Author Archives: Jay Franze

About Jay Franze

Vice President at G4S – Author | Speaker | Coach, with a passion for leadership development. Leading people and teams to maximum potential through service innovation.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Talk, Best Canadian Bands, and More – Music News / Reviews / Interviews

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What makes a band truly legendary, and which Canadian artists fit that bill? Join us on a nostalgic trip as we ponder these questions and more, starting with a shout-out to our favorite northern bands. Get a behind-the-scenes look at my experience producing an album for Alison Piccioni, now known as Rocky Rose, who’s currently electrifying audiences on tour with the iconic Cyndi Lauper. We celebrate Lauper’s nomination for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and reflect on the timeless impact of her classic hit “Time After Time.” Together with my co-host Tiffany Mason, we fondly recall how the music of Bad Company and others once filled the air at local skating rinks, igniting our love for rock and roll. 

Our musical journey continues with a look at the often-blurred boundaries between genres and what truly qualifies an artist for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We examine bands like Blue Oyster Cult, Oasis, and Soundgarden, sharing personal stories like how Soundgarden’s music became a soothing companion during a bumpy flight. While the cancellation of the CMT Awards brings a bit of disappointment, there’s joy in discussing new music, including Trey Calloway’s heartfelt “Your Love Is Safe With Me,” which we predict will become a beloved wedding anthem. Plus, we give a nod to Shibuzy’s chart success and Reba McIntyre’s sweet gesture welcoming Kelsey Ballerini to The Voice.

From the art of music engineering and remembering late greats like Mike Shipley to celebrating the victories of youth cheerleading teams, our conversation covers it all. Dive into stories of Canadian musical talent, like Bryan Adams and Loverboy, and their journey to breaking into the U.S. market. We wrap up with the lighthearted chaos of Orlando traffic, a Super Bowl lip-sync debate, and the relatable highs and lows of family outings and unexpected revelations at Texas Roadhouse. Whether it’s about music, memories, or navigating life’s unexpected turns, this episode is packed with vibrant stories and heartfelt insights.

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Inside the Music: Blake Tyler’s Artistic Evolution

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In the latest episode of the Jay Franze Show, we dive deep into the inspirational journey of country music recording artist Blake Tyler. Exploring his latest cover, “Pray All the Way Home,” we uncover how Blake took a beloved song and made it a personal anthem, resonating with listeners in profound ways. Blake’s unique approach involved slowing the tempo and infusing his own emotional struggles into the performance. He reveals the pivotal role the song played in his journey toward sobriety, which started just over a year ago. This decision to quit drinking was not just about personal health; it was also a promise to his family and fans that he would be a better man and better role model for his young children.

Blake’s background adds another layer to his music. Growing up in a household that faced challenges, he tapped into his own life experiences to shape his songwriting. His recent release, “Blood Ain’t Thick,” is a raw reflection on those childhood struggles and showcases how music serves as an outlet for processing deep emotions. Through laughter and tenderness, Blake paints a picture of the trials he faced as a child of divorced parents and how those experiences fuel his artistic voice today.

Now a father himself, Blake speaks on the protective instincts that come with parenthood and how crucial it is for him to model healthy behaviors for his kids. He experiences both joy and anxiety as he strives to forge a different path from what he grew up with. Suited with a guitar, Blake’s songwriting is a blend of personal experiences and collaborations with friends and fellow musicians, further enriching his musical palette.

As he navigates the music industry, Blake emphasizes the importance of community. His loyal bandmates, who share a brotherhood, bring an incredible energy to his performances. Each show highlights their hard work and dedication, ensuring they keep the crowd engaged and entertained. Blake’s connections in the industry have earned him a spot among some of the biggest names in country music, with gigs supporting artists like Chase Matthew and Bailey Zimmerman.

The conversation also dives into Blake’s strategic use of social media, a vital tool in today’s music landscape. He acknowledges the challenges associated with maintaining a vibrant online presence while fostering genuine connections with fans. The episode highlights the dichotomy many artists face — balancing the artistry of music with the commerce of social media.

As the episode comes to a close, Blake shares heartwarming stories of his grandparents’ influence on his life and career. His grandmother, an original member of the country’s first all-female band, serves both as a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the importance of legacy in the music industry.

Join us as we reflect on Blake Tyler’s authentic storytelling, musical growth, and the future he envisions in the music realm. Whether you’re a fan of country music or seeking to understand the life of an emerging artist, this episode is sure to touch your heart.

Blake Tyler: Critically Acclaimed Recording Artist

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What if the journey to sobriety could ignite a transformative artistic path? Join us as Blake Tyler, a rising star in country music, unveils the intimate and often tumultuous experiences that shape his sound. Blake opens up about his battle with addiction, inspired by a deep commitment to his family, and how this personal decision led to a poignant cover of “Pray All the Way Home.” He shares heartfelt stories of his childhood, particularly the impact of his parents’ separation and a challenging dynamic with his stepfather, both of which influenced his latest track, “Blood Ain’t Thick.”

Blake’s path from a sales career to the bustling Nashville music scene is a testament to the power of connections. By teaming up with guitarist Joe Jordan and industry professionals like Matt McClure and Alex Kidd, he transformed his passion into a thriving career. Discover the backstage tales of collaboration, and how serendipitous encounters and strategic partnerships have paved the way for his artistic growth. Blake’s candid reflections reveal the intricacies of writing songs and performing live, offering a glimpse into the dedication required to succeed in the music industry.

Performing live can be daunting, but Blake’s insights on overcoming stage nerves and the importance of a supportive band are invaluable. With memorable anecdotes of encounters with stars like Chase Matthew and Bailey Zimmerman, Blake paints a vivid picture of the highs, lows, and humorous mishaps that come with the territory. As we explore the impact of social media, Blake emphasizes the importance of consistency and connection in building an audience of over 600,000 followers. His story is a compelling reminder of how perseverance, adaptability, and a genuine connection with fans can carve a successful path in today’s competitive music world.

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