What ignites a lifelong passion for music? For country music recording artist Kyle Fields, it was a Christmas gift from his grandmother that set him on a remarkable trajectory. This week on the Jay Franze Show, join us as Kyle takes us from his musical roots in Greenup, Kentucky, through high school jam sessions and garage bands, to the culture shock of Nashville in his early 20s. Discover how Kyle evolved from learning guitar chords as a teenager to the unforgettable experience of opening for Kid Rock before 32,000 fans.

Kyle opens up about the inspiration behind his first album, sharing candid stories about creating an eclectic mix of songs that explore themes like drinking, breakups, opioid addiction, and heartfelt tributes to Kentucky and Conway Twitty. Learn about the lengthy and sometimes chaotic writing process that spanned both solo and co-writing sessions, and hear why Kyle treasures personal connections in songwriting over Nashville’s more structured co-writing schedules. He also highlights the instrumental elements that shape his sound, including the fiddle and steel guitar, and the unique recording process that spans from Jason Hale’s Salt Mind Studio in Kentucky to Nashville.

Finally, we get an insider’s look at the music industry as Kyle recounts his experiences at Farmland Studios and the shifting landscape of Music Row. Hear about the vibrant Broadway scene and the invaluable lessons learned from performing there, as well as the bittersweet moments of missing home. Kyle reflects on the thrill of significant career milestones and heartwarming stories of audience engagement and social media interactions. Plus, he shares a touching encounter with Pam Tillis and pays tribute to his biggest supporter—his mother, his “Unsung Hero.” Tune in to celebrate the people and moments that make Kyle’s musical journey so special.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

What happens when the decline of Detroit’s automotive industry fuels a surge in musical creativity? Join us as we sit down with rock and roll legend Mike Skill, founder of The Romantics, who takes us through the gritty yet exhilarating music scene of Detroit in the 70s. From working automotive industry jobs to fund his passion to rehearsing in old storefronts, Mike shares how the communal spirit among musicians and the influence of British rock bands shaped a city resilient in its artistic pursuits.

Discover the origins of The Romantics and how they emerged from the punk and new wave scenes of New York, LA, and London. Mike discusses the transition from the era of iconic lead singers to bands creating their own unique sounds and styles. Hear about the band’s early performances, their sharp Motown-inspired look, and the challenges they faced while recording their first two albums in a rapidly evolving music landscape. You’ll get an insider’s view on how the scene influenced their image and the creative processes behind their signature hits.

Finally, you’ll hear about the hit songs “Talking in Your Sleep” and “What I Like About You,” and journey through the relentless push from management to produce new records. Mike recounts the impact of the 1967 Detroit Riots on the local community and the creation of the song “67 Riot,” capturing the essence of that era through music. This episode is packed with captivating stories, personal anecdotes, and a vivid portrayal of the music industry’s highs and lows. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with rock legend Mike Skill on the Jay Franze show!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Mike Skill: https://www.mikeskill.com/

Avery Glenn Crabtree: Critically Acclaimed Recording Artist

What if your favorite song could completely change the vibe of an entire room? This episode we take you backstage with country music recording artist Avery Glenn Crabtree, who reveals the secrets behind his powerful performances. From tapping into deep emotions for every song, whether it’s sad, sexy, or aggressive, to his preference for deep cuts over popular tracks, you’ll get an inside look at what makes Avery an unforgettable frontman. Discover the special camaraderie he shares with his band and learn how his bluegrass background, instilled by his father, shapes his musical journey.

Ever wondered how musicians can control and elevate the energy in a honky-tonk setting? Avery shares his firsthand experience on engaging with live audiences, especially by catering to the preferences of women in the crowd, and the art of keeping the vibe high. The discussion goes beyond just setlists and notes the flexibility of seasoned musicians to adapt on-the-fly, ensuring every performance is fresh and memorable. Learn about the evolving live music scene, the decline of house bands, and the strategies musicians use to create an interactive experience that keeps fans coming back.

Navigating the intricate relationships within the music industry is no small feat, and Avery opens up about the challenges and triumphs of collaborating with venue owners and promoting shows in a digital age. Hear about his personal struggles with maintaining a social media presence while balancing family life, and the invaluable lessons learned from his musical influences ranging from bluegrass and gospel to Elvis and Motown. This episode also features touching anecdotes that highlight the power of music to move people, including a story about a gospel song that reduced a listener to tears. Tune in for heartfelt stories, industry insights, and an exclusive segment celebrating the unsung heroes who support artists behind the scenes.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Avery Glenn Crabtree
• Recorded: June 12, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com