The Jay Franze Show: Your backstage pass to the music industry

Send us a Text Message.What if the roots of your creativity were planted by your grandparents? Join us for a heartwarming episode of The Jay Franze Show as we engage with the wonderfully talented singer-songwriter Kate Stanton. Kate takes us on a journey through her musical beginnings, sharing the invaluable lessons she learned from her grandparents. With her grandfather's gift for playing piano by ear and her grandmother's mesmerizing mezzo-soprano voice, it's no wonder Kate found her calling in music. She provides rich, nostalgic stories of these formative years, offering a glimpse into the familial bonds that have shaped her unique sound.Ever wondered how a song goes from a spark of inspiration to a polished demo? Kate pulls back the curtain on her creative process, detailing her use of digital tools like Logic Pro and the importance of journaling in her songwriting. We dive into the technicalities of music production, from comparing different DAWs to the significance of structure and refinement in her work. Kate’s insights into balancing creative excitement with focused productivity are invaluable for any aspiring musician. She also opens up about how her music aims to provide solace and a sense of belonging, especially to those who feel like misfits.Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and a passion for music is no small feat. Kate shares her experiences and dreams, including her vision for immersive live performances with the help of her visual artist sister. She speaks on the importance of mentorship, both receiving and offering it, and the emotional impact of her music on introverted and sensitive listeners. Throughout the episode, we touch on her song "The Fog," the role of atmosphere in her music, and the universal challenge of overcoming internal resistance. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that showcases not only Kate’s musical talent but also her resilience and commitment to her craft.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What happens when you grow up in a household brimming with musical legends? Discover the captivating history of Don Parker, an outstanding drummer from a renowned Kentucky music family. Don takes us down memory lane, sharing stories from his early years, playing his uncle's drum kit, and absorbing the musical wisdom of icons like Joe Clark and Randy Hayes. We also spotlight his sister Chelsea, a talented fiddle player, and the unique family dynamics that shaped their creative journeys.Ever wondered how a piece of advice could transform your entire approach to an instrument? Don reveals how a simple tip from his stepmother revolutionized his drumming technique and coordination. The episode chronicles his early fascination with drums, the thrill of discovering rock and roll through an unexpected box of CDs, and the formation of his school band. We highlight the significant influence of drumming legends Ringo Starr and John Bonham, and how their unique styles helped mold Don's musicality. Personal anecdotes bring these influences to life, especially the moment Don experienced Bonham's magic through his son, Jason Bonham.From intimate dance halls to electrifying large venues, Don's journey is a testament to musical evolution. Hear about his first professional gig in high school, playing with Avery Glenn Crabtree, and the pivotal moments that catapulted him into the spotlight. Relive the vibrant atmosphere of the Austin City Saloon, where Don's band maintained the energetic pulse of live music. Whether it's opening for big names like Kid Rock and Tracy Bird or navigating the changing tides of the music scene, Don's story is a thrilling exploration of passion, dedication, and the indelible impact of musical heritage. LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What if you discovered that some of the most heartfelt songs come from the most unexpected places? Join us as we uncover the incredible journey of songwriter Bruce Tarletsky and his Nashville supergroup, High Mountain Breezes. Bruce, who took up songwriting later in life, found inspiration in a loyal group of session musicians. With producer Bob Bullock by his side, Bruce created a unique musical space that emphasizes friendship, collaboration, and personal expression. Together, they’ve crafted a legacy that goes far beyond the notes on a page.Ever wondered how a classic like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" could be reimagined to top charts in Europe? Bruce and his team did just that, with Melissa Duvall, Gwen Sebastian, and Heather Beckett bringing a fresh, innovative rendition to life. They dive into the creative process behind this and other hits, revealing how real-life experiences and co-writing shape their music. With insights from Michael Spriggs and contributions from songwriters like Jan