Jay Franze: Award-Winning Producer / Engineer (Phil Vasser, Keith Urban, The Wilkinsons)

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Jay Franze - Head Shot - AltIn this extraordinary episode of The Jay Franze Show, the tables are turned as the illustrious host, Jay Franze, enters the spotlight as the guest. Renowned industry expert guest host Reena Friedman Watts takes the reins, uncovering the captivating journey and invaluable insights of the multifaceted Jay Franze.

Jay, known for his illustrious career as a Producer/Engineer and a beacon in personal branding and artist development strategies, is recognized for his unparalleled contributions to the entertainment industry. With a career that spans legendary collaborations and groundbreaking projects, Jay shares riveting tales, exclusive stories, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that promise to captivate and inspire.

From engineering projects for icons like Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Williams Jr., and Dolly Parton to nurturing indie talents such as Matty McRee, Tristin Burke, and Allison Piccioni, Jay’s portfolio is a testament to his diverse expertise and unwavering passion for music.

Renowned studios like The Tracking Room, Oceanway, and Masterfonics have witnessed Jay’s mastery. At the same time, his collaborations with top-tier producers like Bob Bullock, Matt McClure, and Chas Sandford have left an indelible mark on the industry. His involvement with esteemed production companies and publishing giants further underscores his impact and influence within the music realm.

But Jay Franze’s accomplishments extend beyond the studio. His dedication to education, from teaching at prestigious audio schools globally to delivering guest lectures at renowned institutions, showcases his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

A distinguished member of esteemed industry organizations such as The Recording Academy – Producers and Engineers Wing and the Audio Engineering Society, Jay’s involvement and contributions have been integral to shaping the landscape of professional audio recording.

Adding authorship to his repertoire, Jay’s literary contributions have earned acclaim within the audio engineering community, with books like “Pro Tools A…Z,” “Mixing A…Z,” and his latest masterpiece, “The IDEAS of Leadership.”

Beyond his musical endeavors, Jay’s expertise extends to the transportation and security industry, where his leadership prowess shines, handling high-profile clientele and spearheading intricate projects.

But amidst his remarkable professional journey, Jay’s heart remains close to his family, residing near Cincinnati with his wife Jennifer, their three beautiful daughters, and their cherished pets.

Join Reena Friedman Watts as she delves into the life, career, and multifaceted achievements of Jay Franze, unveiling a narrative that transcends the ordinary and exemplifies the true essence of an industry luminary.

Get ready for an engaging, enlightening, and inspiring conversation that peels back the layers of one of the entertainment industry’s most dynamic figures—only on this special episode of The Jay Franze Show.

Show Information

  • Host: Reena Friedman Watts
  • Guest: Jay Franze
  • Recorded: November 27, 2023

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Joe Keiser: Critically Acclaimed Live Sound Engineers (Nickelback, ZZ Top, Keith Urban)

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Joe KeiserJoin Jay Franze on this electrifying episode of The Jay Franze Show, where he dives into live sound engineering with an industry titan: Joe Keiser. Based in the heart of Nashville, Joe brings decades of experience, stories, and invaluable insights.

Joe Keiser, currently Nickelback’s Front-of-House (FOH) engineer, boasts an illustrious career spanning over 26 years in both studio/broadcast and live sound. Having rubbed shoulders with ZZ Top, Keith Urban, and Sheryl Crow, Joe’s experiences on the road and in the studio offer a rare glimpse into the intricacies of crafting top-tier sound experiences.

Joining Joe is his long time mentor, Tony Cottrill, a multifaceted talent in live and studio  engineering, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge from his rich background as a musician, tour manager, and educator. With a teaching portfolio that includes prestigious institutions like Belmont University and The Blackbird Academy, Tony has honed the skills of aspiring audio engineers while simultaneously touring with a constellation of music legends.

In this episode, listeners will explore:

• Behind-the-scenes tales from the road with music icons and industry legends.
• The evolving landscape of live sound engineering and its intersection with technology.
• The art of balancing technical prowess with creative instincts in shaping unforgettable sonic experiences.

Tune in as Jay Franze delves deep into the art and science of sound engineering, unpacking the secrets and stories that have shaped the careers of these two remarkable guests. Whether you’re an audio enthusiast, an aspiring engineer, or simply curious about the magic behind exceptional sound, this episode is a must-listen!

So, don’t miss out! Join us for an exhilarating conversation that goes beyond the soundboard and into the pulse of the music industry.


Show Information

  • Host: Jay Franze
  • Guest: Joe Keiser and Tony Cottrill
  • Recorded: November 20, 2023

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Drew Ryder Smith: Award-Winning Singer / Songwriter / Producer (Merle Haggard, Randy Houser, John Schneider)

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Drew Ryder SmithIn this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we sit down with Drew Ryder Smith, a true luminary in the country music scene. Drew’s remarkable journey from growing up between the musical epicenters of Nashville and Muscle Shoals to becoming a sought-after country singer, songwriter, and producer is inspiring.

We dive into Drew’s early beginnings, where his mischievous voice led to a surprising career in radio at just 14 years old. His influences, including legends like Merle Haggard and John Prine, shaped his unique sound and songwriting prowess. Drew shares incredible stories from his career, such as opening for Merle Haggard at the iconic Ryman Auditorium and collaborating with some of Nashville’s brightest talents.

But Drew’s story doesn’t stop at the stage; he’s also a successful producer and senior mixing engineer at Gray Sound Recording LLC. He reveals the secrets behind his studio success and introduces us to “The Before You Record Course,” designed to empower aspiring artists for their first recording sessions.

Join us for a conversation with laughter, music, and Drew’s undeniable passion for dogs. You read that right: Drew’s love for our furry friends is as heartwarming as his music.

Show Information

  • Host: Jay Franze
  • Guest: Drew Ryder Smith
  • Recorded: September 25, 2023

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