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

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.

Episode Links

• Will Wesley: https://www.willwesleymusic.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

As Jay sits down with the effervescent Mackenzie Phipps, he couldn't help but be struck by her pure, unadulterated passion for music that's as clear as the Bluefield skies she hails from. Their conversation takes you on a journey from a Virginia church choir to the heart of Nashville's music scene, where Mackenzie shares candid stories about her family's unwavering support and the emotional depth behind her song "18 Wheels." With her feet firmly planted in her roots and eyes set on the stars, she embodies the spirit of country music in its truest form.

Step into the vibrant world of Nashville recording studios, where Mackenzie opens up about the alchemy of creating music that resonates with the soul. She pulls back the curtain on the session musicians' wizardry and the charting system that's the lifeblood of the industry's recording process. Whether she's mastering guitar licks or navigating the illustrious corridors of Blackbird Studio, Mackenzie's tales of artistic growth amidst Nashville's finest are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The episode crescendos as they discuss the evolving tapestry of country music, from the legends who paved the way to the fresh faces stirring the pot of creativity. Mackenzie's anecdotes about potential collaborations and the way certain songs stir her soul stand as a testament to her dedication to the craft. Her musical journey, woven with personal insights and dreams of collaborations, is a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling through song. Join Jay for this memorable chat with Mackenzie Phipps as they celebrate the heartbeat of country music and the artists who keep its legacy alive.

Episode Links

• Makenzie Phipps: https://www.makenziephipps.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Step behind the curtain with Jay as he sits down with the legendary William Lee Golden of the Oak Ridge Boys. In an intimate exchange, William shares his rich history with the band, encompassing the familial bonds among members and the recent transition with the addition of Ben Isaacs. But perhaps what's most striking is how he turned the silence of the pandemic into a symphony of creativity, collaborating with his family band, The Goldens, to produce new music. They also peel back the layers of William's personal life, revealing his hobbies and the resilience that allows him to keep negativity at bay.

As they traverse the changing landscapes of music alongside William, they find themselves immersed in the harmonious blend of gospel and country, with nods to rock legends that shaped the soundtracks of our lives. The conversation shifts to the nitty-gritty of the music business, where artists like William confront the challenges of evolving record labels and the digital revolution's impact on album production. It's a candid look at the necessity for risk-taking and the pursuit of artistry in an industry that is as relentless as it is rewarding.

In the final notes of their journey, they celebrate the milestones and the unsung heroes who've made indelible marks on William's career. The stories are vibrant, from singing hits like "Thank God for Kids" to showcasing the talents of his grandchildren who are carving their own paths in the world of music. And who knew a koala bear could symbolize such enduring bonds? We wrap up with a reflection on the legacies left through melodies and the timeless connections that bind us all, on and off the stage. Join Jay for this heartwarming exploration into the life of an icon and the music that tells his story.

Links

• The Oak Ridge Boys: https://oakridgeboys.com/
• William Lee Golden and The Goldens: https://williamleegoldenandthegoldens.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Ever wonder how a rising country star finds his voice in the midst of a global pandemic? Matt Oakley joins Jay Franze, to share his tale of musical evolution, from the spark of creation during quarantine to harnessing the power of TikTok for skyrocketing fame. We reminisce about the soul-stirring narratives that thread through his songs, a testament to legends like Rascal Flatts, and the unexpected journey that turned isolation into a launching pad for his country music career.

Strap in for a thorough breakdown of musical alchemy, where Matt spills the secrets of his fruitful collaborations with Nashville's finest, from the seasoned pros to the young guns adding a fresh beat to the scene. Their chat navigates through the technical tango of production with industry mavens, highlighting the strategic release of singles and Matt's anticipation for his Southeast tour. Candid revelations about embracing his unique sound underscore his emergence as a formidable force in the country music landscape.

As they round off the episode, Matt and Jay tackle the delicate interplay between an artist's personal touch and the influential might of social media. Witness how authenticity defines Matt's rise, from the shared moments of vulnerability in songwriting to the strategic finesse of marketing teams. This isn't just a peek behind the curtain; it's a deep-dive into the heart of what it takes to carve out a legacy in the beats of country music, one authentic chord at a time. Join in for a session that's as much about the rhythm of life as it is about the twang of a guitar.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Robert Schreiner: Critically Acclaimed Author (The Wolves and the Greyhounds)

From the covert world of international espionage to the imaginative realms of historical fiction, Jay's friend and guest, former CIA agent turned author Robert Schreiner, reveals the serendipitous sparks that ignited his novel "The Wolves and the Greyhounds." Their heart-to-heart uncovers Bob's three-year odyssey into the depths of the Battle of Coronel, illustrating his transformation of a WWI event into a mesmerizing story. As they traverse Bob's unique path, they uncover how the echoes of his children's history projects and a fervent love for military lore have woven into the fabric of his writing.

The maze that is the publishing industry is no stranger to the tenacious. Bob guides us through the rollercoaster of pursuing traditional publication—where the thrills of positive feedback meet the chills of rejection letters. Their conversation touches on the perseverance of authors and the nuanced challenges they face, especially in marketing a niche like WWI naval combat. However, their narrative doesn't end there. Bob and Jay also chart the empowering journey of self-publishing, where the creative control and success stories are reshaping the dreams of modern writers.

