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

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we're sitting with the incredible recording artist Cody Howell. Hailing from the heartland with a dash of Nashville spirit, Cody's music blends western sound and a midwestern heart. Inspired by the likes of Randy Rogers, Dierks Bentley, and Zane Williams, his songs genuinely reflect his country lifestyle.

But there's more to Cody than just his music. Before making it in the music scene, this Kansas native served our country in the United States Navy for seven years. Now, he's settled in Nashville, attending Belmont University, and giving back through organizations like Project K-9 Hero, supporting veterans and their families.

Cody's journey in Music City took an exciting turn when he crossed paths with renowned musician and producer Kent Wells. He's not only a rising star in his own right but also made a mark as a background vocalist on Dolly Parton's highly-anticipated Rock Album, Rockstar.

Join us as we chat with Cody about his experiences, his new solo project, "Any Way You Go," and what's in store for his upcoming full album. This episode is a deep dive into the world of an artist making waves in the country music scene. You won't want to miss it!

Episode Links

• Cody Howell: https://www.codyhowellcountry.com/

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Shout Outs

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

On this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we're thrilled to have the captivating Reena Friedman Watts, a seasoned on-air personality, TV producer, and the mastermind behind "Better Call Daddy." Reena's journey from the Jerry Springer Show to Court TV is nothing short of extraordinary, and she's all about bringing stories to life.

Join us as Reena shares her passion for storytelling and dives into the unique family dynamic that drives her podcast. In "Better Call Daddy," Reena teams up with her Dad for insightful, uncensored conversations with a wide range of guests, from influential business leaders to phone sex workers. There are no boundaries here!

Discover the power of authentic relationships, teamwork, and the wisdom that her father imparts in every episode. Reena's blend of humor and candid discussions will keep you engaged until the end.

Episode Links

• Better Call Daddy: https://bettercalldaddy.com/

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

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we've got the incredibly talented country music recording artist Sarah Ames in the hot seat.

Join us as we dive deep into Sarah's journey from suburban California to the heart of Nashville, where she's making music and growing her vegetables, raising chickens, bees, and rescue animals on her farm. We'll discuss how her song "Heart Thing" beautifully captures her unexpected love for country living, proving that the country spirit is in all of us sometimes.

But don't let the farm life fool you – Sarah's music is as diverse as her experiences. We'll explore her unapologetic and fiery side in songs like "Bitch Can Drive," showcasing her dynamic artistry and storytelling skills.

With production from industry heavyweights like Ryan Tyndell and Oscar Charles, Sarah's new music blurs the lines between country, pop, and rock, creating a unique sound that's as captivating as her personality.

Episode Links

• Sarah Ames: https://www.sarahames.com/

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
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Join us on The Jay Franze Show for an electrifying episode featuring Asher Laub, the maestro of the electric violin. From his early classical training at age 2 to performing at renowned venues like Madison Square Garden, Asher's musical journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

But Asher's story takes a remarkable turn when he faced health challenges that tested his resilience. Refusing to surrender to adversity, he emerged as a dancing violinist, seamlessly blending genres and breakdancing into his performances. His indomitable spirit shines through in every note he plays.

We delve into Asher's inspiring journey, discussing his mission to redefine musical performance and break down societal barriers. Plus, get a sneak peek into his latest high-octane hit, "Atlantis," and hear about his upcoming original album.

Episode Links

• Asher Laub: https://www.asherlaub.com/

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Shout Outs

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

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we sit down with Drew Ryder Smith, a true luminary in the country music scene. Drew's remarkable journey from growing up between the musical epicenters of Nashville and Muscle Shoals to becoming a sought-after country singer, songwriter, and producer is inspiring.

We dive into Drew's early beginnings, where his mischievous voice led to a surprising career in radio at just 14 years old. His influences, including legends like Merle Haggard and John Prine, shaped his unique sound and songwriting prowess. Drew shares incredible stories from his career, such as opening for Merle Haggard at the iconic Ryman Auditorium and collaborating with some of Nashville's brightest talents.

But Drew's story doesn't stop at the stage; he's also a successful producer and senior mixing engineer at Gray Sound Recording LLC. He reveals the secrets behind his studio success and introduces us to "The Before You Record Course," designed to empower aspiring artists for their first recording sessions.

Join us for a conversation with laughter, music, and Drew's undeniable passion for dogs. You read that right: Drew's love for our furry friends is as heartwarming as his music.

Episode Links

• Drew Ryder Smith: https://drewrydersmith.com/

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Shout Outs

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

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we dive into audio engineering with a true industry veteran, John Saylor. With over 25 years of experience in professional audio, John's track record speaks for itself. He's done everything from working with legends like Charley Pride and George Jones to collaborating with heavy hitters like Megadeth and Mark Knopfler.

But John's expertise doesn't stop at the studio door. He's not just an engineer; he's a Grammy-winning producer passionate about the craft. Join us as we explore his journey from the Nashville music scene to earning a Grammy for Best Folk Album with "Beautiful Dreamer: The Songs of Stephen Foster."

We'll uncover the secrets behind his ability to work quickly and confidently with various artists, musicians, and producers. Whether you're an aspiring audio engineer or a music enthusiast, you won't want to miss this candid conversation with a true recording industry expert.

