We had the good fortune of connecting with Zach Gilliam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zach, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After spending several years immersed in the luxury entertainment industry, I saw an opportunity to create something truly meaningful—not just for myself, but for the incredible musicians I’ve had the privilege of working with here in DFW. That’s how Collective Entertainment was born. I’ve always been blessed to be surrounded by some of the most talented musicians in the area, and my vision for Collective was to create a platform that empowers them. It’s a musician-owned, musician-led initiative, built on the foundation of a strong, positive culture.

In this industry, people want to work with others who value them as individuals, not just as performers or vendors. They want to feel respected and supported, which is something that can often get lost in the corporate structure of traditional event entertainment. Collective was created to change that. My goal is simple: to cut out the corporate middleman and offer brides, planners, and event organizers direct access to a network of world-class musicians—people who are not just talented, but passionate about their craft and committed to making every event unforgettable.

What we’re building is more than just a business. It’s a community—a collective of musicians who support each other and share a common vision of creating high-quality, memorable experiences. I am incredibly humbled by the support of my friends, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together as we grow this movement and elevate the music scene in DFW and beyond.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For the past four years, in addition to running Collective Entertainment, I’ve been fortunate to own and operate my own private guitar lesson business. While I initially taught for various schools and academies, I eventually decided to strike out on my own—and I can honestly say it’s been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.

My lessons are designed for students of all ages and skill levels, from hobbyists picking up a guitar for the first time to seasoned musicians looking to refine their craft. What truly sets my approach apart is that every lesson is tailored to what excites and inspires the individual student. Whether it’s foundational concepts like music theory, rhythm, ear training, or soloing, or more advanced topics like improvisation and music production, the sky’s the limit in terms of what we can explore together.

I believe that learning should be as engaging as it is educational, and I’m dedicated to creating a fun, supportive environment where students can discover new skills, build confidence, and push past their creative boundaries. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the moment when a student realizes just how much they’re capable of, both on the guitar and in their musical journey as a whole. Every lesson is a chance to inspire, and I’m proud to be a part of each student’s growth and success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh gosh haha so many places come to mind but having grown up in Fort Worth and being a Dallas resident for over ten years I’ll have to settle for the best of both worlds! The museums here are top notch, both the DMA and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History have fond memories with me.

Bishop Arts and Oak Cliff in general is a really fun time. Reveler’s Hall is always having the most killing jazz musicians you’ve ever heard and there’s tons of great places to eat and stroll to!

I also love the downtown Magnolia area of Fort Worth, Heim BBQ and Cherry Coffee are both fun vibes and the whole area always has something to do. The Scat Jazz Lounge near Sundance Square is also iconic!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Chet Stevens is one of my best friends in the world. He’s simultaneously the greatest musician, human, and father that I have ever met, and it’s one of my greatest honors that I get to call him my friend, and work alongside him with Collective as well. He’s seen me in good times and bad, and has never waivered or hesitated to offer any amount of help or service. I’m genuinely inspired by the amount of good and kindness he puts back into the world and it makes me want to do better every day. I truly hope that everyone has a “Chet” in their life, and I’m really grateful that he’s in mine. Chet Stevens is my dude.

Website: collective-entertainment.com zachgilliamguitar.com

Instagram: @zachgilliamguitar @collectiveentertainmentband

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568360529586

Image Credits
Parker Moore, Larry Gee, Jacob Sears

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