TRB XXIV Rewind Series - Ep. 2 Zac Barnett/American Authors
/🚢 LIVE with Zac at Bar City (a.k.a. Magnums) aboard the Norwegian Gem during The Rock Boat XXIV! 🚢
The BoatCast Boys, bring back a man who is no stranger to the Podcast! Zac Barnett, frontman of American Authors, gives us an inside look at his Rock Boat experience, the band’s creative process, and the ever-changing music industry. From behind-the-scenes set planning to hilarious tour stories and wardrobe malfunctions, Zac shares what it’s like to be part of one of the most beloved Rock Boat acts. Whether he’s closing down the hot tub, dropping exclusive new music, or reminiscing about past Rock Boat performances, his passion for this floating music festival is undeniable.
As a Rock Boat veteran, Zac reflects on how each year brings a unique experience, not just for the band but for the fans who return year after year. He gives insight into how American Authors prepare for each show, ensuring that every setlist is a fresh and exciting experience. From their loose party-style atrium set to the full-album theater experience, the band constantly strives to bring something new to the Rock Boat stage.
Beyond the performances, Zac discusses how American Authors have adapted to the modern music industry, particularly the impact of social media and streaming platforms. He shares how the band’s new strategy of releasing one song per month indefinitely has allowed them to stay relevant in an evolving industry while keeping fans engaged with a constant flow of new music. He also teases their upcoming album, Call Your Father, and reveals that new, unreleased songs were played in the theater before their set—giving fans on board a first listen before anyone else.
But it’s not all about music—Zac opens up about the importance of community, both within the Rock Boat family and in the broader world. He discusses the band’s involvement in raising awareness for natural disasters, such as the California wildfires, and how music can serve as a powerful tool for bringing people together in difficult times.
From laugh-out-loud moments to genuine behind-the-scenes insight, this episode is a must-listen for American Authors fans, Rock Boat regulars, and anyone who loves live music and festival culture. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with one of Rock Boat’s most dynamic and beloved artists!
🎵 Episode Chapters:
⏳ 00:00 – Intro: Welcome aboard The BoatCast!
🎤 03:15 – Rock Boat to Rock Boat: Zac’s love for the festival
🎸 07:40 – Prepping for Rock Boat: How American Authors build their setlists
🚢 12:30 – Rock Boat Performances: Theater set vs. Pool deck vs. Atrium
🎶 18:50 – Social Media & The Music Industry: How the band stays relevant
🔥 25:20 – New Album Teasers: Call Your Father & the future of American Authors
😂 31:10 – Tour Stories & Wardrobe Malfunctions: What really happened on stage
🤝 38:00 – Community & Giving Back: The band’s work with disaster relief
💬 44:30 – Fan Q&A: Zac answers audience questions
🎧 50:00 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find American Authors
🎸 Connect with American Authors:
🌎 Website: weareamericanauthors.com
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/americanauthors
🐦 Twitter/X: twitter.com/aauthorsmusic
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/americanauthors
🎵 Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/0MlOPi3zIDMVrfA9R04Fe3
🎥 YouTube: youtube.com/c/AmericanAuthors
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The BoatCast would like to thank our sponsors, https://www.TheFITCollective.com for supporting us in promoting Rock Boat Artists. If you want to get the word out about these artists and are interested in sponsoring The Boatcast, please email Chris at: ChristopherRhoad@gmail.com.