Dani Meza went from a life filled with writing, recording, and performing to wondering who he was without any of it.
After an aneurysm and two strokes, Dani spent years feeling isolated from the work that had shaped his identity. He joins Jay Hicks to talk about finding his way back to music through The Crushed Velvets and discovering a different way to create with other people.
Dani describes working with producer Chris Schlarb, opening up a process he once handled largely on his own, and letting musicians bring something he hadn't planned. The conversation explores the pressure to compare yourself with others, the relief of a meaningful exchange, and recording a performance while its imperfections and emotion are still alive.
What We Explore
* Identity when illness interrupts the work you love
* Isolation and returning to a creative life
* The Crushed Velvets and working with Chris Schlarb
* Trusting musicians with room to contribute
* Comparison, appearance, and being seen
* Meaningful conversation, silence, and social awkwardness
* Capturing a moment instead of polishing away its character
About Dani Meza
Dani Meza is a Southern California multi-instrumentalist and the artist behind The Crushed Velvets. His work includes the album I Planted, Apollos Watered, But God Kept Making It Grow, recorded with producer Chris Schlarb at Big Ego Studios in Long Beach.
The Tragedy Academy
Candid conversations exploring the human experience through tragedy and triumph.
Hosted by Jay Hicks.
Be cool. Keep learning. 🌳
