We recently caught up with Steve Zing—veteran drummer, bassist, and all-around punk rock legend—to talk about his journey through the music scene, the new Blak29 album, and, yes... pizza.
A Legacy That Spans Generations
Steve’s roots run deep. From starting his first band Morning Noise in high school to joining forces with Glenn Danzig in Samhain and spending 17 years in Danzig, his career is nothing short of iconic.
"We actually reformed Morning Noise a few years ago. After that, I teamed up with Glenn Danzig and we started Samhain. I've been in Danzig ever since."
He now fronts Blak29, a project close to his heart, and just released a new album titled The Waiting through Cleopatra Records.
The Waiting: A Passion Project Years in the Making
The new Blak29 record is their second, following the 2016 debut. Like many musicians, Steve faced pandemic-related delays and the ongoing vinyl production backlog, which pushed the timeline.
"It took longer than we expected. Vinyl is hard to come by these days—there just aren’t many plants left in the U.S. producing it."
Despite those challenges, the new album features powerful collaborations, including Jyrki from The 69 Eyes, Tommy Victor (Danzig, Prong), and Johnny Kelly (Danzig, Type O Negative).
What's in a Name? Blak29 and the Luck of the Roulette Wheel
The band name Blak29 has a personal touch.
“29 is my birthday and I always play Black 29 at the roulette table. Had good luck with it—so I stuck with the name.”
Pizza, Punk, and New Jersey Pride
Steve may no longer live in Lodi, New Jersey—but one thing keeps pulling him back.
"Lodi Pizza. It's the best. I don’t live there anymore, but I’ll drive back just to get a slice."
He shared his love for East Coast pizza (sorry, West Coast), and revealed he’s still deeply connected to the local music scene. Recently, he’s been recording a New Jersey band called Chemical X, whose members are all under 20.
“You feed off that young energy. It’s important to stay connected.”
Early Influences and the Punk Rock Flame
Steve’s passion for music was lit early on by family—and by witnessing The Misfits in action.
“Watching the original Misfits rehearse blew my mind. I knew I had to be part of this.”
Growing up, he was surrounded by the sounds of Elvis, Kiss, and punk rock from the late ‘70s.
“Punk just hit a nerve with me. I never let go.”
Gear Talk: What Powers Steve Zing’s Sound
When it comes to gear, Steve is always evolving. As a studio owner, he’s constantly acquiring new equipment—particularly microphones.
For live performances with Danzig, his go-to setup includes Schecter basses and TAG amplifiers.
“It’s a great combination. I love recording, but performing live is still one of my favorite things.”
Staying True—and Keeping the Humor
When asked if he ever thought about auditioning for Metallica when their bass spot opened, Steve kept it honest.
“They’re a great band, but not really my style. I come from the Dee Dee Ramone school of bass.”
He’s also known for his sense of humor, though he kept it clean this time:
“Just be true to yourself. Keep playing. Don’t stop. And don’t let the bullshit get in your way.”
What’s Next for Blak29?
With The Waiting now out, Steve is assembling a live band and planning to hit the road within the next two months.
“We’re putting the pieces together now. It’s coming together, and we’ll be out there soon.”
Final Thoughts
Whether he’s in the studio, on stage, or grabbing a slice in Lodi, Steve Zing remains one of the most down-to-earth and passionate figures in punk and metal. With decades of music behind him and more ahead, Blak29 is just the latest chapter in a storied career—and we're all here for it.
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
Want more? Follow Blak29 on their Website, Youtube, Bandcamp and catch them when they come to your town.
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