We recently connected with Zachary Michael and have shared our conversation below.

Zachary, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

It all started with a feeling—a quiet but persistent notion that after a decade in the music industry as a producer, songwriter, and sync composer, my career was ready for its next chapter. I’d spent years creating new music both for myself and for other artists and learning the music business. But despite receiving numerous publishing offers, something always felt off. These deals often lacked the transparency and education I knew artists needed to feel empowered. That gap, that missing piece, stayed with me.

Then one day, it clicked.

What if I could create something better? What if I could take the risks others weren’t willing to take and build a publishing company that put the musician first? The idea of Elizabeth Music Group was born not as a mere business venture but as a mission—a promise to myself to lead with integrity, education, and creativity.

The first step was diving deep into research. For weeks, I devoured information, studied trends, and reached out to anyone and everyone in the publishing world who would lend me their time. I asked detailed questions, played through hypotheticals, and absorbed the wisdom of my peers—especially those I respected and admired. I inquired about potential partnerships, brainstormed structures, and evaluated the landscape. The learning curve was steep, but every conversation reinforced my belief that Elizabeth Music Group could fill a crucial void.

Funding the company entirely on my own was a monumental risk, but it also gave me the freedom to build it my way—without compromise. With resources secured, I assembled a small, passionate team. Every member believed in the mission: to elevate musicians through creative-first publishing deals, backed by transparency and education. Together, we began the foundational work of signing new talent and bringing the vision of EMG to life.

Our mission at Elizabeth Music Group is clear: to empower musicians by respecting their artistry and equipping them with the tools to thrive. Every deal we make is guided by a commitment to fairness, clarity, and creativity. By providing transparent publishing administration and label services, we help artists navigate the complexities of their careers with confidence. But more than that, we ensure they understand every step of the process, building a foundation of trust that empowers them for the long haul.

Founding Elizabeth Music Group has been one of the most challenging and rewarding decisions of my life. Every risk I’ve taken, every late night spent building this company, has been driven by the belief that artists deserve better. Elizabeth Music Group is more than a company—it’s a movement to redefine what publishing can and should be for musicians everywhere. And as I reflect on this journey from idea to execution, I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the past that prepared me, for the present that challenges me, and for the future we’re building.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Zachary Michael, and I’ve been immersed in the music business for over a decade, building a career as a producer, songwriter, and sync composer. Now, as the founder of Elizabeth Music Group, I’ve transitioned into a role where I can uplift and empower fellow musicians through innovative publishing services.

Elizabeth Music Group is dedicated to solving some of the most significant challenges musicians face in managing their global publishing royalties. Collecting worldwide revenue is a complex process—it requires registering songs with over 60 pay sources, handling disputes, and keeping accurate accounting. Many artists feel overwhelmed by this, and that’s where we come in.

At Elizabeth Music Group, we not only handle royalty collection but also provide education and creative opportunities. We connect our roster of talented musicians to collaborate with one another, pitch their music for sync licensing to major companies, and work alongside major labels and artists on their albums. Sync licensing is a highly lucrative avenue, offering opportunities to feature your music in TV shows, films, video games, and advertisements.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creative-first deals that prioritize education and transparency. Our philosophy is simple: when musicians are informed and supported, their creativity thrives. That’s why we go beyond traditional publishing services to ensure our clients understand the intricacies of their rights and revenues while providing opportunities that nurture their artistry.

What I’m most proud of is being able to give back to the creative community that shaped me. I know firsthand how challenging it is to build a career in music, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to help others achieve their dreams.

The main thing I want people to know about Elizabeth Music Group is that we are here to inspire and lead the way toward a brighter future for the publishing industry—one built by creatives, for creatives. Our mission is to empower artists and writers, ensuring their talents are respected, their voices heard, and their visions realized. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in music publishing.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

What I believe truly helped me build my reputation in the music business is the emphasis I’ve placed on authentic, long-term relationships. Over the past decade, I’ve focused on connecting with people organically, seeing them as individuals with unique stories and perspectives rather than opportunities.

In an industry where many approach relationships with a transactional mindset, I’ve chosen to prioritize genuine connections. Instead of rushing into collaborations or business dealings, I take the time to understand the person, their journey, and their vision. If working together makes sense, it happens naturally.

What’s also been key is consistently doing fair, transparent business and offering value without expecting anything in return. I believe in showing up for others and building trust through action. Over time, this approach has cultivated a reputation I’m proud of—one based on integrity, mutual respect, and a commitment to doing right by those I work with.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

I keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty by maintaining open and accessible communication channels with all musicians signed to Elizabeth Music Group. Each artist can reach me and my team through their preferred method, whether that’s a phone call, group chat, text, social media, or email. Additionally, we’ve created a dedicated Discord server where our signed musicians can stay connected, exchange ideas, and gain access to new creative opportunities and educational resources in real time.

When it comes to fostering brand loyalty, I focus on delivering genuine value rather than trying to force loyalty. By prioritizing consistent communication, sharing advice and insights when desired, and providing countless opportunities for our roster to grow and advance their careers, loyalty develops naturally. My goal is to create an environment where musicians feel supported, heard, and empowered to succeed. This organic approach builds trust and long-term connections that go beyond traditional business relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elizabethrecords.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thezachmichael/
• Twitter: https://x.com/TheZachMichael
• Other: Elizabeth Music Group Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elizabethmusicgroup/