Embarking on a journey through the vibrant and storied landscape of country music, we sit down with one of its brightest new talents, Makenzie Phipps. Her story is a testament to the enduring allure of this deeply American genre, from its roots in the humble settings of church choirs to the glittering recording studios of Nashville, Tennessee. In this episode, Mackenzie Phipps offers us an intimate glimpse into her life, sharing tales of family, passion, and the pursuit of musical greatness.

Her narrative begins in the small town of Bluefield, Virginia, where a young Makenzie found her voice in the echoes of church hymns and gospel tunes. These early experiences laid the foundation for a career that would soon take her to Nashville, the beating heart of the country music world. Listeners are invited to explore the genesis of her career, influenced by the supportive hands of family and the natural beauty of her Appalachian roots. The discussion delves into the emotional depth behind her music, especially the poignant storytelling of her song “18 Wheels,” which paints a vivid picture of life on the road and the sacrifices made by those who traverse it.

As the episode unfolds, Makenzie reveals the magic behind the music-making process in Nashville. She walks us through the wizardry of session musicians and the Nashville charting system, a unique musical shorthand that enables the rapid translation of ideas into audible reality. The anecdotes of her recording sessions, including time spent at the iconic Blackbird Studio, provide an enlightening look at the alchemy of sound engineering and production. Her experiences in the studio, where she honed her guitar skills and embraced the collaborative spirit of Nashville’s music community, showcase her artistic growth and dedication to her craft.

We then delve into the rich tapestry of country music’s evolution, reflecting on the genre’s transformation from the simplicity of its origins to the complex, multifaceted industry it is today. Makenzie’s admiration for country legends like Loretta Lynn and her aspirations to collaborate with contemporary stars such as Ashley McBryde highlight the intersection of past and future within the genre. Her own musical preferences, from song-focused listening to a deep appreciation for albums like “Lindeville,” underline the personal nature of her connection to music.

In a world where the digital age has reshaped the music industry, Makenzie stands firm in her commitment to authenticity and storytelling. She expresses a desire to “bring back ‘country’ to country music,” echoing the sentiments of her growing social media community who yearn for the soulful strains of traditional country sounds. This determination is evident in her interactions with fans, whom she regards as friends, and in her transparent approach to social media engagement.

Finally, we examine Makenzie’s songwriting journey, which is marked by a willingness to blend genres and the courage to share personal narratives through her music. The spotlight is cast on an unsung hero in her career, her PR guy Scott Sexton, whose support has been a beacon throughout her ascent. Through her stories and aspirations, Mackenzie Phipps embodies the transformative power of music and the unyielding pursuit of one’s dreams in the ever-changing landscape of country music.

Join us on this melodious adventure with Makenzie Phipps, where each chord struck is a reminder of the passion and perseverance that define the soul of country music. Her journey from choir to country icon is a harmonious blend of dreams and roots, offering a poignant reminder of why we turn to music to tell the stories of our lives.

In the realm of country music, few names are as synonymous with harmony and heritage as William Lee Golden of the Oak Ridge Boys. This podcast episode offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain, revealing the intimate details of Golden’s personal and professional life. As we settle into the conversation, it becomes clear that this is more than just an interview; it’s a journey through the heart of country music’s evolution and the resilience it takes to carve out a legacy in this iconic genre.

The episode begins with a touching exploration of Golden’s familial connections, both within the Oak Ridge Boys and with his family band, the Goldens. The recent transition of the band with the addition of Ben Isaacs following Joe Bonsall’s departure highlights the continual growth and change within the group. Golden reflects on this shift with warmth, emphasizing the blessings and new energy that Isaacs brings to the ensemble.

Throughout the conversation, the impact of the pandemic on the music industry and on artists like Golden is a recurring theme. However, rather than dwelling on the silence it imposed, Golden reveals how he transformed this period into a symphony of creativity. Collaborating with his family, he harnessed the stillness to produce new music, showing that even in the most challenging times, artistry can flourish.

