it. I think listeners and readers have no doubt, been able to see that. I was heavily influenced by both classic and modern rock genres with an occasional dose of good pop. Legendary icons both in the rock world and Hollywood’s Golden Age era have long fascinated me and my influences reflect the products I create. I also care about the integrity of my work, and I’m not just here for the glamour or the instant gratification. This is why, having both of my singles “What Have We Become?” and Blind Woman” critically acclaimed as soon as they were released was far more significant and of value to me personally, because it doesn’t only validate your work and talent as an artist, which is important to me, without having to conform to anyone’s expectations but above all, no one can take that away from you. That said, there were many proud moments I’ve had in my career, and continuing to do so. I always say, to never take them for granted and that it’s important to acknowledge every mission you’ve accomplished, every dream you’ve achieved and every milestone you’ve crossed, etc. as they are some of the most difficult things to achieve in my industry.

But just like any aspiring musicians or entertainers in LA, I did just about everything from, singing, acting, modeling, auditioning, playing with my band, etc. when I first started until I got my first break opening for the Goo Goo Dolls across the country. Then, I premiered the nationally syndicated music-empowering teen series “B InTune TV” which I hosted, broadcast in 120 million homes and I eventually became the contributing writer of the television series. This set the stage for my writing career that years later, I published my first murder mystery novel “Diamonds are For Cocktails” which was well received and endorsed by Fox News. Shortly thereafter, I also decided to release singles from my upcoming “Blind Woman” album that made it to 166 playlists including the editorial and radio playlists worldwide.

However, I had to work my hardest and pay every due there was in the book. I had to overcome many obstacles along the way such as honing my ability to write as it wasn’t my forté growing up and to become the best that I could and compete as a performer, songwriter, novelist, etc. to find success. I’ve also proven people wrong every step of the way, all because they told me I couldn’t achieve or reach my goals or dreams. I think this is the absolute power of drive and motivation in me if you ask me. But throughout my immense struggles and hardships as well as encountering such unforeseen circumstances in life among others, my favorite lesson is that I’ve been able to come out on the other end of this as the best version of myself. One who is extremely focused and far-driven in life to the point that I now know that nothing can break me after what I went through. That is yet my biggest takeaway and ultimately, a testament to one’s true character. Although I would like to be known as the person who had just been able to get through the near-impossible circumstances in life because of my inner strength, tenacity, perseverance, and determination to not only survive but to thrive in life, I was able to defy all the odds against me. And for that reason, I am beyond humbled and extremely grateful.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Hollywood, of course! The entertainment capital of the world where people come from all over the world to visit and realize their dreams. I think I would start the day by taking them to see the famous Hollywood sign; I shot one of my “B InTune TV” episodes up there and I always thought it was cool then. From there, I would take them to see a concert and hopefully, one of their favorite bands and have a ‘meet and greet’ if possible, at the Hollywood Bowl. Then, we swing over to a few cool outdoor restaurants and bar spots in the neighborhood, and who can forget the movies? I would bring them the next day to the Warner Bros. studio lot and arrange a tour to show where movies are being made. If I can also manage to take them to a red-carpet event of either a movie premiere or a comparable event, I would. Naturally, I wouldn’t forget the famous Malibu Beach to get some of the California sun during the daytime. There’s also one of my favorite iconic places in Beverly Hills. The diamond heiress character Camille Rogers in my book “Diamonds are For Cocktails” loves to go to the Polo Lounge of the Beverly Hills Hotel each time she visits LA after a good shopping trip at the Rodeo Drive shops and driving by the beautiful palm tree-lined streets around the neighborhood. To me, these historical places highlight some of the best spots in LA. I think he or she would enjoy that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

My late husband. And unfortunately, I can only give him a big ‘shout out’ up to heaven as he had already passed. Although, I am certain that if he was alive today, he would’ve been the proudest, considering I found success all on my own, on top of an exceedingly difficult time in my life. He was my teacher and my mentor in so many ways. He played a vital role in guiding me in my career as well as the business world. I’ve gained tremendous knowledge and experience from him, which I will always be grateful for. On the other hand, I also want to recognize the different mentorship programs, initiatives, and individuals out there who have been making a difference in the lives of the younger generations since I’ve been a thought leader for many years who has been involved in the edutainment space of advancing music and arts for youth through various media platforms.

Website: https://www.zarahrocks.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zarahrocks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zarahrocks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thezarahrocks

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thezarahrocks

Other: Zarah on TikTok I https://www.tiktok.com/@thezarahrocks

Image Credits
Photo credit for the #1 (horizontal), #2, #3, #4 & #6 images (named in the photos) – Michael Bezjian Photo credit for the #5 & #7 images (named in the photos) – Courtesy of Black Dog Ent Group