Episode Links

• Frenklin Recording: https://franklinrecording.com/

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Shout Outs

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

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we're joined by the incredibly talented and accomplished music producer and engineer Tom Harding. From humble beginnings in Utah to becoming a sought-after figure in the music industry, Tom's journey is inspiring.

Tom's passion for music and recording led him on a remarkable path. Growing up in a military family, he ventured from college to Saudi Arabia and back, driven by the desire to become a recording engineer. His choice to attend Memphis State University set the stage for an incredible career.

During his time at MTSU, Tom's internship at Elektra Records opened doors he could have never imagined. A chance encounter led him to an assistant's job at a new sound studio, where he honed his skills and learned from industry legends. Tom's dedication and talent eventually earned him the role of the first engineer.

As Tom shares his story, we dive into the pivotal moments that defined his career. From producing albums for artists like BB King, Etta James, Buddy Guy, and Cissy Houston to engineering for ZZ Top, Tom's contributions to the music world are genuinely remarkable.

We'll also explore the birth of Tombstone Recording, the studio he co-founded and transformed into a hub for creativity. This studio has been the birthplace of countless hits and hosted renowned artists like Burt Bacharach, Brooks & Dunn, and Pam Tillis.

Join us as we delve into the life and career of Tom Harding, a music producer and engineer whose dedication, passion, and talent have left an indelible mark on the music industry. You won't want to miss this fascinating episode filled with stories from behind the mixing console and insights into the magic of music production. Tune in now!

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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

On this episode we are joined by the incredibly talented session keyboard and piano player Charles Judge. Hailing from the Nashville, Tennessee, music scene, Charles brings a lifetime of experience and a captivating journey story to the show.

With a resume that reads like a who's who of the music industry, Charles has left his indelible mark on the world of music. He's been the musical backbone for some of the biggest names in the business, including Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, and countless others.

Charles shares his insights into crafting unforgettable melodies, working with superstar artists, and the art of adapting to diverse musical styles. He'll take us behind the scenes of his most memorable collaborations, offering a glimpse into what it's like to play a pivotal role in shaping chart-topping hits.

Charles also opens up about the challenges and triumphs of his career, the secrets of his creative process, and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. From Nashville's renowned recording studios to the biggest stages around the globe, his story is a testament to the dedication, passion, and sheer talent required to thrive in the music industry.

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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

We're thrilled to have the legendary Bob Bullock in the studio in this edition. With a career that spans four decades, Bob's journey from Los Angeles to Nashville is a masterclass in music production and engineering.

Starting under the guidance of legends like Humberto Gatica and Reggie Dozier, Bob's expertise took him to the top. His impressive resume includes working with icons such as The Tubes, Art Garfunkel, and REO Speedwagon. And let's not forget those fifty-plus gold and platinum albums he engineered while living in Nashville, featuring the likes of Shania Twain and George Strait.

But Bob's not just about big names – he's a champion of independent artists from around the globe. His recent productions have showcased rising stars' talents as he continues redefining the industry landscape. His commitment doesn't stop at the studio; Bob's focus on artist development and education has made him an integral part of universities like Belmont and Troy.

Join us for a candid conversation about the music industry's evolution, the power of education, and what it takes to bring out the best in every artist. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and its ever-changing beat.

Episode Links

• Bob Bullock: https://bobbullock.net/

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
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Get ready to dive into the heart of Nashville's music scene as we welcome a true maestro of sound, Jim Cristaldi, to The Jay Franze Show! In this electrifying episode, we sit down with the multi-talented producer/engineer, singer/songwriter who's been setting the music industry abuzz with his expertise and passion.

As the owner of Cristaldi Music, one of Nashville's most renowned production companies, Jim Cristaldi has been instrumental in shaping the sonic landscape of countless hit songs. Join us as he shares his insights into transforming a simple musical idea into a full-fledged hit song. We'll explore his creative process, from the initial inspiration to the final notes that make your heart sing.

What goes on behind the scenes in the recording studio? Jim Cristaldi lifts the curtain and journeys through his experiences working with some of Nashville's finest musicians. From the exhilarating highs to the challenges of bringing musical visions to life, you'll get an insider's look at the magic within those four walls.

Jim's magic touch isn't limited to established stars. He's significantly impacted the careers of independent artists from across the country. Discover the stories of rising talents whose dreams turned into reality with Jim's guidance. We'll explore how he turns raw potential into polished, professional recordings that capture the essence of each artist's unique voice.

Beyond his role as a producer and engineer, Jim Cristaldi is a singer/songwriter in his own right. We'll explore how his musical journey influences his work behind the scenes. His commitment to authenticity shines through in every project he touches, creating a harmonious blend of technical expertise and heartfelt emotion.

Join us for an episode filled with insightful anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep dive into the world of music production and songwriting. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a budding artist, or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation with Jim Cristaldi will surely strike a chord.

Tune in to The Jay Franze Show as we sit down with Jim Cristaldi to explore the intersections of melody, technique, and the power of music to touch our souls. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and immersed in the magic of sound!

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Shout Outs

• High Mountain Breezes Music: https://highmountainbreezesmusic.com/
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