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/

Ever wondered what it’s like to get a backstage pass to the heart of the country music scene? Billie Jo Jones, an emerging talent with a heartfelt connection to traditional country music, takes us on an unforgettable journey. From her bustling visit to Nashville filled with business meetings and live performances to her touching experience at the Christmas for Kids event, Billie Jo shares anecdotes about her interactions with fans and legends alike. She even describes meeting Nancy Jones, widow of the iconic George Jones, and the excitement of recording her second album soon. This episode is brimming with stories of meaningful connections and the joyous purpose behind giving back to those in need.

The magic of songwriting is a central theme as Billie Jo talks about her creative process and the crucial role Nashville’s vibrant music community plays in it. She highlights how collaborating with talented songwriters like Bobby E Boyd helps overcome creative blocks, embracing influences from artists like Lainey Wilson along the way. Billie Jo opens up about the challenges and growth that come with recording covers, especially holiday classics, and the importance of a supportive team that shares her vision. Through her stories, listeners will gain insights into the balance of staying true to artistic instincts while remaining open to constructive criticism.

Listeners are in for a treat as Billie Jo discusses her journey in the music industry and her future aspirations. From upcoming television projects and collaborations with talents like Billy Bob Thornton to the joy of building a music room brimming with accolades, Billie Jo’s enthusiasm is infectious. She shares her experiences attending rodeo events and plans for future performances, including an exciting full band show in Las Vegas. With humor and nostalgia, this episode captures the camaraderie and passion that fuel the music and entertainment world, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating what Billie Jo Jones will achieve next.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Billie Jo Jones: https://www.billiejomusic.com/