Memphis has long been known for its legendary sound, from Beale Street blues to Stax soul. But Zoe, performing under the name Avid Violin, is carving her own space within that legacy, blending tradition, innovation, and deep community roots. Her journey reflects the essence of the city: resilient, creative, and grounded in history. As she prepares to release her debut album, DAWN, she shares how her Memphis upbringing shaped her artistry, her approach to music, and her vision for the future.
Redefining Memphis Musical Identity Through Her Own Voice
For Zoe, growing up in Memphis meant inheriting a cultural identity steeped in soulful expression. Yet she resists being confined by outsiders’ assumptions about what her sound should be.
“Outsiders may have an idea of who I am supposed to be and what music I am supposed to perform as a Memphian. But being from a certain place doesn’t mean living under a rock, especially in the Information Age.”
Her compositions reflect that openness, drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres. At the same time, her experiences as a Black woman, deeply connected to the struggles of her family and ancestors, anchor her in the soulful tradition Memphis is known for.
“I take the honor of being a voice for my people, and it is one of the main purposes I use for my music.”
Classical Foundations Shaping a Modern Sound
From her earliest years, Zoe’s education in music was rooted in discipline and history. Her mother, a classically trained pianist, instilled in her the importance of learning the basics like scales, rhythm, harmony, and patterns.
“To change the rules, you have to know the rules.”
That knowledge allowed her, even at age 15, to compose and record her first hip-hop track with her brother.
She still applies that philosophy today:
“Knowing the basics and practicing them consistently will take anyone far; and that discipline divides the advanced from the novices.”
Building Community Through Performance
In high school, Zoe created her own string quartet and began performing across Memphis, a milestone that taught her how important connections are in sustaining a career.
“Talent will take you to a good place, but knowing the right people can be the difference between having to schedule 20 gigs in a month or being able to perform at just a few high-profile events.”
Performing around the community not only expanded her experience but also helped her keep her passion alive.
“Having community as a musician puts experience under your belt, and in return, you become better at your profession.”
Finding Her Voice as Avid Violin
Zoe never imagined she would compose an entire album of her own work. But a turning point came after graduating from college and returning to Memphis full time. Preparing for a local awards show, she decided to perform something original rather than a cover.
“I thought to myself, ‘Why just pick a trending song? How much more impactful would it be if I performed something of my own?’”
That decision led to her first single, “Dawn,” which combined mournful violin tones with tribal and hip-hop beats, drawing from the Negro spirituals and southern roots that shaped her upbringing.
“I believe that having the desire to be a positive example for Memphis and showing those that come after me the abilities they have inside of them inspired me to complete this album."
Blending Genres Without Losing Authenticity
Zoe’s music spans gospel, R&B, pop, country, classical, and beyond. She approaches blending genres by starting with melodies in her head, writing them down, and then reshaping them into something entirely her own.
“The violin is a voice I use to create the top melody. Sometimes I use another violin or viola to harmonize with that top violin—it becomes a strings choir.”
Balancing Artistry, Mentorship, and Community
Today, Zoe performs with the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and teaches private lessons while preparing to direct the orchestra program at the Memphis Performing Arts Academy. Despite her busy schedule, she views music not as a burden but as her calling.
“Music is the essence of my life. When I hear an inspiration, I write it down and save it. I make time in the evenings and weekends to catch up on work and meet with people in my community for rejuvenation.”
DAWN: A New Chapter for Memphis Strings
With her debut album, DAWN, released on June 27, 2025, Zoe hopes to take listeners on a journey through her mind and influences. Each track features original compositions and live string instrumentation, showcasing how the violin can cross boundaries and redefine genres.
“This may not be your typical Memphis music, but that is why I love it. A lot of artists here are like me, showing that all types of music and inspiration come from anywhere.”
She sees DAWN as both a personal milestone and a gift to the city and the world, a testament to her faith, her craft, and the rich musical soil she grew from.
“This is only the beginning. It’s a new way of being a strings artist."
