What would it be like to stand on the same stage as country music legends and feel the echoes of their songs? Join us for an intimate conversation with the wonderfully talented Billie Jo Jones, who shares her incredible journey from singing hymns in church at nine to headlining sold-out stadiums. Raised by her grandparents, Billie Jo’s narrative is deeply woven with family bonds and musical legacies. Her story starts at home but spans iconic venues like Billy Bob’s Texas, where singing a cappella amid the hum of a packed crowd brings both the thrill and the challenge of being center stage.

Billie Jo opens up about the heart and hustle behind her chart-topping success. From creating anthems of empowerment to orchestrating engaging music videos in Nashville, she reveals the intricacies of collaborating with songwriters and producers who share her vision. She paints a picture of life on the road, the dedication required for radio tours, and the sweet reward of hearing her songs grace the airwaves. Her enthusiasm for bringing fresh energy to her music and performances is infectious, and her insights into the industry offer both inspiration and practical advice for aspiring artists.

Throughout her career, Billie Jo has been influenced by the strong women who paved the way in country music, and she honors them by sharing the stage with legends like the Oak Ridge Boys. Our conversation touches on the camaraderie and mentorship that have shaped her path, reflecting on moments like the humbling experience of being compared to greats like Miranda Lambert. With warmth and candidness, Billie Jo invites us to share in her memories, dreams, and the ever-present support of her grandparents, making this episode a heartfelt tribute to resilience and the timeless power of country music.

Links

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

Singer-songwriter Will Wesley joins us for a heartfelt conversation that sheds light on the emotional journey behind his latest single, “12 O’Clock in Texas.” Through a poignant personal story, Will opens up about his late brother Daniel’s influence on his life and music, revealing how his loss became a powerful source of inspiration. Our discussion is an exploration of grief, healing, and the transformative power of music, as Will shares how a mysterious gust of wind led him to pen the song’s first draft, channeling his emotions into a piece that resonates with listeners on a deep level.

The episode also delves into the nuts and bolts of music production and collaboration, as Will recounts the journey with producer Phil Chandler and audio engineer Tyler Hansen. Capturing the essence of the song meant recording on the road, adapting to unexpected challenges like rain during filming, and bringing together talented musicians to craft a unique sound. The artistic choices and teamwork involved in creating “12 O’Clock in Texas” are a testament to the dedication and passion that go into producing an emotionally charged track.

Completing the artistic vision was the creation of the music video, where I had the pleasure of collaborating with director Jordan. Together, we blended visual storytelling with the music’s emotional depth, highlighting the role of creativity in enhancing a song’s narrative. From location scouting to manipulating film speed for added emotional tones, the video was a labor of love that underscores the importance of collaboration in bringing a project to life. Join us for this inspiring episode as we celebrate the union of personal tragedy and artistic triumph.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Will Wesley: https://www.willwesleymusic.com/

Singer, songwriter, and entertainer John Michael Ferrari graces our show, offering an inspiring look into his musical journey. From snagging his first award at the Las Vegas Music Awards to climbing the national charts, John’s story is packed with milestones that have opened doors throughout the music industry. Together, we uncover the significance of these achievements and the crucial role of collaboration with his producer, Pepper, who has been a guiding force in his creative process, especially during his recording sessions in Nashville.

We invite you to explore John’s creative world, where inspiration often feels like a divine gift. John shares how he taps into his higher self to craft lyrics and melodies, emphasizing the importance of a distraction-free environment. With Pepper’s invaluable input, the fusion of country, pop, and Broadway influences in his music becomes a recipe for chart success. The vibrant entertainment scene of Las Vegas has deeply influenced his aspirations, drawing from legendary performers like Louis Prima to enhance his unique style.

John also opens up about his evolution as a Vegas performer and his journey through the entertainment industry’s ups and downs. From honing his craft in small venues to learning resilience in the stand-up comedy world, John’s narrative is a testament to perseverance. Engaging audiences with energy and authentic connection remains a cornerstone of his performances. He shares the philosophy that treating everyone in the crowd as friends can transform the experience, ensuring audiences leave feeling entertained and uplifted.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• John Michael Ferrari: https://johnmichaelferrari.com/