Jason Chapin takes us behind the curtain of his father’s most enduring musical legacy. As the 50th anniversary of “Cats in the Cradle” approaches, Jason reveals the surprising true origins of the iconic song – a poem written by his mother Sandy about the distant relationship she observed between her first husband and his father.

What began as an observation of family dysfunction would eventually become Harry Chapin’s signature hit, though not without skepticism. “My mother told my father there’s no way this is gonna be a single,” Jason shares. “Back then, hit songs were not about fathers and sons.” Against all expectations, the song climbed to number one, cementing its place in music history.

The discussion weaves through Harry’s multifaceted career, from his early days making Oscar-nominated documentaries to his late-blooming music career at age 30. Jason offers fascinating glimpses into his father’s creative process, his relentless work ethic that produced 11 albums in just 10 years, and his equal dedication to humanitarian causes. We learn how Harry co-founded Why Hunger in 1975, performed approximately 100 benefit concerts annually, and became such a persistent presence lobbying Congress that lawmakers would try to avoid him – leading Harry to famously corner them in Capitol Building restrooms.

This episode paints a portrait of an artist deeply committed not just to his craft, but to making tangible change in the world. Jason explains how his father’s legacy continues through the new documentary “Harry Chapin: Cats in the Cradle 50th Anniversary,” featuring interviews with Billy Joel, Judy Collins, Whitfield Crane from Ugly Kid Joe, and many others who’ve been touched by his father’s music.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Harry Chapin or discovering his work for the first time, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how one song can transcend generations, and how an artist’s impact can extend far beyond their music. As Harry’s credo reminds us: “When in doubt, do something.”

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Harry Chapin – Documentary: https://www.catsinthecradle50years.org/

John Wayne S. III: Critically Acclaimed Producer / Director / Writer (Red All Over, Ebony Hustle, Plugged)

Esteemed filmmaker and visionary storyteller John Wayne S. III, affectionately known as JW, takes center stage to unravel the mysteries behind crafting compelling narratives that leave an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.

Jay Franze delves into JW’s illustrious entertainment industry career spanning over two decades, from his humble beginnings as a production assistant on George Tillman’s “Scenes for the Soul” to his meteoric rise as a producer, director, and writer, JW shares the pivotal moments and lessons learned along his journey.

You will be captivated by JW’s unique blend of film and music expertise, honed through collaborations with Grammy-nominated producer Steve “Silk” Hurley and managing international A&R teams. Discover how JW’s diverse experiences have shaped his approach to storytelling, seamlessly blending the worlds of music and film to create immersive narratives that resonate on a universal level.

JW offers invaluable insights into his creative process, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of producing over 200 music videos for renowned artists and bringing five feature films to life, including “Red All Over” and “Ebony Hustle.” From navigating the complexities of production to staying true to his vision, JW’s unwavering commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of his work.

JW shares his philosophy on pushing creative boundaries, embracing new technologies, and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned professional, or simply a lover of great storytelling, this episode promises to leave you enlightened and eager to embark on your creative journey.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: John Wayne S. III
• Recorded: February 26, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

Affiliate Links

• John Wayne S. III: Ebony Hustle: https://amzn.to/3TSvN6U
• John Wayne S. III: Ebony Hustle 2: Ballistic Protection: https://amzn.to/4alPc7k
• John Wayne S. III: Red All Over: https://amzn.to/3vKek8G

Mollie Leivars: Award-Winning Writer / Director / Filmmaker (For The Love of Eve, Washed Out, Jack)

On this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we welcome Mollie Leivars, an award-winning filmmaker and the founder of Spirit Productions. Join us as we delve into Mollie’s remarkable journey from a bullied teen to a successful producer and director.

Mollie opens up about her experiences growing up and how she used her experiences to find solace and creativity in the world of filmmaking. She shares her early inspirations and the driving forces that have led her to where she is today.

We also discuss Mollie’s latest film, For the Love of Eve. Mollie takes us behind the scenes and shares the creative process behind the movie, from the initial concept to the final product. She talks about the challenges she faced during production and the critical lessons she learned along the way.

In this in-depth interview, Mollie also shares her thoughts on the film industry and the role of women in the entertainment industry. She provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by women in the industry and the importance of mentorship and support.

This episode of The Jay Franze Show is a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers and anyone interested in the world of entertainment. Mollie’s inspiring story and insightful commentary on the industry provide valuable lessons and perspectives for anyone looking to pursue a career in filmmaking.

So, grab your popcorn and get ready to learn all about the incredible journey of Mollie Leivars, from bullied teen to award-winning filmmaker. Tune in to The Jay Franze Show and be inspired by one of our time’s most talented and successful filmmakers.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Mollie Leivars
• Recorded: February 5, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Spirit Production Company: https://spiritproductioncompany.co.uk/
• For the Love of Eve (Trailer): https://youtu.be/XgM7nusjssY
• Jack (Short Film): https://youtu.be/FXXW0W0CX4k
• Brooke (Short Film): https://youtu.be/bWxvzx8Ku40
• Zoe (Short Film): https://youtu.be/0LI4p6S1bBg
• Gateway: https://youtu.be/XzC0pCNaCb0