Garrett Landers: Critically Acclaimed Musician (Britney’s Lipstick, IP6)

Strap in for a rollercoaster ride with the electrifying Garrett Landers, whose guitar riffs are as epic as his stories. We kick off with a laugh or two as Garrett spills the beans on his unexpected musical voyage, ignited by a mistaken upright bass and the legendary Sting. From his self-taught riffs to the thrill of his first band, it’s a tale of rock ambition met with the rhythmic heartbeats of family encouragement and the quirky twists of fate that catapulted him onto the stage.

Take a seat at the edge of your seat while Garrett takes you on a wild ride through his most memorable gigs. From battling the sweltering heat with chapstick-as-sunscreen to taking cues from a lone audience member on treble settings, these are the moments that musicians live for. But it’s not all about the notes; Garrett’s anecdotes reveal the magical connection between performer and crowd, inspired by icons like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eddie Van Halen, and how that shared energy transforms a gig into something you just can’t forget.

Finally, get the insider scoop on the high-octane world of corporate bands and their battles that rival any rockstar’s dream. You’ll be hanging on every word as I recount our ascent to the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stage—complete with tales of rehearsal drama, stage fright, and the blood, sweat, and tears it took to get there. And because the devil is in the details, we’ll top off with a nod to the unsung heroes of live music—the sound people—whose magic fingers turn chaos into concert hall clarity. Join us for a symphony of stories that’ll have you feeling like you’re right there in the mosh pit with us.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Garrett Landers
• Recorded: April 17, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Britney’s Lipstick: https://www.britneyslipstick.com/

James Rissacher: Critically Acclaimed Musician / Educator

As the sun casts its golden hue over Lake George, Jay’s joined by James Rissacher, the ‘fishing musician,’ who weaves an enchanting melody among the lapping waves. Picture this: a skillful guitarist, a serene lake, and a boat – it’s the setting where James shares his musical journey, from the disciplined halls of SUNY Fredonia to first chair classical guitarist, and beyond. His story of overcoming a nail accident that almost silenced his strings is a testament to the resilience embedded in the heart of every dedicated artist.

Prepare yourself for a symphony of insights as James and Jay explore the rigorous yet rewarding world of musical preparation and collaboration. They break down the distinct nuances of classical precision, jazz improvisation, and the soulful twang of country music, providing listeners with a backstage pass into the artistry that shapes a musician’s growth. The conversation also casts a spotlight on the significance of pure skill over flashy gear, underscoring the profound impact of a musician’s personal flair on their performance.

Finally, they share an intimate look at the dynamic between performer and venue, discussing the unique challenges and unexpected accompaniments that nature provides when playing outdoors. Whether it’s adapting to the acoustic whims of diverse settings or the personal adjustments made when using in-ear monitors, James’s experiences reveal the adaptability and passion necessary for captivating live performances. So settle in, lend your ears, and let the harmony of perseverance, skill, and the love for music resonate through this episode.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: James Rissacher
• Recorded: April 15, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• James Rissacher: http://jamesrissacher.com/

Jason Hale: Critically Acclaimed Touring Musician / Studio Owner (Doug Stone, Ronnie Bowman, Daryle Singletary)

Jay Franze sits down with Jason Hale, a seasoned touring musician whose roots run deep in the heart of Kentucky. Hailing from Isonville, a town nestled between the hometowns of country legends Keith Whitley and Ricky Skaggs, Jason’s journey through music spans an impressive three decades.

From strumming his first chords at age 10 to joining local bands at 12, Jason’s passion for music ignited early. By 15, he was already part of a professional regional band, and in 2005, he received his first national artist call from Ronnie Bowman.

Throughout his career, Jason has shared the stage and studio with many talented artists, including Doug Stone, Ronnie Bowman, Katrina Elam, and Daryle Singletary, to name a few. When not captivating audiences with his bass skills, Jason runs a recording studio, offering his expertise in remote bass overdubs, recording, and mixing for artists and bands alike. Plus, he’s been tuning pianos since 2015 – talk about a multi-talented musician!

Join us as Jason takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable journey, from playing iconic venues like Heinz Field and the Las Vegas House of Blues touring across 48 states, France, and Canada. He’s amassed a collection of unforgettable experiences, including recording sessions with Daryle Singletary’s “Country Roads” and Nathan & Chesi Arnett’s “Too Far Gone” EP.

With his trusty Sadowsky and Fender basses, Line 6 Variax, and a classic Martin D18V in hand, Jason’s gear reflects his dedication to his craft. Jason’s journey is extraordinary, from the largest crowd of 20k at Country Jam in Grand Junction to fulfilling his dream of opening for Merle Haggard.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Tyler Schwanke
• Recorded: February 21, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com