The Jay Franze Show: Music - News | Reviews | Interviews

Award-winning musician Lucy Becker joins us to share her captivating journey from a musical family background to becoming one of Kentucky's finest fiddle players. Ever wondered how a musician can gracefully switch between the fiddle and the violin depending on the venue? Lucy reveals her secrets and recounts her experiences playing at both formal events and honky-tonks, highlighting her multi-instrumental talents and the significant influence of her father in shaping her musical path.

Lucy opens up about her unique educational experience at Moorhead University, where she honed her skills in writing charts using the Nashville number system and the importance of ear training in studio settings. They discuss the vital role of mentorship in the music community and the intrinsic duty musicians have to inspire the next generation. The joy of participating in community-driven festivals and the camaraderie among artists is brought to life through Lucy's vivid storytelling, particularly her experiences at intimate festivals like Laurel Cove.

As they delve into the technical aspects of being a musician, Lucy shares her adventures with a historic 136-year-old fiddle and the challenges of maintaining such an instrument. We touch upon the stark contrasts between studio work and live performances, the significance of networking in the music industry, and Lucy's future plans, including exciting collaborations and composing for podcasts. Tune in to hear firsthand from Lucy Becker and get inspired by her passion for music, her insightful experiences, and her aspirations for the future.

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

What if a chance encounter with a determined young paperboy could change the trajectory of your creative journey? Join us as we sit down with John McEuen, the legendary solo artist and founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, to explore the life-altering moments that have shaped his illustrious career. John shares the heartfelt story behind his album "The Newsman," inspired by a young boy with cerebral palsy who redefined John's understanding of hard work and dedication. We also reflect on his enduring friendship with Steve Martin, from their high school shenanigans to their magical performances at Disneyland, highlighting the importance of storytelling in music.

Travel back in time to the iconic recording sessions at Nashville's Woodland studio, where the award-winning "Circle Be Unbroken" album was born. John offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of timeless tracks like "Old Rivers," and delves into the balance of authenticity in country music storytelling. Listen to amusing anecdotes from John's diverse career paths in the entertainment industry, including his collaborations with the Oak Ridge Boys, and discover the camaraderie that fuels the music community.

Finally, we embark on a nostalgic journey through the 70s with lively tales of road life and special moments with John's daughter. Learn about unique recording experiences with a single microphone, and the timeless connection to the Everly Brothers' legacy through "My Favorite Dream." John also recounts whimsical stories from his autobiography "The Life I've Picked," shedding light on the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in the music industry. This episode is packed with humor, inspiration, and a treasure trove of musical memories you won't want to miss!

Episode Links

• John McEuen: https://johnmceuen.net/

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• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

Unlock the secrets of the entertainment industry with Josh Lastine, managing partner of Lastine Entertainment Law, on The Jay Franze Show. Ever wondered what goes into crafting the perfect contract for TV, film, or even NFTs? Josh breaks it all down, offering an insider's perspective on the complex world of entertainment deals. From his vast experience working with studios, production companies, and individual talents like actors and musicians, Josh provides invaluable insights into the intricacies of transactional law, making this episode a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of entertainment contracts.

Discover the pivotal roles managers play at the onset of an artist's career and the financial stakes involved. Josh delves into the nuances of these relationships, emphasizing trust and clarity, and the challenges surrounding advances and recoupable funds. We also explore the evolving landscape of the industry, examining 360 deals and the strategic moves artists need to make to climb from entry-level gigs to top-tier contracts. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, this episode offers a roadmap to navigating the often-turbulent waters of entertainment contracts.

Concluding with a heartfelt segment, Josh shares personal stories and experiences that highlight the importance of understanding recoupment clauses and managing multiple revenue streams effectively. Keith Sensing joins the conversation, adding depth and perspective, making for a memorable and engaging discussion. Don't miss this chance to gain profound insights from an industry expert, and be sure to check out all the relevant links and details at jayfranze.com/episode84. Tune in next week for another captivating episode of The Jay Franze Show!

Episode Links

• Lastine Entertainment Law: https://lastineentertainmentlaw.com/

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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.

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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.

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• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
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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, Songwriter
• Monty Lane Allen – Player, Artist, Songwriter
• Bob Bullock – Producer/Engineer
• Chris Leuzinger – Musician, Songwriter
• Michael Spriggs – Musician
• Duncan Mullins – Musician
• Catherine Marx – Musician
• Tim Crouch – Musician
• Gwen Sebastian – Artist
• Darrell Cole – Artist, Songwriter
• Jan Buckingham – Songwriter
• Janie West – Song Pitch Mentor
• Mark Beckett – Musician
• Jermaine Mondine – Musician
• Dustin Soper – Marketing, Branding
• Ed Gertler – Digital Distribution
• Kyle Hershman – Engineer
• Chris Latham – Producer, Engineer
• Sam Levine – Musician
• Blair Masters – Musician
• Amanda Raye – Artist
• Minnie Murphy – Artist
• Mark Nicolosi – Videographer
• Gary Graziano – Musician
• Conrad Reeder – Artist, Songwriter
• Jimmy Mattingly - Musician

Friends of the HMB:

• Deborah Allen, Artist
• Benita Hill, Artist
• Robert Bailey, Artist
• Vicki Hampton, Artist
• Larry Chaney, Producer
• Jay Franze, Media Personality

Links

• High Mountain Breezes: https://www.highmountainbreezes.com/

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• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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.

Episode Links

• Chloe Styler: https://www.chloestyler.com/

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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.

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• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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!

Episode Links

• Mike Skill: https://www.mikeskill.com/

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives

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.

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• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
• VR Knives: https://www.facebook.com/VRKnives