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When Stephanie Rabus sits behind a microphone, magic happens. The Nashville country artist brings a rare authenticity to her music that cuts through the noise of formulaic radio hits. On this episode, Stephanie takes us behind the curtain of her musical journey, revealing the bittersweet path that shaped both her sound and her soul.

Stephanie's story begins with family—specifically, joining her father's band "40 South" at age 21, where she injected contemporary hits into their oldies repertoire. This early experience planted seeds for her versatile musical approach that refuses to be boxed into just one sound. "I wanted to incorporate a little bit of all my influences," she explains, discussing her album "My Time Now" which seamlessly blends country, pop, blues, and rock elements while maintaining a cohesive heart.

What makes Stephanie's music stand apart is its emotional depth. Her latest single "Pray You Down" emerged after profound personal losses—a close friend and band member, followed by her boyfriend's mother. The raw vulnerability in her performance transforms grief into something universally healing. "I know everyone can relate to just wishing they could talk to that person again," she shares, highlighting how music bridges our deepest human experiences.

The conversation ventures into the realities of navigating music as an independent artist—the creative freedom balanced against financial challenges. Stephanie candidly discusses her collaborations with producers Justine Blazer and Brandon Henneger, opening for established artists like Lee Brice, and how childhood struggles with self-image and health issues ultimately strengthened her connection to music. "When I got to sing in school, people started complimenting me... it felt like there's something good here, something I can be confident in."

Stephanie's father emerges as her unsung hero, championing her talent and handling behind-the-scenes work without compensation. His unwavering belief reflects what makes Stephanie's musical journey so compelling—authenticity always finds its audience. Whether you're a longtime country fan or just discovering her music, Stephanie Rabus delivers songs that feel like conversations with an old friend who truly understands your heart.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Stephanie Rabus: https://stephanierabus.net/

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A chance encounter at CMA Fest turns into show gold as Scarlett Jackson joins Jay Franze and Tiffany Mason to share her behind-the-scenes experience working the Shenandoah booth. What begins as friendly banter about Jay's "new best friend" evolves into a fascinating glimpse into Nashville's country music scene through the eyes of someone who bridges fan and industry perspectives.

Scarlett's Mississippi charm shines as she recounts meeting artists like Cole Goodwin, Jake Worthington, and Trey Calloway, offering listeners insider updates on upcoming singles and performances. The conversation naturally flows into deeper territory when the trio dives into the Recording Academy's decision to split country music Grammy categories into "traditional" and "contemporary." This sparks a thoughtful debate about what constitutes authentic country sound in today's evolving landscape, with everyone weighing in on which current artists are keeping traditional country alive.

Between updates on Lainey Wilson's Country Music Hall of Fame exhibit, Lauren Alaina's journey into motherhood, and Led Zeppelin's surprising new album announcement, the hosts pose their question of the day: "If your life had a soundtrack, what would the opening song be?" The responses—ranging from Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" to the Dixie Chicks' "Wide Open Spaces"—reveal the personalities behind the microphones and create an intimate connection with listeners who eagerly share their own selections.

The easy chemistry between Jay, Tiffany, and their guest makes for an entertaining, laughter-filled hour that feels like eavesdropping on friends catching up over coffee. Whether you're a die-hard country music fan curious about industry shifts or simply enjoy authentic conversations with heart and humor, this episode delivers both substance and joy in equal measure. Tune in for insights, updates, and a reminder of why country music's community spirit remains its greatest strength.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/
• NOAPOLOGY: https://www.youtube.com/@noapologyofficial
• Halocene: https://www.youtube.com/@Halocene
• Sarabella Franze (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@official.b.ella

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Nashville's legendary CMA Fest vibrates through this episode as Jay and Tiffany take you behind closed doors of country music's biggest gathering. Far more than just concerts and fan experiences, we unpack the fascinating ecosystem that forms when hundreds of thousands descend on Music City.

Walking Broadway's musical gauntlet creates a sensory experience like no other—stepping from one bar to the next delivers an entirely new soundscape, with multiple performances happening simultaneously across different levels of each venue. But beyond the tourist appeal lies the real magic: the networking, the connections made, and the stories that unfold when industry professionals who typically collaborate digitally finally meet face-to-face.

