Sean McConnell is a wonderfully gifted artist. His songs have been sung by artists like Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Christina Aguilera, Buddy Miller, Rascal Flatts, Plain White T's, Brad Paisley, and others. Behind the songs recorded by these artists, is an songcrafter who is deeply thoughtful and introspective. Combined with his talents, these traits create songs that resonate to the heart and soul, and bring about great interviews. 

Sean and I discuss his brilliant new album, "Skin," and so much more. If you are a fan of Sean's music, I believe you will love this interview. If you don't know Sean's music, my guess is that you will once you've listened to this. 

To get Sean's tour dates, buy merch, get news updates, click here: https://www.seanmcconnell.com/

I hope you enjoy this conversation. If you do, please consider helping me by giving a rating or kind review, and sharing this episode with your friends or on your socials. I do not make money podcasting, nor is it my goal. My purpose is to capture and share the stories of artists. Your ratings, reviews, and shares help that dream become a reality. 

Thank you from my heart for listening. 

Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

In this second and final segment of my interview with White Heart vocalist, Rick, Ric, Rikk, Riq, Ricke, Rhic, Rikcq, Ricque Florian we dig into how the band would painstakingly polish their songs before heading to the studio, and the time Rick didn't want to sing a line from a huge White Heart song. Rick and I talked about how he went from driving a truck for a Michael W. Smith tour to trying out for the band, aided by his friendship with his college buddy, Geoff Moore. We covered other topics and by playing a game to test Rick's recall of White Heart lyrics.

Rick was a wonderful and humble guest that is so easy to talk to. I could not be more grateful for the impact of White Heart's music in my life. The band set a high bar musically which I love, but it's the lyrics that touched my heart- so talking to Rick was particularly meaningful to me. 

I hope you enjoy this conversation. If you do, please consider helping me by giving a rating or kind review, and sharing this episode with your friends or on your socials. I do not make money podcasting, nor is it my goal. My purpose is to capture and share the stories of artists. Your ratings, reviews, and shares help that dream become a reality. 

Thank you from my heart for listening. 

Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/journeytothestagepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

I began listening to White Heart in about 1986, nearly 40 years ago. There is much to love about them. As a fan of well written songs, White Heart has always been in the upper echelon for me. Add top notch musicianship, arranging and production, lyrics that truly touched my soul—add the voice of my guest today, and it’s easy to see why this band meant and means so much to me and so many others.

Rick Florian was the lead vocalist for White Heart for 12 years, 8 albums, helped the band reach their pinnacle with his powerful, clean and sincere voice, HIGH energy performance and a heart that loves his Savior.

This interview, in some ways, did not go as planned- and I LOVE it. With White Heart keyboardist and vocalist, Mark Gersmehl (or Gersh as his friends call him) making a surprise appearance, I just let the conversation run its course.

This was a fun and insightful conversation, that I split into 2 parts. You won’t want to miss part 2 where we play a game to see how well Rick can remember White Heart song lyrics. Part 2 will be released 2 weeks after part 1.

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With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

For decades Fernando Ortega has written and recorded songs and hymns that are filled with profound spiritual truths, great doctrine, that are arranged in beauty and sung with authenticity. I had the pleasure of chatting with Fernando on a Spring afternoon to talk about his latest EP, "For All the Saints," which is a collection of wonderful songs that are congregational in composition and arrangement. 

What I most loved about my time in conversation with Fernando, was getting to know him. I found Fernando to be genuine and open. We discuss his upbringing and how the experiences of his childhood have become colors he can paint with today in his music, his journey as a musician, songwriter and singer, and so much more. If you love Fernando's music, I believe you will enjoy this meaningful conversation. 

Please share this episode with the Fernando Ortega music lover in your life! A special thank you to Fernando for his time and authenticity. 

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

"How Can I Keep From Singing" written by Robert Lowry (music) and Pauline T (lyrics). Arranged and performed by Fernando Ortega. Recording used by exclusive permission. 

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

Pure Prairie League, along with bands like The Eagles, helped create the Country/Rock blend that launched in the early 1970s. Along with the genre defining hit, "Aimee," Pure Prairie League has cemented its legacy by creating a catalogue of music that has stood the test of time and has built an immensely loyal fan base. PPL is back with its first new album in 20 years with "Back on Track," and it is one heck of an album. 

It was a real pleasure to sit down with Pure Prairie League's, Mike Reilly, to talk about the new album, the bands legacy, and the lasting power of a song about a girl named Aimee. If you're a fan of PPL, you will love the new album and this conversation.

To get the latest news, check tour dates, and buy the new album, go to https://pureprairieleague.com/

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

"Picture Perfect Life" written Jeff Zona. Used by exclusive permission. 

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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Twitter/X: https://x.com/Journey2Stage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

Jesse Terry is one of those artists that stopped me in my tracks. From the first time I played his new album, "Arcadia," I knew I had stumbled upon a very special artist. Jesse's songwriting is simply incredible- both melodically and lyrically. Add to those things a voice that is beautiful, and you have truly found something special.

It was a pleasure to chat one lovely afternoon with Jesse as we talked about his journey as an artist and family man. During our chat we play a wonderful song from "Arcadia" titled "Burn the Boats." It is a standout song on an album full of standouts. 

You can listen to "Arcadia" on all streaming platforms.

