What happens when three talented musicians cross paths with one of Nashville’s most esteemed producers? This episode of our podcast delves into the serendipitous origins of McBride and the Ride, a band that became legendary under the masterful guidance of Tony Brown. Ray Herndon discusses his transition from touring with Lyle Lovett to joining the band, while Terry McBride shares his experiences with Delbert McClinton and a pivotal letter from Tony Brown that turned into a golden opportunity. The episode takes you through their first meetings, rehearsals, and the magical moment when their harmonious chemistry was discovered.

In the early days of McBride and the Ride, the unique experiences of working with Nashville’s esteemed producer Tony Brown are explored. Ray Herndon reveals his shift from touring with Lyle Lovett to joining the band, while Terry McBride recounts his time with Delbert McClinton and the significance of receiving a rejection letter from Tony Brown. The episode recounts stories of first meetings, initial rehearsals, and the serendipitous moments that brought the band members together. Tony Brown’s influence was significant in shaping the band’s journey, providing a strong foundation for their musical endeavors.

The evolution of McBride and the Ride’s harmonies and sound is another key topic. During their initial rehearsals, the band members quickly realized the potential of their vocal blend, which combined tenor, baritone, and falsetto voices. This natural harmony became a defining feature of their music. The creative process behind their hits like “Can I Count on You” and “Burning Up the Road” is discussed, highlighting the studio sessions under Tony Brown’s influential eye. The band’s distinctive harmony set them apart in the music industry, shaping their identity and success.

Recording studio memories and life on the road form an integral part of the episode. Working with songwriting legends like Harlan Howard, Kostas, and Guy Clark, and recording in historic studios such as Soundstage and Peter Frampton’s studio are some of the highlights. The modern recording process, using technology to collaborate across distances, is also discussed. Recent projects, including a live EP recorded at Handlebar J, showcase how the band’s musical journey continues to evolve. The enduring nature of great music and the influence of iconic songwriters are evident in the band’s recordings.

On the road, McBride and the Ride have experienced numerous memorable moments and humorous incidents. The band’s journey with their music and live performances is explored, highlighting the balance between rock and ballads in their shows. Challenges and changes in touring, from the loss of a big tour bus to a streamlined approach using a suburban and a box truck, are discussed. Light-hearted moments on the road, such as humorous anecdotes about their steel player’s first visit to Buc-ee’s, add a touch of camaraderie and fun to the episode.

The episode also pays tribute to the key crew members like Tom Hensley and Lee Weaver, acknowledging their significant contributions and unwavering support in making the shows a success. Memorable moments and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from life on the road with the band are recounted, including the amusing creation of the nonsensical phrase “daddle, naddle, faddle, waddle, paddle, daddle” born out of a drunken miscommunication, and tales of bungee jumping and documenting wild times on the tour bus. A humorous incident involving a runaway trailer that miraculously stayed intact is also shared.

This episode is filled with stories that will make you laugh and appreciate the camaraderie that fuels McBride and the Ride. From their early days and the influence of Tony Brown to their distinctive harmonies and studio sessions, the band’s journey is a testament to their talent and perseverance. Their recent projects, including a live EP recorded at Handlebar J, demonstrate how their musical journey continues to evolve, blending past and present influences.

For fans of McBride and the Ride, this episode offers an intimate look at the band’s history, their creative process, and the experiences that have shaped their music. The stories of working with iconic songwriters, recording in historic studios, and the challenges and joys of life on the road provide a comprehensive overview of the band’s journey. The episode is a celebration of their music, their camaraderie, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes who have contributed to their success.

Join us for this nostalgic trip with McBride and the Ride, filled with unforgettable stories and insights into their musical journey. From their serendipitous origins and the evolution of their harmonies to their recording studio memories and on-the-road shenanigans, this episode is a must-listen for fans and music enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss out on these epic band adventures and the tales of the unsung heroes who made it all possible.

In this engaging episode of the podcast, we sit down with John McEwen, a legendary musician and founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. McEwen shares an intimate look at the defining moments that have shaped his illustrious career. From high school shenanigans with Steve Martin to the heartwarming story behind his album “The Newsman,” this episode is a treasure trove of musical memories and insights.

One of the most touching stories McEwen shares is about a young paperboy with cerebral palsy who sold newspapers up and down Sunset Boulevard. This young boy’s determination and hard work left a lasting impression on McEwen and inspired his album “The Newsman.” The album is a testament to the power of storytelling in music, a theme that McEwen passionately discusses throughout the episode. His friendship with Steve Martin, which began in high school, also plays a significant role in his journey. From performing together at Disneyland to their first standing ovation, McEwen reflects on how these experiences shaped his career.

The episode also delves into the iconic recording sessions at Nashville’s Woodland studio, where the award-winning “Circle Be Unbroken” album was created. McEwen offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of timeless tracks like “Old Rivers” and discusses the importance of authenticity in country music storytelling. His collaborations with the Oak Ridge Boys and other artists highlight the camaraderie and mutual respect within the music community. The stories are filled with humor and nostalgia, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the music industry.

As we travel back to the 70s, McEwen shares lively tales of road life and special moments. These stories capture the essence of a musician’s life on the road, filled with both challenges and joys. Unique recording experiences, such as using a single microphone and the connection to the Everly Brothers’ legacy through “My Favorite Dream,” offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process. McEwen’s autobiography, “The Life I’ve Picked,” also provides whimsical stories and valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability in the music industry.

