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

Bob Bullock: Grammy-Winning Producer / Engineer / Educator (Shania Twain, George Strait, Reba McEntire)

We’re thrilled to have the legendary Bob Bullock in the studio in this edition. With a career that spans four decades, Bob’s journey from Los Angeles to Nashville is a masterclass in music production and engineering.

Starting under the guidance of legends like Humberto Gatica and Reggie Dozier, Bob’s expertise took him to the top. His impressive resume includes working with icons such as The Tubes, Art Garfunkel, and REO Speedwagon. And let’s not forget those fifty-plus gold and platinum albums he engineered while living in Nashville, featuring the likes of Shania Twain and George Strait.

But Bob’s not just about big names – he’s a champion of independent artists from around the globe. His recent productions have showcased rising stars’ talents as he continues redefining the industry landscape. His commitment doesn’t stop at the studio; Bob’s focus on artist development and education has made him an integral part of universities like Belmont and Troy.

Join us for a candid conversation about the music industry’s evolution, the power of education, and what it takes to bring out the best in every artist. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and its ever-changing beat.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Bob Bullock
• Recorded: August 28, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Bob Bullock: https://bobbullock.net/

Jim Cristaldi: Critically Acclaimed Producer / Engineer / Musician / Recording Artist (Matty McRee, Tristin Burke, Alan Layman)

Get ready to dive into the heart of Nashville’s music scene as we welcome a true maestro of sound, Jim Cristaldi, to The Jay Franze Show! In this electrifying episode, we sit down with the multi-talented producer/engineer, singer/songwriter who’s been setting the music industry abuzz with his expertise and passion.

As the owner of Cristaldi Music, one of Nashville’s most renowned production companies, Jim Cristaldi has been instrumental in shaping the sonic landscape of countless hit songs. Join us as he shares his insights into transforming a simple musical idea into a full-fledged hit song. We’ll explore his creative process, from the initial inspiration to the final notes that make your heart sing.

What goes on behind the scenes in the recording studio? Jim Cristaldi lifts the curtain and journeys through his experiences working with some of Nashville’s finest musicians. From the exhilarating highs to the challenges of bringing musical visions to life, you’ll get an insider’s look at the magic within those four walls.

Jim’s magic touch isn’t limited to established stars. He’s significantly impacted the careers of independent artists from across the country. Discover the stories of rising talents whose dreams turned into reality with Jim’s guidance. We’ll explore how he turns raw potential into polished, professional recordings that capture the essence of each artist’s unique voice.

Beyond his role as a producer and engineer, Jim Cristaldi is a singer/songwriter in his own right. We’ll explore how his musical journey influences his work behind the scenes. His commitment to authenticity shines through in every project he touches, creating a harmonious blend of technical expertise and heartfelt emotion.

Join us for an episode filled with insightful anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep dive into the world of music production and songwriting. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a budding artist, or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation with Jim Cristaldi will surely strike a chord.

Tune in to The Jay Franze Show as we sit down with Jim Cristaldi to explore the intersections of melody, technique, and the power of music to touch our souls. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and immersed in the magic of sound!

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Jim Cristaldi
• Recorded: August 21, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com