In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the captivating world of Bruce Tarletsky and his Nashville supergroup, High Mountain Breezes. Bruce, who ventured into songwriting later in life, found an unexpected source of inspiration in a dedicated group of session musicians. With producer Bob Bullock’s support, Bruce has cultivated a unique musical space that thrives on friendship, collaboration, and personal expression. This episode uncovers how these elements come together to create music that transcends the ordinary, leaving a lasting legacy.

The journey begins with Bruce’s late entry into the world of songwriting and his experiences navigating the Nashville music scene. His serendipitous encounters with talented session players led to the formation of High Mountain Breezes, a group where the magic of consistent collaboration was palpable. Bruce highlights the importance of creating a space where musicians can express themselves authentically, leading to the birth of a musical legacy that reflects their true essence.

One of the standout stories in this episode is the reimagining of the classic “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” This rendition, brought to life by Melissa Duvall, Gwen Sebastian, and Heather Beckett, topped charts in Europe and showcased the group’s innovative approach to music. The creative process behind this arrangement, led by Chris and enriched by insights from Michael Spriggs, demonstrates the power of collaboration and real-life experiences in shaping successful hits. The release of their album in December 2021, which amassed significant traction and multiple number-one hits, further underscores their impact on the music scene.

The emotional depth of High Mountain Breezes’ music is a recurring theme throughout the episode. Songs like “Daddy’s Margarita Rose” and “Stars in Lahaina Tonight” exemplify how personal loss and real-life stories can transform into powerful, relatable lyrics. The story of a wife’s grief in “Daddy’s Margarita Rose” and a friend’s lost love in “Stars in Lahaina Tonight” illustrate the profound impact of genuine emotions on songwriting. Collaborations with notable musicians like Connie Reeder, who worked with John Denver, add another layer of authenticity and heartfelt expression to their music.

The unsung heroes behind the scenes also play a crucial role in High Mountain Breezes’ success. The episode highlights the creative and marketing process behind their unique rendition of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” Deborah’s soulful contribution and Dustin’s marketing expertise, including his work on websites and album designs, are pivotal in bringing their music to a wider audience. The sense of family within the project and the respect among team members contribute to the group’s cohesive and fulfilling journey.

Bruce’s partnership with producer Bob Bullock is another key element in the group’s story. Bob’s contributions and experiences, hinted at in this episode, promise to be a topic of future discussions. The episode also touches on the collaborative songwriting process, featuring contributions from renowned songwriters like Jan Buckingham and Monty Lane Allen. Their insights into co-writing and the importance of real-life experiences in crafting relatable songs add valuable perspectives to the discussion.

The episode is rich with anecdotes and stories that illustrate the heart and soul of High Mountain Breezes. From Bruce’s first concert experience with John Denver at Red Rocks to the poignant reflections on lost love and the songwriter’s legacy, each story adds depth to the narrative. The song “Songwriter’s Heart,” inspired by a conversation with Becky Hobbs, encapsulates the enduring impact of heartfelt lyrics and the living legacy of songwriters.

This episode offers a backstage pass to the intricate world of High Mountain Breezes and the team that makes their music possible. Through heartfelt stories, innovative collaborations, and a deep appreciation for genuine emotions, Bruce Tarletsky and his group have crafted a musical legacy that resonates with listeners. Tune in to discover the incredible journey of High Mountain Breezes and the heartfelt process behind their unforgettable hits.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Chloe Styler, an exceptionally talented country music artist from Australia’s Gold Coast. Chloe shares her exhilarating experience of performing at the iconic Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, a venue renowned for its intimate and respectful audience. She opens up about the overwhelming sense of accomplishment she felt, highlighting the contrasting vibes between Nashville’s vibrant music scene and the emerging country music culture in Australia.

Chloe’s performance at the Bluebird Cafe was a significant milestone in her career. She recounts the initial nerves and the unique atmosphere of the venue, where the attentive audience contributed to an unforgettable night. Chloe’s candid discussion offers a fresh perspective on her musical influences and experiences, providing valuable insights for aspiring musicians and fans alike.

The conversation then shifts to Chloe’s creative synergy with renowned producer Luke Wooten. Chloe gives us an insider’s look at their collaborative process at Station West in Nashville’s Berry Hill. She explains how they blend country, pop, and rock elements to create her signature sound. The recording sessions at Station West were dynamic and efficient, showcasing the dedication and passion driving Chloe’s music career. The success of their latest track “Read A Room,” which is climbing the Australian radio charts, is a testament to their hard work and creative chemistry.

Chloe also delves into the personal stories behind her songs “Call It” and “Little Lady.” She reveals the vulnerability and excitement that come with releasing deeply personal tracks. These songs are not just musical compositions but heartfelt narratives that resonate with listeners on a profound level. Chloe discusses the challenges of being an independent artist, including balancing self-management, industry pressures, and personal health. Her candid insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief.

Technology plays an indispensable role in Chloe’s creative workflow. She shares how essential devices like her iPhone 13 Pro Max, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface, and 14-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display support her creativity and productivity. These tools seamlessly integrate into both her personal and professional realms, demonstrating how technology shapes the modern music production process.