To access Jesse's store, get updates and tour dates, visit https://www.jesseterrymusic.com/

Please consider supporting Jesse on Patreon for as little as $5 a month and getting some GREAT perks at https://www.patreon.com/jesseterry

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

"Burn the Boats" written Jesse Terry. Used by exclusive permission. 

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

Twitter/X: https://x.com/Journey2Stage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

There are interviews, and there are interviews. This is a conversation that I will never forget. In this concluding portion of my chat with Russ Taff, we pick up where we left off in part one, where I asked Russ if his 1987 self-titled album was a cry for help. 

These two episodes with Russ will go down as one of the most impactful interviews I've ever done. I am thankful for Russ' authenticity and fearlessness. It is a brave man who can open himself up to the world, but Russ' desire to help others outstrips his desire for self-protection and self-preservation. 

Russ' incredible new album, "Cover Story," is out NOW! It is available on all the streaming services. To support great artists like Russ, you can purchase a download, CD or vinyl (coming soon!) at www.russtaff.com.

If you enjoyed my conversation with Russ Taff, please share it with others who might enjoy it, leave a rating or review, and like or follow wherever you're catching this so you don't miss future releases. Check out my growing list of past interviews and let me know if you have a favorite.

Thank you for listening!!

Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/journeytothestagepodcast/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

No one in the world has a voice like Russ Taff. With 6 Grammys to his name and more Dove Awards than one could count, Russ has nothing left to prove in the world of music. With all of that success to stand on, Russ has recorded an album that is as real as it gets. "Cover Story" is raw, beautiful and powerful. 

Russ and I chatted for almost two hours late Fall 2024 as he began the final stages of producing his new album. What transpired was a conversation that was brutally honest, filled with stories of Russ' past, stories that helped shape the man who Russ is today. In this first of two segments of our conversation, we begin by talking about the new album, which get released on January 31, 2025! Russ and I discuss the brutal childhood he had and the alcoholism he would later battle as an adult.

This episode, parts 1 and 2, are filled with hope and redemption. The transparency Russ exhibits has helped countless others have the boldness and freedom they needed in order to open up about their own stories.

A big thank you to Russ. We shed some tears together, and laughed together in this episode. Part 2 will be released on Monday February 3, 2025. 

Buy a download of "Cover Story" or on vinyl at www.RussTaff.com

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

Twitter/X: https://x.com/Journey2Stage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

Burn the Jukebox have been burning up the internet for the last few years and have made a name for themselves by playing some of the best Rock and Pop songs of the past few decades. This group of highschoolers caught the attention of music lovers by rocking songs from everyone from Hendrix, to Journey to Lady Gaga. As now-seasoned musicians and artists, Burn the Jukebox is writing their own powerhouse and catchy songs that prove they are much more than a "cover band."

In this fun interview, I sat down with the band's bassist and co-vocalist, Virginia Franks, and chat about the band's journey so far. As the youngest guest I've interviewed (age 17), Virginia is the youthful end of the female bass players I've had, with the oldest guest I've had, the Queen of Bass herself, Carol Kaye (age 87 when I interviewed her). 

This is a band who has found great success..... and they're just getting started!

Find tour dates and by some merch here: https://burnthejukebox.com/

Find them on Tik Tok: https://tiktok.com/@burnthejukebox

Follow BTJ on Insta: https://instagram.com/burnthejukebox

Like them on FaceBook: https://facebook.com/burnthejukeboxband

See their vids on YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/burnthejukebox

Support the band on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BurntheJukebox

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

"Reflection (In Your Eyes)" written and performed by Burn the Jukebox. Used by exclusive permission. 

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/journeytothestagepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

Twitter/X: https://x.com/Journey2Stage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo

I had the pleasure of sitting with Phil Keaggy and Malcolm Guite and discuss their brand new collaborative album, Songs and Sonnets. This special album is filled with the masterful poetry of Malcolm Guite, whose recitations add life to the the words he penned. The beautiful music Phil Keaggy created for each poem doesn't act as a mere backdrop for the poem, but it helps to create the atmosphere for the spoken words and enhances the listener's experience. 

Songs and Sonnets is precisely the album the busy world needs. It's the album the racing soul and overextended man and woman needs. This collection of words and music is the pause button we all need. Malcolm, Phil and I discuss the backstory of several pieces, how the project came together, and we chat about friendship, art, Christ, and so much more. 

In order to get the FULL package, which includes several bonus tracks, purchase the album here: https://philkeaggyfriends.bandcamp.com/album/strings-sonnets

A very special thanks to Phil and Malcolm, two of the most delightful men I've met as a podcaster. Thanks to Tom Gulotta for joining us and for putting together such a beautiful package. Subscribe where you're listening and if you enjoyed tis episode, share it with your friends. Thanks you so much. 

With over 3 million podcasts in existence, being an independent podcaster is VERY challenging, especially for a non-celebrity like me. If you would like to support Journey to the Stage with Bryan Frazier, please consider supporting on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneytotheStage

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Journey to the Stage Website: https://www.journeytothestage.com/ 

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/journeytothestagepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneyToTheStagePodcast 

Twitter/X: https://x.com/Journey2Stage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAttWGi_zfuuqlYY8qRzABw

Omnis Gloria Christo