What if the journey to sobriety could ignite a transformative artistic path? Join us as Blake Tyler, a rising star in country music, unveils the intimate and often tumultuous experiences that shape his sound. Blake opens up about his battle with addiction, inspired by a deep commitment to his family, and how this personal decision led to a poignant cover of “Pray All the Way Home.” He shares heartfelt stories of his childhood, particularly the impact of his parents’ separation and a challenging dynamic with his stepfather, both of which influenced his latest track, “Blood Ain’t Thick.”

Blake’s path from a sales career to the bustling Nashville music scene is a testament to the power of connections. By teaming up with guitarist Joe Jordan and industry professionals like Matt McClure and Alex Kidd, he transformed his passion into a thriving career. Discover the backstage tales of collaboration, and how serendipitous encounters and strategic partnerships have paved the way for his artistic growth. Blake’s candid reflections reveal the intricacies of writing songs and performing live, offering a glimpse into the dedication required to succeed in the music industry.

Performing live can be daunting, but Blake’s insights on overcoming stage nerves and the importance of a supportive band are invaluable. With memorable anecdotes of encounters with stars like Chase Matthew and Bailey Zimmerman, Blake paints a vivid picture of the highs, lows, and humorous mishaps that come with the territory. As we explore the impact of social media, Blake emphasizes the importance of consistency and connection in building an audience of over 600,000 followers. His story is a compelling reminder of how perseverance, adaptability, and a genuine connection with fans can carve a successful path in today’s competitive music world.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Blake Tyler: https://www.blaketylermusic.com/

Ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain of a tribute band that channels the spirit of a country superstar? Meet Jim and Jessica from Carried Away, the riveting Carrie Underwood tribute band that has taken the Midwest by storm from their strategic home base in Cincinnati, Ohio. As a former American Idol contestant at just 16, Jessica’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and her dedication to powerhouse performances is palpable. Her story is a testament to the transformation from original music to the world of tribute bands, where authenticity and connection with fans reign supreme.

Join us as we uncover the profound shift from crafting original melodies to mastering covers, a change spurred by a seemingly negative comment that turned into a lucrative venture. The leap into tribute bands opened doors for creative growth and marketability, pushing the band members to expand their musical repertoire and hone their skills across various styles. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, with an emphasis on maintaining joy and fulfillment in their performances amidst the competitive landscape of the music industry.

The episode isn’t complete without acknowledging the often unrecognized champions who have supported this musical journey. Discover how the encouragement from local figures like Joe Ellen and Mike Whetstone of Cincy Local Music has propelled Carried Away from intimate open mic nights to major venues. As we wrap up, we extend heartfelt gratitude to Jim and Jessica for sharing their insights, and to our listeners for their unwavering support. Don’t forget to catch all the details and access exclusive content by visiting jayfranze/episode115, and tune in next week for another exciting episode of The Jay Franze Show.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Carrie’d Away: https://carriedawaytribute.com/

Unlock the secrets behind High Mountain Breezes’ latest musical masterpiece, “Contributions,” with industry insiders Bruce Tarletski and Bob Bullock. Discover how this daring project pays homage to classic hits from the 50s to the 80s while boldly stepping into new territory with original tracks. Bruce reveals the creative alchemy that goes into selecting timeless songs and incorporating fresh elements like brass, while Bob compares the art of music production to directing a film, highlighting the meticulous orchestration needed to bring each song to life.

This episode is a celebration of musical collaboration, where family ties and artistic legacies intertwine to create something truly special. Listen to stories about Bruce’s cousin, an extraordinary trumpet player, and learn how seasoned talents like Eddie Bayers and Vicki Hampton contribute to this harmonious endeavor. We delve into the project’s philanthropic angle, supporting charitable causes like the Harry Chapin Foundation, all while allowing each artist to leave their unique imprint on the music.

Embark on a journey through the evolution of music production technology with us, from the immersive charm of vinyl to the precision of mastering tracks for streaming platforms. We explore the balance between analog warmth and digital clarity, emphasizing the unbreakable bonds of friendship and creativity that drive High Mountain Breezes forward. Tune in to understand how these connections shape not only the sound but the soul of “Contributions,” making it a resonant experience for both artists and listeners alike.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• High Mountain Breezes: https://www.highmountainbreezes.com/