Ever wondered how starting with melodies rather than lyrics can transform your songwriting? Join us for an inspiring conversation with singer-songwriter Mike Errico, where he reveals how this approach leads to surreal and unexpected lyrical content. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how different instruments and tunings can not only ignite creativity but also shape the narrative arc of a song in fascinating ways.

What makes a song unforgettable? We break it down by analyzing hits from Kelly Clarkson and Radiohead, uncovering the secret sauce behind structures that keep listeners hooked. From understanding the balance between broad appeal and intricate compositions to practical advice for budding songwriters, this episode is a goldmine of insights. Chart your favorite songs and discover the underlying techniques that make them so engaging.

Collaboration is the cornerstone of great music, and we discuss how setting aside personal ego can lead to magical co-writing experiences. Through anecdotes and real-life examples, we highlight the power of humor and hooks in songwriting. Plus, hear hilarious and surprising tales of song placements in TV and film that reveal how context can completely change a song’s meaning. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone passionate about the art and craft of songwriting.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Mike Errico: https://errico.com
• Daylight (Live video) https://youtu.be/ivMX6flUrHE
• Daylight (Produced) https://mikeerrico.bandcamp.com/track/daylight-5

What if you discovered that some of the most heartfelt songs come from the most unexpected places? Join us as we uncover the incredible journey of songwriter Bruce Tarletsky and his Nashville supergroup, High Mountain Breezes. Bruce, who took up songwriting later in life, found inspiration in a loyal group of session musicians. With producer Bob Bullock by his side, Bruce created a unique musical space that emphasizes friendship, collaboration, and personal expression. Together, they’ve crafted a legacy that goes far beyond the notes on a page.

Ever wondered how a classic like “Bridge Over Troubled Water” could be reimagined to top charts in Europe? Bruce and his team did just that, with Melissa Duvall, Gwen Sebastian, and Heather Beckett bringing a fresh, innovative rendition to life. They dive into the creative process behind this and other hits, revealing how real-life experiences and co-writing shape their music. With insights from Michael Spriggs and contributions from songwriters like Jan Buckingham and Monty Lane Allen, they discuss the profound impact of collaboration on their success.

From the grief-stricken “Daddy’s Margarita Rose” to the poignant “Stars in Lahaina Tonight,” they explore the emotional depth that fuels their music. Hear stories of how personal loss transforms into powerful lyrics and learn timeless advice from legends like John Denver. They wrap up by highlighting the unsung heroes behind the scenes, including Deborah’s soulful touch on “Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” and Dustin’s marketing prowess. Tune in to discover the heart and soul of High Mountain Breezes and the team that makes it all possible.

Contributing HMB Players

• Bruce Tarletsky – Founder, Songwriter
• Monty Lane Allen – Player, Artist, Songwriter
• Bob Bullock – Producer/Engineer
• Chris Leuzinger – Musician, Songwriter
• Michael Spriggs – Musician
• Duncan Mullins – Musician
• Catherine Marx – Musician
• Tim Crouch – Musician
• Gwen Sebastian – Artist
• Darrell Cole – Artist, Songwriter
• Jan Buckingham – Songwriter
• Janie West – Song Pitch Mentor
• Mark Beckett – Musician
• Jermaine Mondine – Musician
• Dustin Soper – Marketing, Branding
• Ed Gertler – Digital Distribution
• Kyle Hershman – Engineer
• Chris Latham – Producer, Engineer
• Sam Levine – Musician
• Blair Masters – Musician
• Amanda Raye – Artist
• Minnie Murphy – Artist
• Mark Nicolosi – Videographer
• Gary Graziano – Musician
• Conrad Reeder – Artist, Songwriter
• Jimmy Mattingly – Musician

Friends of the HMB

• Deborah Allen, Artist
• Benita Hill, Artist
• Robert Bailey, Artist
• Vicki Hampton, Artist
• Larry Chaney, Producer
• Jay Franze, Media Personality

Links

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

Nismah Osman: Critically Acclaimed Songwriter / Music Producer (Temptation Island, Dancing with the Stars, OWN)

Nismah, a seasoned songwriter, music producer, and visionary entrepreneur from Western Massachusetts, brings fresh air to the traditional music industry. With a 17-year career adorned with over 200 sync licensing placements in major films and TV shows like Love is Blind, Dancing with the Stars, and NASCAR, Nismah is a trailblazer in the industry.

In this episode, Nismah sits down with Jay Franze to share her unique journey and insights into helping aspiring musicians turn their passion into a sustainable and fulfilling career. As a vocal advocate for thinking outside the box, Nismah focuses on strategies that increase income and preserve the artistic spirit that often gets overshadowed by conventional promotional methods.

Key Discussion Points:

• Breaking Free from Conventional Music Marketing: Nismah delves into the pitfalls of traditional promotional strategies and offers alternative approaches that empower musicians to stand out in a crowded market.
• Building Scalable and Sustainable Systems: Learn from Nismah’s experience as she guides musicians on creating systems that enhance their income and allow them to concentrate on what they do best – making music.
• Outsourcing and Creative Empowerment: Discover the art of harnessing your creative superpower and strategically outsourcing non-creative tasks, freeing up valuable time for artists to focus on their craft without burnout.

Nismah’s Achievements:

• 200+ sync licensing placements in notable films and TV shows.
• She studied songwriting techniques with pop legend Kara DioGuardi.
• She has taught songwriting and music business at Berklee College of Music.

Join Jay Franze and Nismah Osman for an engaging conversation that goes beyond the music industry norms. Uncover the secrets to a fulfilling and sustainable creative career, and get ready to be inspired by Nismah’s innovative approach to music, business, and life.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Nismah Osman
• Recorded: February 5, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Nismah Osman: https://www.nismahosman.com/

Affiliate Links

• Nismah Osman: All That I Am (CD): https://amzn.to/49va8aX
• Nismah Osman: Wish I Was Yours (CD): https://amzn.to/49yYBXY