We share our candid personal highlights, from impromptu boob-signing adventures to meeting music legends like Lee Greenwood, whose dedication to listening to every veteran's story extends his meet-and-greets by hours. These moments of authenticity reveal the heart behind the glitz. Meanwhile, our exploration of Morgan Wallen's record-breaking chart domination—with 36 of 37 tracks charting simultaneously—leads us to examine how streaming has fundamentally reshaped album creation and consumption.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as we debate dream artist meetups (is Elvis still alive?), examine the potential of podcast influence on politics through Mark Maron's iconic garage recordings, and contemplate how Eminem's evolution into grandparenthood makes us all feel suddenly ancient. We even discover life-changing culinary wisdom with salt and pepper on french fries—proving that sometimes the smallest revelations create the most lasting impressions.

Whether you're curious about country music's beating heart, fascinated by entertainment industry mechanics, or simply love genuine conversation that ranges from heartfelt to hilarious, this episode delivers unique insights you won't find in mainstream coverage. Join our conversation by commenting at jayfranze.com or appearing live on-screen with us at jayfranze.com/live!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/
• NOAPOLOGY: https://www.youtube.com/@noapologyofficial
• Halocene: https://www.youtube.com/@Halocene
• Sarabella Franze (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@official.b.ella

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Step into the musical time machine with Jay Franze and co-host Tiffany Mason as they navigate through fascinating moments in music history, from Kenny Rogers and Dottie West topping charts in 1978 to The Monkees winning an Emmy that same decade. Their infectious camaraderie and playful banter create the perfect backdrop for music industry insights you won't find anywhere else.

The heart of this episode beats around a simple yet revealing question: What was the first album you ever purchased with your own money? Listeners chime in with touchstone albums spanning decades – from Aerosmith's "Toys in the Attic" and ACDC's "Back in Black" to more recent gems like Eric Church's "Chief" and Taylor Swift's "Fearless." These musical firsts paint a vibrant portrait of generational tastes and personal connections to music.

Nashville takes center stage as Jay and Tiffany discuss the upcoming CMA Fest (though Jay insists on calling it by its original name, "Fanfare"), where they'll connect with industry professionals and artists who've been featured on the show. The conversation weaves through breaking news about Jelly Roll's ambitious plans for Nashville's new Nissan Stadium and Post Malone's expanding country music footprint with a massive new venue on Broadway.

Music recommendations shine with Tiffany suggesting indie artist Jolie's hauntingly beautiful "Ghost of Us" and Jay countering with Ukrainian female-fronted rock band No Apology's "Bad News." Their distinct musical preferences highlight the show's diverse appeal and the hosts' genuine passion for discovering and sharing new sounds.

Whether you're a longtime music industry professional or simply a passionate fan, this episode delivers that perfect blend of insider knowledge, nostalgic reflection, and forward-looking excitement that keeps listeners coming back. follow now and join the conversation at jayfranzy.com, where the music never stops!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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What happens when a Broadway performer steps away from the stage for a decade to raise children, then reemerges as a recording artist? In this candid conversation, Ann Kittredge reveals the unexpected twists in her artistic journey from theater to acclaimed vocalist.

The heart of Kittredge's approach lies in her commitment to storytelling above all else. "I don't ever want it to be about my voice," she explains, detailing how she molds her vocal style to serve each song rather than imposing herself upon it. This chameleon-like flexibility allows her to move effortlessly between genres - from jazz and swing to country and folk - creating albums that defy easy categorization but maintain emotional authenticity.

Kittredge shares a particularly moving story about her determination to record Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man" as a love letter to music itself, despite her team's initial resistance. After bringing the song to planning meetings four separate times, she finally issued an ultimatum: "I have to do this song...if you really don't like it, you have my permission to not be involved." The song eventually became one of her most requested numbers, illustrating how creative conviction can overcome collaborative doubt.

Perhaps most revealing is Kittredge's honesty about returning to performing after a decade-long hiatus to raise her children. "Confidence has been a big challenge," she admits, describing how she initially knew she "wasn't good" but recognized that improvement required persistence through discomfort. This vulnerability transformed into strength when her pandemic-inspired debut album - originally intended just for her children - unexpectedly garnered over a million streams on Spotify.

Whether discussing caring for her mother with Alzheimer's, navigating her marriage of nearly forty years, or reimagining classic songs, Kittredge demonstrates that artistic growth often emerges from life's complexities rather than despite them. Her story offers powerful encouragement for anyone considering a creative reinvention at any age. Listen, be inspired, and then seek out the extraordinary work of independent artists like Kittredge who deserve your support.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Ann Kittredge: https://www.annkittredge.com/

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Ever wondered what connects Journey concerts, floating in salt pods, and country music birthdays? This episode takes you on a journey through music history and personal stories that will have you nodding along and laughing out loud.

