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In this electrifying episode of The Jay Franze Show, we delve into the high-energy world of VIP experiences, and the art of merchandising with the exceptional Kelly Murray. As a Tour Merchandise/VIP Manager for renowned acts like Jason Bonham, The Happy Fits, Icon For Hire, Hoodie Allen, Apocalyptica, and Awake At Last, Kelly brings firsthand experience and insider stories.
Join host Jay Franze as he uncovers Kelly's fascinating journey through the music industry, from her early days at The Masquerade and CID Entertainment/Future Beat to her pivotal role as a Production Assistant at Live Nation Entertainment. Kelly shares key moments, challenges, and triumphs from her diverse career, providing a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes magic that makes live concerts and VIP experiences unforgettable.
With a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Minnesota in Public Relations and Advertising, Kelly has honed a unique skill set that bridges the gap between creative expression and strategic business acumen. Listeners can expect to gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of managing VIP programs, coordinating merchandise for top-tier artists, and the pivotal role of production assistants in shaping the live music experience.
From navigating the fast-paced demands of tours to fostering connections between artists and their dedicated fan bases, Kelly Murray's expertise shines through, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the multifaceted world beyond the stage.

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• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

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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.

Links

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

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Strap in for a rollercoaster ride with the electrifying Garrett Landers, whose guitar riffs are as epic as his stories. We kick off with a laugh or two as Garrett spills the beans on his unexpected musical voyage, ignited by a mistaken upright bass and the legendary Sting. From his self-taught riffs to the thrill of his first band, it's a tale of rock ambition met with the rhythmic heartbeats of family encouragement and the quirky twists of fate that catapulted him onto the stage.
Take a seat at the edge of your seat while Garrett takes you on a wild ride through his most memorable gigs. From battling the sweltering heat with chapstick-as-sunscreen to taking cues from a lone audience member on treble settings, these are the moments that musicians live for. But it's not all about the notes; Garrett's anecdotes reveal the magical connection between performer and crowd, inspired by icons like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eddie Van Halen, and how that shared energy transforms a gig into something you just can't forget.
Finally, get the insider scoop on the high-octane world of corporate bands and their battles that rival any rockstar's dream. You'll be hanging on every word as I recount our ascent to the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stage—complete with tales of rehearsal drama, stage fright, and the blood, sweat, and tears it took to get there. And because the devil is in the details, we'll top off with a nod to the unsung heroes of live music—the sound people—whose magic fingers turn chaos into concert hall clarity. Join us for a symphony of stories that'll have you feeling like you're right there in the mosh pit with us.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Britney's Lipstick: https://www.britneyslipstick.com/

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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/

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Step behind the curtain of the live music scene with Jay Franze and the legendary sound mixer Bruce Reiter from Five Finger Death Punch. In a rare conversation, Bruce unveils his sonic journey, detailing his rise from modest beginnings to orchestrating the thunderous soundscapes for arena rock giants. He credits early mentors like Dave Natale for honing his craft, and offers an intimate look at the dynamics within the band, from Zoltan Bathory's strategic vision to Ivan Moody's heartfelt fan connections. It's a foray into the often-unseen emotional labor of sound engineering, revealing how Bruce's meticulous touch amplifies the raw exchange between artists and audiences.
When the stage lights blaze and the crowd roars, the unsung heroes at the sound console ensure every chord strikes true. This episode pulls back the festival curtain, highlighting the symphony of challenges and triumphs that sound engineers like Bruce Reitr face. From the seamless orchestration of the setup to the magic of virtual soundchecks, step into the collaborative world that transforms musical chaos into harmony. Learn how the subtlest variables, such as audience attire or the warmth they radiate, can sway the soundscape. Bruce's narrative underscores the vital, yet often invisible, camaraderie among the touring crew, who together, bring the concert experience to life night after night.
Join us as Bruce Reiter shares a masterclass in live sound mixing, from the comfort of his home studio to the electric energy of stadium shows. Discover the meticulous preparation that defines a touring sound engineer's life and the technological tools, like Smaart RTA, that ensure performances resonate with unfailing clarity. Bruce serves up an array of sound mixing techniques and tips for music connoisseurs and aspiring mixers alike, emphasizing the craft's blend of art and science. His commitment to continuous learning and mentorship shines through, offering valuable insights into an industry where precision meets passion, and every live show is an opportunity to reach sonic perfection.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

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