Buckingham and Monty Lane Allen, they discuss the profound impact of collaboration on their success.From the grief-stricken "Daddy's Margarita Rose" to the poignant "Stars in Lahaina Tonight," they explore the emotional depth that fuels their music. Hear stories of how personal loss transforms into powerful lyrics and learn timeless advice from legends like John Denver. They wrap up by highlighting the unsung heroes behind the scenes, including Deborah's soulful touch on "Will the Circle Be Unbroken?" and Dustin's marketing prowess. Tune in to discover the heart and soul of High Mountain Breezes and the team that makes it all possible.Contributing HMB Players:Bruce Tarletsky – Founder, SongwriterMonty Lane Allen – Player, Artist, SongwriterBob Bullock – Producer/EngineerChris Leuzinger – Musician, SongwriterMichael Spriggs – MusicianDuncan Mullins – MusicianCatherine Marx – MusicianTim Crouch – MusicianGwen Sebastian – ArtistDarrell Cole – Artist, SongwriterJan Buckingham – SongwriterJanie West – Song Pitch MentorMark Beckett – MusicianJermaine Mondine – MusicianDustin Soper – Marketing, BrandingEd Gertler – Digital DistributionKyle Hershman – EngineerChris Latham – Producer, EngineerSam Levine – MusicianBlair Masters – MusicianAmanda Raye – ArtistMinnie Murphy – ArtistMark Nicolosi – VideographerGary Graziano – MusicianConrad Reeder – Artist, SongwriterJimmy Mattingly - MusicianFriends of the HMB:Deborah Allen, ArtistBenita Hill, ArtistRobert Bailey, ArtistVicki Hampton, ArtistLarry Chaney, ProducerJay Franze, Media PersonalityLinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.comHigh Mountain Breezes: https://www.highmountainbreezes.com/ Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Discover the journey of Chloe Styler, an exceptionally talented country music artist, as she takes us behind the scenes of her dream performance at Nashville's Bluebird Cafe. Chloe reveals the overwhelming sense of accomplishment and the unique atmosphere of the venue, where the attentive audience contributed to an unforgettable night. She shares her initial nerves and the contrasting vibes between Nashville's vibrant music scene and Australia's Gold Coast, providing a fresh perspective on her musical influences and experiences.Chloe Styler opens up about her creative synergy with renowned producer Luke Wooten. Get an insider’s look at their collaborative process at Station West, where they blend country, pop, and rock elements to create Chloe's signature sound. Chloe talks about the thrill of seeing their hard work culminate in the success of their latest track "Read A Room," which is climbing the Australian radio charts. The efficient yet dynamic recording sessions at Station West highlight the dedication and passion driving Chloe’s music career.Jay and Chloe also delve into Chloe's personal stories behind her songs "Call It" and "Little Lady," revealing the vulnerability and excitement that come with releasing deeply personal tracks. Chloe discusses the challenges of being an independent artist—balancing self-management, industry pressures, and personal health. Hear about the indispensable role of technology in her creative workflow, from her iPhone 13 Pro Max to her Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface. Chloe’s candid insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring musicians and a heartfelt narrative for fans.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.comChloe Styler: https://www.chloestyler.com/ Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What ignites a lifelong passion for music? For country music recording artist Kyle Fields, it was a Christmas gift from his grandmother that set him on a remarkable trajectory. This week on the Jay Franze Show, join us as Kyle takes us from his musical roots in Greenup, Kentucky, through high school jam sessions and garage bands, to the culture shock of Nashville in his early 20s. Discover how Kyle evolved from learning guitar chords as a teenager to the unforgettable experience of opening for Kid Rock before 32,000 fans.Kyle opens up about the inspiration behind his first album, sharing candid stories about creating an eclectic mix of songs that explore themes like drinking, breakups, opioid addiction, and heartfelt tributes to Kentucky and Conway Twitty. Learn about the lengthy and sometimes chaotic writing process that spanned both solo and co-writing sessions, and hear why Kyle treasures personal connections in songwriting over Nashville's more structured co-writing schedules. He also highlights the instrumental elements that shape his sound, including the fiddle and steel guitar, and the unique recording process that spans from Jason Hale's Salt Mind Studio in Kentucky to Nashville.Finally, we get an insider's look at the music industry as Kyle recounts his experiences at Farmland Studios and the shifting landscape of Music Row. Hear about the vibrant Broadway scene and the invaluable lessons learned from performing there, as well as the bittersweet moments of missing home. Kyle reflects on the thrill of significant career milestones and heartwarming stories of audience engagement and social media interactions. Plus, he shares a touching encounter with Pam Tillis and pays tribute to his biggest supporter—his mother, his "Unsung Hero." Tune in to celebrate the people and moments that make Kyle's musical journey so special.