Jay Franze: Award-Winning Producer / Engineer / Artist Development Strategist (Phil Vasser, Keith Urban, The Wilkinsons)

In this extraordinary episode of The Jay Franze Show, the tables are turned as the illustrious host, Jay Franze, enters the spotlight as the guest. Renowned industry expert guest host Reena Friedman Watts takes the reins, uncovering the captivating journey and invaluable insights of the multifaceted Jay Franze.

Jay, known for his illustrious career as a Producer/Engineer and a beacon in personal branding and artist development strategies, is recognized for his unparalleled contributions to the entertainment industry. With a career that spans legendary collaborations and groundbreaking projects, Jay shares riveting tales, exclusive stories, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that promise to captivate and inspire.

From engineering projects for icons like Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Williams Jr., and Dolly Parton to nurturing indie talents such as Matty McRee, Tristin Burke, and Allison Piccioni, Jay’s portfolio is a testament to his diverse expertise and unwavering passion for music.

Renowned studios like The Tracking Room, Oceanway, and Masterfonics have witnessed Jay’s mastery. At the same time, his collaborations with top-tier producers like Bob Bullock, Matt McClure, and Chas Sandford have left an indelible mark on the industry. His involvement with esteemed production companies and publishing giants further underscores his impact and influence within the music realm.

But Jay Franze’s accomplishments extend beyond the studio. His dedication to education, from teaching at prestigious audio schools globally to delivering guest lectures at renowned institutions, showcases his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent.

A distinguished member of esteemed industry organizations such as The Recording Academy – Producers and Engineers Wing and the Audio Engineering Society, Jay’s involvement and contributions have been integral to shaping the landscape of professional audio recording.

Adding authorship to his repertoire, Jay’s literary contributions have earned acclaim within the audio engineering community, with books like “Pro Tools A…Z,” “Mixing A…Z,” and his latest masterpiece, “The IDEAS of Leadership.”

Beyond his musical endeavors, Jay’s expertise extends to the transportation and security industry, where his leadership prowess shines, handling high-profile clientele and spearheading intricate projects.

But amidst his remarkable professional journey, Jay’s heart remains close to his family, residing near Cincinnati with his wife Jennifer, their three beautiful daughters, and their cherished pets.

Join Reena Friedman Watts as she delves into the life, career, and multifaceted achievements of Jay Franze, unveiling a narrative that transcends the ordinary and exemplifies the true essence of an industry luminary.

Get ready for an engaging, enlightening, and inspiring conversation that peels back the layers of one of the entertainment industry’s most dynamic figures—only on this special episode of The Jay Franze Show.

Show Information

• Host: Reena Friedman Watts
• Guest: Jay Franze
• Recorded: November 27, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Better Call Daddy: https://bettercalldaddy.com

John Saylor: Grammy-Winning Producer / Engineer (George Jones, Megadeth, Mark Knopfler)

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we dive into audio engineering with a true industry veteran, John Saylor. With over 25 years of experience in professional audio, John’s track record speaks for itself. He’s done everything from working with legends like Charley Pride and George Jones to collaborating with heavy hitters like Megadeth and Mark Knopfler.

But John’s expertise doesn’t stop at the studio door. He’s not just an engineer; he’s a Grammy-winning producer passionate about the craft. Join us as we explore his journey from the Nashville music scene to earning a Grammy for Best Folk Album with “Beautiful Dreamer: The Songs of Stephen Foster.”

We’ll uncover the secrets behind his ability to work quickly and confidently with various artists, musicians, and producers. Whether you’re an aspiring audio engineer or a music enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this candid conversation with a true recording industry expert.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: John Saylor
• Recorded: September 18, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Frenklin Recording: https://franklinrecording.com/

Tom Harding: Award-Winning Producer / Engineer (BB King, Etta James, Buddy Guy)

In this episode of The Jay Franze Show, we’re joined by the incredibly talented and accomplished music producer and engineer Tom Harding. From humble beginnings in Utah to becoming a sought-after figure in the music industry, Tom’s journey is inspiring.

Tom’s passion for music and recording led him on a remarkable path. Growing up in a military family, he ventured from college to Saudi Arabia and back, driven by the desire to become a recording engineer. His choice to attend Memphis State University set the stage for an incredible career.

During his time at MTSU, Tom’s internship at Elektra Records opened doors he could have never imagined. A chance encounter led him to an assistant’s job at a new sound studio, where he honed his skills and learned from industry legends. Tom’s dedication and talent eventually earned him the role of the first engineer.
As Tom shares his story, we dive into the pivotal moments that defined his career. From producing albums for artists like BB King, Etta James, Buddy Guy, and Cissy Houston to engineering for ZZ Top, Tom’s contributions to the music world are genuinely remarkable.

We’ll also explore the birth of Tombstone Recording, the studio he co-founded and transformed into a hub for creativity. This studio has been the birthplace of countless hits and hosted renowned artists like Burt Bacharach, Brooks & Dunn, and Pam Tillis.

Join us as we delve into the life and career of Tom Harding, a music producer and engineer whose dedication, passion, and talent have left an indelible mark on the music industry. You won’t want to miss this fascinating episode filled with stories from behind the mixing console and insights into the magic of music production. Tune in now!

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Tom Harding
• Recorded: September 11, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com