Pakistani musicians get too caught up in what the audience want to hear, says Zoe Viccaji

If you've been missing Zoe Viccaji performing around town, that's because the 'Ho Jao Azad' singer is off getting some me-time in the US.

But this is no regular vacation.

Zoe is currently enrolled in an artist residency program at the House of Songs in Austin, Texas. During the residency, she is collaborating with songwriters from around the world to write new music.

Also read: Zoe Viccaji, Qawalistan represent Pakistan at SXSW festival

"I'm here to develop my songwriting skills some more and work with other musicians," Zoe tells Images. "I'm attending a workshop for 12 days and will soon move on to Arkansas [where House of Songs' other chapter is located]. I'm going to do a couple of shows there too."

Zoe's been enjoying the experience so far because it's allowed her to focus on her signature as a songwriter.

"In Pakistan, we get so caught up in what the audience wants to listen rather than our own creative process. This is a place where you can just create," she says, adding that she's working with House of Songs founder Troy Campbell to bring more songwriters from Pakistan to the program.

There's more on Zoe's US agenda. She will eventually be joined by her sister Rachel Viccaji, with whom she will go on a joint tour soon.

How's that for an eventful October!