As we delve into the mechanics of the music business, the discussion uncovers the complexities of record labels and the digital revolution. It becomes evident that risk-taking is not just a choice but a necessity for artists striving to stay relevant and authentic. Golden’s candid insights into the evolving landscape of album production underscore the relentless pace and rewarding nature of the music industry.

Nostalgia intertwines with forward-looking ambition as Golden reminisces about the milestones that have punctuated his career. From the joys of performing hit songs like “Thank God for Kids” to witnessing his grandchildren follow in his musical footsteps, each memory is a note in the symphony of his life.

The episode is rich in the themes that resonate with fans of country music: resilience, creativity, family, and legacy. As listeners, we’re reminded of the timeless connections that music forges and the stories it tells. Golden’s odyssey is not just his own; it’s a reflection of the genre’s history and its unwavering spirit.

For those who revere the harmonious blend of gospel and country, with its nods to rock legends and the heartfelt narratives woven into each song, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. It is a heartfelt exploration of a life lived in tune with the rhythms of an ever-changing industry, and a testament to the unsung melodies that continue to shape our musical heritage.

William Lee Golden’s story is one of crafting history in the harmony of hardship, a symphony that resonates with anyone who has ever found solace or strength in a song. As the episode draws to a close, we are left with a profound appreciation for the music that tells his story and the undying chords of change that he has struck throughout his remarkable career.

The pandemic era has brought about significant changes in the way artists connect with their audience and produce music. Matt Oakley, a country artist who found his voice during this unprecedented time, is a prime example of adaptability and success in the face of adversity. The latest episode of The Jay Franze Show delves deep into Matt’s journey, offering listeners a chance to understand the grit and melody that define his unique sound.

The rise of social media has played a pivotal role in the success of many aspiring artists. For Matt Oakley, platforms like TikTok became a launchpad for showcasing his talent. The viral nature of social media allowed him to reach a vast audience, and his authentic approach to music resonated with many. His story is not just about personal growth but also about understanding the power of digital platforms in building a career in music.

Songwriting is an art form that requires both skill and emotional depth. In conversation with Jay Franze, Matt Oakley reveals his approach to crafting songs that tell a story, much like his influences Rascal Flatts and Riley Green. This emphasis on storytelling is a hallmark of country music, and Matt’s ability to convey heartfelt narratives through his songs has been a significant factor in his growing popularity.

Another crucial aspect of his journey is collaboration. Matt shares insights into his fruitful partnerships with Nashville’s finest songwriters and producers. The blending of his fresh perspective with the expertise of industry veterans has led to the creation of music that stays true to country roots while appealing to modern listeners. It is this synergy that has allowed him to refine his sound and produce relatable music.

Navigating the complexities of music production is no small feat. Matt’s experience working with the likes of Mike Stanowitz, Mosey, David Ray, and Phil Mosley provides a glimpse into the meticulous process of creating a country album. From the technical decisions in the studio to the strategic release of singles, his narrative highlights the dedication and precision required to make music that lasts.

Personal growth is evident in Matt’s reflection on his musical journey. He candidly discusses the challenges faced by new artists, such as overcoming self-doubt and embracing their unique voice. The evolution of his style, from emulating popular trends to forging his path, underscores the importance of authenticity in the music industry.

In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, the role of social media in an artist’s career cannot be overstated. Matt and Jay Franze discuss the delicate balance between engaging with fans personally and utilizing marketing teams to handle the business side of things. The episode brings to light the necessity for artists to navigate social media effectively to amplify their reach and solidify their brand.

Matt Oakley’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of authenticity. His journey from isolation to the spotlight is a testament to the resilience and creativity of artists in the modern era. This episode is not just an exploration of his musical ascent but also a blueprint for aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the industry. Join the Jay Franze Show for a comprehensive look at what it takes to rise in the ranks of country music, one authentic chord at a time.