Today we’d like to introduce you to Zach Zurn
Hi Zach, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always wanted to write songs and make records. I started Carpet Booth Studios as a small songwriting and production space in Rochester, MN. At the time, it was just me in a make shift studio, working with various artists. Over time, I started producing larger scale projects, which led to building out my own recording studio. In 2018, I moved into and renovated a larger space, a former church, and officially turned Carpet Booth into a full-service studio. Since then, it’s grown into something way bigger than I originally imagined. We’ve worked with artists from all over, had projects hit gold and platinum milestones, and built a reputation for helping independent musicians make records that kickstart their careers.
I think a big part of how I got here was just saying yes to things, staying curious, and constantly honing my craft. I’m a big believer in making honest, thoughtful music—whether that’s through songwriting, production, or just creating an environment where artists feel comfortable being themselves. And that’s what we try to do at Carpet Booth as a whole team, as well.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but that’s part of the process. Early on, the biggest challenge was just figuring out how to make this a sustainable career. When you’re starting out, you’re taking on whatever work you can, juggling different roles, and learning as you go.
Then, as the studio grew, the challenges shifted. Moving into a bigger space in 2017 was exciting, but it also meant taking on more responsibility—higher overhead, a busier schedule, and making sure we could sustain the growth.
Beyond the business side, I think the biggest struggle has been balancing creative energy with the day-to-day logistics of running a studio. Producing records takes a lot out of you, and when you’re also managing a team, handling bookings, and keeping the lights on, it can be easy to lose sight of why you started in the first place. But I’ve learned to set better boundaries, trust the people around me, and focus on the work that actually fuels me.
The challenges have shaped the way I approach both music and business, and at the end of the day, I get to spend my time making records with people I believe in – that’s a dream.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At the core of what I do, I’m a songwriter, producer, and engineer, but I also see myself as a collaborator – someone who helps artists shape their vision into something tangible. I run Carpet Booth Studios, where we work with artists at all levels, from emerging independent musicians to major-label projects.
I specialize in producing records, working closely with artists to bring out the best in their music. Whether that means refining arrangements, dialing in tones, or just creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves, my goal is always to make records that feel honest and intentional. Sonically, my sounds are all over the place depending on the artist and vision, but I’ve had others point out through lines in my taste and production style.
I’m most proud of the artists I’ve been able to work with and the trust they’ve placed in me. Seeing records go out into the world and actually connect with people is something I’ll never take for granted. We’ve had projects have “industry success” (whatever that means), which is great, but I’m just as proud of the independent records that make a real impact, whether that’s helping an artist take the next step in their career or creating something deeply personal that resonates with listeners.
What sets me a apart is a mix of things. I’m not just here to hit record – I want to be a creative partner in the process. I care about the details, about making sure every song feels intentional, and about building long-term relationships with the artists I work with. At the end of the day, I want people to leave the studio feeling like they made something real – something that actually represents who they are.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’d say that if you’re an artist looking to make music, find people who truly care about your music as much as you do. The right creative environment makes all the difference.
Also, for anyone who’s supported the work I do, whether by making music at Carpet Booth, listening to a record I’ve worked on, or just being part of the larger music community – thank you. This industry is built on relationships, and I’m grateful every day to be surrounded by people who believe in what we’re creating.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.zzurn.com and www.carpetbooth.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/zzurn and www.instagram.com/carpetbooth
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carpetbooth