The chapter summaries provide a structured overview of the episode’s key topics. In the first chapter, “Behind the Music,” McEwen discusses his early career and the profound impact of the young paperboy. He also reminisces about his friendship with Steve Martin and their early performances. The second chapter, “Recording Session Memories and Collaborations,” takes us on a nostalgic journey through the recording of the “Circle Be Unbroken” album and McEwen’s diverse career paths. The third chapter, “Musical Collaborations and Recording Experiences,” highlights McEwen’s collaborations with the Oak Ridge Boys and the unique recording process for his album “Roots Music Made in Brooklyn.” The final chapter, “Road Life and Musical Memories,” explores McEwen’s journey as an entertainer, the impact of COVID-19 on his career, and anecdotes from his autobiography.

In the transcript samples from key chapters, we get a closer look at McEwen’s storytelling prowess. In “Behind the Music,” he vividly describes the young paperboy’s impact on his career and the early days with Steve Martin. The “Musical Collaborations and Recording Experiences” chapter features McEwen’s recounting of a special recording session with the Oak Ridge Boys and the unique process of recording with a single microphone. The “Road Life and Musical Memories” chapter provides amusing anecdotes from McEwen’s storied career, including a humorous tale about the pronunciation of “sherbet” during a meal with a bandmate.

Throughout the episode, McEwen’s passion for music and storytelling shines through. His ability to weave humor and heartfelt moments into his narratives makes this episode a must-listen for music enthusiasts and aspiring musicians alike. The episode not only provides valuable insights into the music industry but also serves as a source of inspiration and entertainment.

In conclusion, this podcast episode with John McEwen is a captivating exploration of his remarkable career and the timeless tales that have defined his journey. From the heartfelt story behind “The Newsman” album to the iconic recording sessions in Nashville, McEwen’s stories are filled with humor, inspiration, and a deep love for music. This episode is a celebration of the magic of storytelling in music and the enduring legacy of a legendary musician.

Navigating the complex landscape of entertainment contracts and artist management is no small feat. In the latest episode of the Jay Franze Show, we get an exclusive insider perspective from Josh Lastine, managing partner of Lastine Entertainment Law. With his extensive experience in the entertainment industry, Josh provides invaluable insights into the nuances of transactional law, the evolving landscape of the industry, and the pivotal roles managers play in an artist’s career. This blog post delves into the main topics discussed in the episode, offering a roadmap for aspiring artists and seasoned professionals alike.

One of the primary topics Josh covers is the intricacies of crafting the perfect contract for various media forms, including TV, film, music, and even NFTs. The entertainment industry is riddled with complex agreements, and understanding these contracts is crucial for anyone involved. Josh emphasizes the importance of thorough contract analysis and negotiation to avoid common legal pitfalls. He shares his experiences working with studios, production companies, and individual talents, highlighting the need for clarity and precision in contractual terms.

Josh also discusses the often-blurred lines between the roles of managers and attorneys in the music industry. While managers are typically responsible for overseeing an artist’s career and securing opportunities, attorneys focus on the legal aspects, such as contract negotiations and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Josh points out that in the music industry, professionals often wear multiple hats, which can lead to confusion and potential conflicts of interest. He advises artists to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of their team members to ensure smooth and effective collaboration.

The evolving landscape of the entertainment industry is another key topic Josh explores. With the rise of digital media, new opportunities and challenges have emerged for artists and their representatives. Josh delves into the complexities of 360 deals, which encompass multiple revenue streams such as record sales, touring, merchandise, and endorsements. He explains how these deals can benefit artists by providing comprehensive support and resources, but also cautions about the potential downsides, such as the higher percentage of earnings that may be claimed by the label or management.

Understanding recoupment clauses is essential for artists, as these determine how and when they will be required to repay advances and other expenses incurred by their record label or management. Josh highlights the importance of verifying legitimate expenses and ensuring transparency in financial dealings. He stresses that artists should be savvy about their contracts and foster strong relationships with their representatives to navigate the industry’s demands effectively.

The episode also delves into the strategic moves artists need to make to climb from entry-level gigs to top-tier contracts. Josh emphasizes the importance of networking and building a solid reputation in the industry. He advises artists to start early, attend industry events, and connect with key players such as agents, managers, and entertainment lawyers. Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn can also be beneficial, as it provides access to a vast network of business professionals who can help advance an artist’s career.

In addition to the professional aspects of artist management, Josh shares personal stories and experiences that highlight the importance of trust and clarity in these relationships. He recounts instances where miscommunications and misunderstandings led to legal disputes, underscoring the need for clear and explicit agreements from the outset. Josh’s heartfelt anecdotes provide valuable lessons for both artists and their representatives, emphasizing the significance of mutual respect and transparency.

They explore the challenges faced by artists in managing multiple revenue streams and the role of personal managers, business managers, and attorneys in ensuring fair deals. The conversation underscores the need for a well-rounded team of professionals who can provide specialized support in different areas of an artist’s career.

For those interested in diving deeper into the topics discussed, all relevant links and additional details can be found at jfranzy.com/episode84. This episode of the Jay Franze Show is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of entertainment contracts and artist management. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, Josh Lestein’s expert guidance offers a roadmap to navigating the often-turbulent waters of the entertainment industry.

This episode of the Jay Franze Show with Josh Lastine is an essential listen for anyone involved in the entertainment industry. From crafting the perfect contract to understanding the intricacies of artist management, Josh provides invaluable insights that can help artists and their representatives navigate the complex landscape of the industry. With a focus on trust, clarity, and strategic planning, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to achieving success in the entertainment world.