Chloe’s journey is not just about musical achievements but also about overcoming hurdles and navigating the complexities of the music industry. She talks about the difficulties of self-management, dealing with illness, and the pressure of meeting deadlines while balancing personal health. Chloe’s experiences of pushing back release dates and participating in award shows like the Gold Coast Music Awards highlight the resilience required to succeed as an independent artist. Despite not winning, the recognition and opportunity to perform were invaluable, underscoring the importance of persistence and self-belief.

Imposter syndrome and self-doubt are recurring themes in Chloe’s narrative. She candidly shares how she navigates these challenges, emphasizing the importance of family support and personal growth. Chloe reflects on societal expectations versus personal choices, illustrating how everyone’s journey unfolds differently, especially in their twenties. Her song “25” encapsulates these sentiments, resonating with many who feel the pressure of achieving milestones at a young age.

In conclusion, this episode offers an inspiring and heartfelt narrative of Chloe Styler’s musical journey. From her dream performance at the Bluebird Cafe to her collaborative process with Luke Wooten, Chloe’s story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the magic of music. Her candid discussions on the challenges of being an independent artist, the role of technology in her creative workflow, and her personal growth provide valuable insights for aspiring musicians and fans. Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, resilience, and the enchanting world of country music.

In this week’s episode of the Jay Franze Show, we embark on a fascinating journey with country music recording artist Kyle Fields. From the small town of Greenup, Kentucky, to the bustling music scene of Nashville, Kyle’s story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of music. It all started with a Christmas gift from his grandmother, a humble guitar that ignited his lifelong love for music. This episode delves into Kyle’s roots, his high school jam sessions, and his move to Nashville, shedding light on the trials and triumphs he faced along the way.

Kyle’s musical journey began in Greenup, a rural town where music was a significant part of his family life. Surrounded by singers and musicians, Kyle’s passion for music was evident from a young age. High school was a time of exploration and growth for Kyle, where he formed a garage band with friends and spent countless hours jamming and honing his craft. These formative years were crucial in shaping his musical style and aspirations.

The move to Nashville in his early 20s was a pivotal moment in Kyle’s career. The culture shock of transitioning from a small town to a bustling city was challenging, but it also presented new opportunities. Nashville, known as Music City, is a melting pot of talent and creativity. Kyle immersed himself in this vibrant environment, learning guitar chords and eventually opening for Kid Rock in front of a massive audience of 32,000 people. This experience was a significant milestone, showcasing Kyle’s growth as an artist and performer.

One of the highlights of the episode is Kyle’s discussion about his first album. The inspiration behind the album is deeply personal, exploring themes like drinking, breakups, opioid addiction, and heartfelt tributes to Kentucky and Conway Twitty. The writing process was lengthy and sometimes chaotic, involving both solo and co-writing sessions. Kyle emphasizes the importance of personal connections in songwriting, preferring this approach over Nashville’s more structured co-writing schedules. This preference adds a unique and personal touch to his music, resonating with listeners on a deeper level.

The recording process for Kyle’s album was equally unique. It took place in both Nashville and Jason Hale’s studio in Kentucky, blending the best of both worlds. The instrumental elements, such as the fiddle and steel guitar, play a crucial role in defining Kyle’s sound. These traditional instruments add a rich, authentic feel to his music, paying homage to his country roots while also appealing to a broader audience.

Kyle’s experiences in the music industry provide valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of Music Row and beyond. Working at Farmland Studios, known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, offered a stark contrast to the more commercial studios. This setting allowed Kyle to feel more comfortable and connected to his work, fostering creativity and authenticity. The migration of studios to Berry Hill and the changing dynamics of Music Row reflect the industry’s evolution, but the core essence of Nashville as a hub for musical talent remains intact.

Performing on Nashville’s Broadway was another significant chapter in Kyle’s journey. The vibrant Broadway scene is a training ground for many aspiring musicians, offering invaluable lessons and opportunities to hone performance skills. Kyle’s reflections on missing home while pursuing his dreams highlight the sacrifices and bittersweet moments that come with a career in music. Despite these challenges, the thrill of reaching significant career milestones and the heartwarming stories of audience engagement and social media interactions make the journey worthwhile.

One particularly touching moment in the episode is Kyle’s encounter with Pam Tillis, a country music icon. This experience underscores the genuine connections and camaraderie within the music community. Kyle also pays tribute to his biggest supporter, his mother, whom he affectionately calls his “Unsung Hero.” Her unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in Kyle’s success, and this heartfelt acknowledgment adds a personal and emotional layer to the episode.

This episode of the Jay Franze Show offers an in-depth look at Kyle Fields’ musical odyssey. From his humble beginnings in Greenup, Kentucky, to the bright lights of Nashville’s Broadway, Kyle’s journey is filled with passion, dedication, and unforgettable moments. His story is a testament to the power of music to transform lives and bring people together. Tune in to celebrate the people and experiences that have shaped Kyle’s remarkable career and be inspired by his unwavering commitment to his craft.