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What happens when the decline of Detroit's automotive industry fuels a surge in musical creativity? Join us as we sit down with rock and roll legend Mike Skill, founder of The Romantics, who takes us through the gritty yet exhilarating music scene of Detroit in the 70s. From working automotive industry jobs to fund his passion to rehearsing in old storefronts, Mike shares how the communal spirit among musicians and the influence of British rock bands shaped a city resilient in its artistic pursuits.Discover the origins of The Romantics and how they emerged from the punk and new wave scenes of New York, LA, and London. Mike discusses the transition from the era of iconic lead singers to bands creating their own unique sounds and styles. Hear about the band's early performances, their sharp Motown-inspired look, and the challenges they faced while recording their first two albums in a rapidly evolving music landscape. You'll get an insider's view on how the scene influenced their image and the creative processes behind their signature hits.Finally, you'll hear about the hit songs "Talking in Your Sleep" and "What I Like About You," and journey through the relentless push from management to produce new records. Mike recounts the impact of the 1967 Detroit Riots on the local community and the creation of the song "67 Riot," capturing the essence of that era through music. This episode is packed with captivating stories, personal anecdotes, and a vivid portrayal of the music industry's highs and lows. Don't miss this engaging conversation with rock legend Mike Skill on the Jay Franze show!LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.comMike Skill: https://www.mikeskill.com/ Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What if your favorite song could completely change the vibe of an entire room? This episode we take you backstage with country music recording artist Avery Glenn Crabtree, who reveals the secrets behind his powerful performances. From tapping into deep emotions for every song, whether it's sad, sexy, or aggressive, to his preference for deep cuts over popular tracks, you'll get an inside look at what makes Avery an unforgettable frontman. Discover the special camaraderie he shares with his band and learn how his bluegrass background, instilled by his father, shapes his musical journey.Ever wondered how musicians can control and elevate the energy in a honky-tonk setting? Avery shares his firsthand experience on engaging with live audiences, especially by catering to the preferences of women in the crowd, and the art of keeping the vibe high. The discussion goes beyond just setlists and notes the flexibility of seasoned musicians to adapt on-the-fly, ensuring every performance is fresh and memorable. Learn about the evolving live music scene, the decline of house bands, and the strategies musicians use to create an interactive experience that keeps fans coming back.Navigating the intricate relationships within the music industry is no small feat, and Avery opens up about the challenges and triumphs of collaborating with venue owners and promoting shows in a digital age. Hear about his personal struggles with maintaining a social media presence while balancing family life, and the invaluable lessons learned from his musical influences ranging from bluegrass and gospel to Elvis and Motown. This episode also features touching anecdotes that highlight the power of music to move people, including a story about a gospel song that reduced a listener to tears. Tune in for heartfelt stories, industry insights, and an exclusive segment celebrating the unsung heroes who support artists behind the scenes.