In the final act, they ponder the evolution of storytelling in their digital landscape, discussing the art of captivating book covers and the finesse required for a potent blurb. They flirt with the future, considering the thrill of adapting literature for the screen or interactive media. As they close, Bob shares a heartfelt nod to the silent heroes behind every creative venture, with a special mention of his wife Diane's steadfast support. Join us on The Jay Franze Show for a dialogue that bridges the clandestine corridors of intelligence with the boundless possibilities of fiction.

Episode Links

• Robert Schreiner: https://www.robertschreiner.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Join Jay Franze, as he pulls back the curtain on the world of live music with the incredible fiddler and vocalist Chelsea Parker, whose passion for performance is as captivating as her command of the strings. Feel the adrenaline of stepping on stage at Rock The Country, where Chelsea and her 'band fam' electrify 32,000 fans, and get an insider's look at the rituals that ground her amidst the chaos. From the synergy of harmonizing vocals while fiddling to the backstage intricacies that few witness, this episode is a symphony of stories for the sound-obsessed and the casually curious alike.

Imagine the rush of opening for a music legend like Phil Vassar or the intricate dance of adapting your art to fit the mood of various venues, from the cozy corners of theaters to the vast embrace of open-air festivals. Chelsea's journey through the soundscape of collaboration reveals how connections with fellow musicians like Kyle Fields fuel her creative fire and transform each performance into something uniquely memorable. Whether it's fitting the fiddle into unconventional songs or navigating the waters of musical partnerships, Chelsea's insights resonate with the rhythm of an artist truly in tune with her craft.

As they strum through the chords of Chelsea's story, the conversation meanders from the resonance of family-influenced songwriting to the dynamic between formal education and the relentless pursuit of learning in the arts. Diving into the essence of Chelsea's approach to lyrics and melody, Jay uncovers the heartbeat of her original music and the role lifelong learning plays in refining one's artistry. For the dreamers who yearn for the life of a musician or those who simply savor the sweet sounds of dedication, this episode is a serenade to the undying spirit of musical exploration.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Step into the kaleidoscopic world of music with Keldamuzik, hip-hop artist turned EDM dynamo, as she shares her journey on shifting soundscapes in our latest podcast episode. The conversation with Kelda is an illuminating ride through the realms of creativity, as she spills the secrets behind her artistic evolution and the deep influences that propel her forward. From her homage to Michael Jackson to the fluidity of blending rap with spoken word, Kelda's narrative is a testament to the power of genre fusion and its impact on the creative soul.

Join us in the intimate corners of the recording studio, where Kelda opens up about the rituals and mindset that guide her in laying down tracks with precision and passion. She swears by the calming effects of kava tea—a little-known studio companion—and the spontaneity of perfecting ad-libs in a single take. As we peek behind the curtain, Kelda gives us a front-row seat to the artist-engineer synergy, the stringent mix and mastering process, and how she ensures her music emerges with a professional sheen, ready to hit the airwaves.

We round out our session with a dive into the maze of social media marketing and personal branding, where Kelda leads by example with her hands-on approach to fan interactions. From acknowledging birthday wishes to handling the whirlwind of messages, her online presence is as dynamic as her music. We even explore her latest entrepreneurial leap into fashion, launching her exclusive beret line, and her adventures on the set of "The Hodges." Kelda's story is a mosaic of creativity, with each tile—a song, a fashion statement, an on-screen role—revealing a larger portrait of an artist in constant motion.

Episode Links

• Keldamuzik: https://keldamuzik.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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

Step behind the curtain of the live music scene with Jay Franze and the legendary sound mixer Bruce Reiter from Five Finger Death Punch. In a rare conversation, Bruce unveils his sonic journey, detailing his rise from modest beginnings to orchestrating the thunderous soundscapes for arena rock giants. He credits early mentors like Dave Natale for honing his craft, and offers an intimate look at the dynamics within the band, from Zoltan Bathory's strategic vision to Ivan Moody's heartfelt fan connections. It's a foray into the often-unseen emotional labor of sound engineering, revealing how Bruce's meticulous touch amplifies the raw exchange between artists and audiences.

When the stage lights blaze and the crowd roars, the unsung heroes at the sound console ensure every chord strikes true. This episode pulls back the festival curtain, highlighting the symphony of challenges and triumphs that sound engineers like Bruce Reitr face. From the seamless orchestration of the setup to the magic of virtual soundchecks, step into the collaborative world that transforms musical chaos into harmony. Learn how the subtlest variables, such as audience attire or the warmth they radiate, can sway the soundscape. Bruce's narrative underscores the vital, yet often invisible, camaraderie among the touring crew, who together, bring the concert experience to life night after night.

Join us as Bruce Reiter shares a masterclass in live sound mixing, from the comfort of his home studio to the electric energy of stadium shows. Discover the meticulous preparation that defines a touring sound engineer's life and the technological tools, like Smaart RTA, that ensure performances resonate with unfailing clarity. Bruce serves up an array of sound mixing techniques and tips for music connoisseurs and aspiring mixers alike, emphasizing the craft's blend of art and science. His commitment to continuous learning and mentorship shines through, offering valuable insights into an industry where precision meets passion, and every live show is an opportunity to reach sonic perfection.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Links

• Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/
• JFS Countdowns/Playlists: https://jayfranze.com/playlists/

Contact

• Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/

Socials

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze
• Everywhere: @jayfranze

Services

• Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/

Books

• Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/

Merchandise

• Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/

Support

• Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/
• Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Shout Outs

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