Singer-songwriter Will Wesley joins us for a heartfelt conversation that sheds light on the emotional journey behind his latest single, “12 O’Clock in Texas.” Through a poignant personal story, Will opens up about his late brother Daniel’s influence on his life and music, revealing how his loss became a powerful source of inspiration. Our discussion is an exploration of grief, healing, and the transformative power of music, as Will shares how a mysterious gust of wind led him to pen the song’s first draft, channeling his emotions into a piece that resonates with listeners on a deep level.

The episode also delves into the nuts and bolts of music production and collaboration, as Will recounts the journey with producer Phil Chandler and audio engineer Tyler Hansen. Capturing the essence of the song meant recording on the road, adapting to unexpected challenges like rain during filming, and bringing together talented musicians to craft a unique sound. The artistic choices and teamwork involved in creating “12 O’Clock in Texas” are a testament to the dedication and passion that go into producing an emotionally charged track.

Completing the artistic vision was the creation of the music video, where I had the pleasure of collaborating with director Jordan. Together, we blended visual storytelling with the music’s emotional depth, highlighting the role of creativity in enhancing a song’s narrative. From location scouting to manipulating film speed for added emotional tones, the video was a labor of love that underscores the importance of collaboration in bringing a project to life. Join us for this inspiring episode as we celebrate the union of personal tragedy and artistic triumph.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Will Wesley: https://www.willwesleymusic.com/

Singer, songwriter, and entertainer John Michael Ferrari graces our show, offering an inspiring look into his musical journey. From snagging his first award at the Las Vegas Music Awards to climbing the national charts, John’s story is packed with milestones that have opened doors throughout the music industry. Together, we uncover the significance of these achievements and the crucial role of collaboration with his producer, Pepper, who has been a guiding force in his creative process, especially during his recording sessions in Nashville.

We invite you to explore John’s creative world, where inspiration often feels like a divine gift. John shares how he taps into his higher self to craft lyrics and melodies, emphasizing the importance of a distraction-free environment. With Pepper’s invaluable input, the fusion of country, pop, and Broadway influences in his music becomes a recipe for chart success. The vibrant entertainment scene of Las Vegas has deeply influenced his aspirations, drawing from legendary performers like Louis Prima to enhance his unique style.

John also opens up about his evolution as a Vegas performer and his journey through the entertainment industry’s ups and downs. From honing his craft in small venues to learning resilience in the stand-up comedy world, John’s narrative is a testament to perseverance. Engaging audiences with energy and authentic connection remains a cornerstone of his performances. He shares the philosophy that treating everyone in the crowd as friends can transform the experience, ensuring audiences leave feeling entertained and uplifted.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• John Michael Ferrari: https://johnmichaelferrari.com/

Country music fans, brace yourselves! We had the pleasure of hosting the talented Robby Johnson, who took us on an enthralling journey through the vibrant Nashville music scene. He shared his personal experiences performing at iconic venues like Tootsie’s and engaging with fans at CMA Fest, painting a vivid picture of the electric energy that defines these events. Robby’s candid stories about fan interactions reveal the heartwarming connections that fuel his passion for music, reminding us of the profound impact artists and fans have on each other’s lives.

Robby also opened up about the art of songwriting and collaboration, highlighting the unpredictable and magical process of creating music. He offered insights into his creative partnerships, including an exciting collaboration with Vince Gill that breathed new life into a track from his album “Don’t Look Back.” Through his experiences with seasoned producers like Danny Rader and James Stroud, Robby illustrated the delicate balance between spontaneity and precision in music production, underscoring the importance of trusting one’s instincts while embracing the expertise of industry veterans.

As we wrapped up our conversation, we celebrated the unsung heroes of the music world, from studio musicians to dedicated fans. Robby shared touching anecdotes about memorable performances, including a thrilling night opening for Keith Urban, and paid tribute to those who have supported him from the very start. With stories of autograph signings and unexpected requests, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the camaraderie and shared journey of artists and their audiences, offering listeners a genuine glimpse into the life of a country music artist.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Robby Johnson: https://www.robby-johnson.com/