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how a serendipitous meeting can change the course of a musical career? Join us on The Jay Franze Show as we sit down with country music artist Will Wesley, who takes us on an emotional journey recounting the profound impact his late manager, Brian Abrams, had on his life and career. From their chance encounter at a concert in Florida to their unforgettable ride through the bustling streets of Bangkok, Will shares heartfelt memories that shed light on Brian's unwavering belief in his music, including the prophetic prediction of his song "12 o'clock in Texas."In this episode, we explore the spiritual essence of the blues and its healing power amidst life's adversities. Will recounts his first road tour with blues legend Larry Garner, showcasing his resilience by performing just days after gallbladder surgery. His role as a music director for Grady Champion adds another layer to his fascinating journey, revealing the hardships and triumphs that come with living the blues. We also dive into the creation of "Ready to Ride," highlighting the collaborative process at Roanoke Records and the invaluable contributions of talented musicians like Michael Cleveland.But the episode isn't all about music—it's deeply personal too. Will opens up about the tragic loss of his brother Daniel to a heroin overdose and his close collaborator Kern Pratt to COVID-19. He shares his journey to sobriety and his mission to raise awareness about addiction, underscoring the transformative power of music and faith. We also touch on the importance of authenticity in social media and shed light on Will's future plans, including a European tour and new music releases. Tune in for an episode brimming with heartfelt stories, life-changing experiences, and inspiring insights into the world of country and blues music.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.comWill Wesley: https://www.willwesleymusic.com/ Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Ever felt like giving up was the only option? Join us as Miguel Antonio, the lead singer of Run With It, shares a deeply moving turning point in his life that led him on a decade-long journey of healing. Miguel bravely opens up about his struggles with depression, anxiety, and OCD, and how these battles have infused their music with hope and inspiration. Through powerful storytelling behind their songs, he has struck a chord with audiences, forging connections and fostering empathy.In a candid conversation, Miguel discusses the multifaceted challenges of managing mental health. He sheds light on the importance of structured schedules, recognizing triggers, and the indispensable role of mentors and professional guidance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the significance of personalized treatment plans and the critical support systems that can aid in managing these conditions effectively. The episode also touches on the emotional toll of buried grief and how music has served as a therapeutic outlet for Miguel and his band.The episode concludes with an exploration of the band's creative and collaborative processes. From working with producer Josh Cleave to integrating rap into their pop-rock style, Miguel shares the highs and lows of their musical journey. He recounts the financial struggles, the toll of touring, and the resilience needed to thrive in the music industry. Through stories of collaboration with artists like The Royal Chief and aspirations for future partnerships, listeners will be inspired by Run With It's evolving sound and strategic approach to their career. Tune in for a heartfelt episode teeming with raw emotion, practical advice, and the behind-the-scenes magic of making music that matters.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.When a young musician strums the strings of destiny, a symphony of stories unfolds. Join Jay as he gets an intimate look at Malachi Gagnon's rise from a boy with a Taylor guitar to a country music phenomenon with millions of downloads. In their heart-to-heart, Malachi reminisces about discovering his vocal talent at a family karaoke night and the unwavering support system that fueled his journey from a hobbyist to a Nashville recording artist. His cherished guitar isn't just an instrument; it's a symbol of the connection between him and his father, and a muse for his songwriting craft.Malachi's tale is a melody of strategy and serendipity, his career a dance with adaptability in the ever-changing music industry. They explore the mosaic of moments behind recording in Nashville, the exhilaration of working with legends like the Cooley brothers, and the bold move of releasing singles—a testament to his savvy understanding of modern music distribution. The promise of a steady stream of singles through November and whispers of a larger project on the horizon paint a picture of an artist who's not just riding the waves but making them.But this episode isn't all about chords and choruses; it's a tribute to the deeper tunes of life that resonate within us. Malachi shares his personal crusade for mental health awareness, a mission born from the loss of a friend and the solace he found in faith. Their conversation is a reminder of the gentle power of checking in on those we hold dear, and the importance of compassion in our shared journey through life's crescendos and decrescendos. So, tune in and be moved by the harmonies of Malachi's music and the life stories that give them color.LinksJay Franze: https://JayFranze.com Support the Show.