We kick things off with a nostalgic dive into our first concert experiences – Jay's being Journey with Billy Squire opening (complete with the unexpected secondhand marijuana experience at Boston Garden), while Tiffany attended a Michael W. Smith show before graduating to Aerosmith. Our listeners chimed in with everything from Backstreet Boys to Ozzy Osbourne, sparking conversations about how these formative shows shaped our musical tastes.

The musical birthday calendar for June reveals fascinating stories about country and rock stars celebrating this month. Did you know Lee Bryce was a songwriter for Garth Brooks before launching his solo career? Or that two members of Korn share June birthdays just days apart? We unpack these fun facts while discussing Ronnie Dunn, Blake Shelton, Gretchen Wilson, Joey Kramer of Aerosmith, and many more June-born musicians.

Our music news segment covers Billy Joel's heartbreaking tour cancellation due to his brain disorder diagnosis, the alleged discovery of Freddie Mercury's secret daughter, and Miranda Lambert's refreshingly humble take on her Country Music Hall of Fame prospects. We also spotlight two incredible song recommendations – the genre-bending "Six Feet Deep" by Royale Lynn that perfectly blends country lyrics with metal edge, and the hauntingly beautiful "Ghost of Us" by indie artist Jolie from St. Augustine.

The episode wraps with Tiffany's hilarious and anxiety-filled account of experiencing a sensory deprivation float tank for the first time – a rollercoaster of emotions packed into a foot of salt water that perfectly captures the authentic, unfiltered conversation style we're known for.

Ready to join our crew? Follow us at jayfranze.com and tell a friend about the show – or two friends if you didn't enjoy it! Either way, keep chasing the rhythm – your sound matters.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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What happens when a 19-year-old vocalist joins forces with seasoned musicians spanning six decades of life experience? In this riveting conversation with Awaiting Abigail, we discover how musical chemistry transcends age barriers and conventional wisdom.

The Dallas-Fort Worth hard rock band shares their remarkable origin story - from guitarist James finding vocalist Abby through a "musician dating app" to their first high-profile gig at Trees in Deep Ellum. Abby reveals how she turned instrumental tracks into fully-formed songs from her home studio, delivering one powerful composition weekly to increasingly impressed bandmates who initially worried about the 42-year age gap between their youngest and oldest members.

Behind their powerful sound lies a fascinating recording process with producer Alex Gerst at Empire Sound. The band details their transition to modern gear like the Quad Cortex for silent-stage performances while maintaining authentic rock energy. Their rapid ascent includes upcoming performances with LA Guns at the legendary Whiskey a Go Go in Hollywood, Lillian Axe's Texas tour, and a biker rally alongside Texas Hippie Coalition.

Most compelling is how this self-described "island of misfit toys" functions as a cohesive unit despite their generational differences. As Abby puts it, their diversity "gives us different genres and time periods and mixes it together really well." What began as an uncertain collaboration has evolved into a musical family united by shared passion and mutual respect.

Want to witness this unique rock phenomenon yourself? Follow Awaiting Abigail on social media to catch them at venues across the Southwest and beyond as they continue their remarkable journey from unlikely beginnings to hard rock success story.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Awaiting Abigail: https://awaitingabigailband.com/

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The battle for creative ownership takes center stage in this revealing episode as we unpack Five Finger Death Punch's decision to re-record their entire catalog after their record label sold their music without consultation. This Taylor Swift-esque move highlights the ongoing tension between artists and the business machinery that often controls their art.

We dive into the fascinating world of band name ownership disputes where founding members like Steven Piercy of Ratt and Jeff Tate of Queensryche have been legally barred from using the very band names they created. The stories reveal just how precarious artistic identity can be in the music industry's legal landscape, where blood, sweat, and tears building a brand can be lost through contractual fine print.

The show takes a lighter turn when we crowd-source the ultimate road trip playlist, with listeners suggesting everything from AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" to Toto's "Africa" – complete with the heartbreaking backstory that the songwriter never got to visit the continent before his death. These musical discussions highlight how deeply songs become interwoven with our travel experiences and memories.

We also touch on Alan Jackson's final tour performance at age 66, where health issues have forced him to retire from the road despite sounding great vocally – a poignant reminder of the physical toll touring takes, even on country legends. Between Foreigner continuing without a single original member and Bruce Springsteen releasing decades-old unreleased tracks, the episode examines how artists and their music evolve, persist, or transform over time.

What song would you add to your road trip playlist first? Join the conversation and share your own music industry stories with us!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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