Song Revolution with John Chisum

Nashville Christian Songwriters
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Song Revolution with John Chisum

The Song Revolution Podcast exists to empower you through valuable songwriting insights, inspiration, and interviews with some of the greatest songwriters, producers, arrangers, artists, and creatives in the industry and beyond. Find out more at nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    JOHN CHISUM: Writing Production Ready Songs

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3 Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich Episode Title: Writing Production Ready Songs   Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich dive into the fundamentals of what makes a song truly production-ready. If you’re planning to invest in recording your music, you’ll want to ensure your song is strong enough to stand on its own before adding layers of production. Learn how publishing, songwriting craft, and modern digital distribution have evolved and why quality control in songwriting matters more than ever in today’s music landscape.   Key Takeaways: The key elements that make a song ready for production Why a great song should stand on its own, even without production The difference between an inspired song and a well-crafted song How digital streaming has changed the music industry and what that means for songwriters Lessons from publishing and A&R in the pre-digital era The importance of quality control in modern music production   Key Moments: [02:32] – What makes a song production-ready? [04:51] – When does production enhance vs. expose flaws in a song? [07:03] – The risks of spending money on production before your song is ready [14:25] – Then vs. now: How publishing and gatekeepers shaped quality in music [20:58] – The shift from quality-controlled music to the digital Wild West [30:49] – Why songwriters must be open to feedback for growth [35:44] – Writing music with a mission and ministry focus [38:25] – How to grow your songwriting craft with NCS resources   Get Involved: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    39 min

  2. FEB 10

    COBY JAMES: Home Studio Production Tips

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Host: John Chisum Special Guest: Coby James   Episode Title: COBY JAMES: Home Studio Production Tips   Episode Summary: Welcome to another exciting episode of Song Revolution! This week, we're diving into the world of home music production with artist, songwriter, and producer Coby James. Coby shares his journey from experimenting with GarageBand at age 14 to becoming an independent artist and producer. He offers valuable insights on setting up a home studio, layering sounds, and making professional-quality music from your bedroom. Key Takeaways: The essential gear needed for a home recording studio How to structure and arrange a song for production The pros and cons of home recording vs. professional studios How production enhances or exposes flaws in a song Why song quality matters more than fancy equipment Insights from Coby’s transition from signed artist to independent producer Key Moments: [00:00] – Welcome to Season 3 of Song Revolution [04:10] – Coby’s early journey in music and production [09:19] – Leaving Centricity and stepping into independence [13:21] – Essential home studio gear setup [21:26] – The process of building a song from scratch [25:28] – Understanding the “grid” and song structure [30:43] – The importance of great songwriting before production   Connect with Coby James: https://www.cobyjames.com/   Get Involved: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    36 min

  3. FEB 3

    JOHN CHISUM: From Your Work Demo To The World

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3 Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich Episode Title: From Your Work Demo to the World Episode Summary: Welcome to Season 3 of Song Revolution! This month, we're diving into music production—what it takes to transform your voice memo ideas into professional master recordings ready for the world. Join hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich as they break down the process from songwriting and demo production to full-scale music releases. Key Takeaways: The modern songwriting process—how to refine your idea before production Understanding the difference between work tapes, demos, and masters When to invest in a full production vs. keeping it simple How producers help shape a song’s final sound Why marketing & distribution are essential to reaching listeners Get Involved: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   Featured NCS Artists: J Davids, Bonnie Barbet, and Anya – listen to their latest releases! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    39 min

  4. JAN 27

    GALEN CREW: To China with Love

    Song Revolution Podcast - Season 3, Episode 4 Episode Title: Galen Crew: To China with Love Host: John Chisum   Special Guest: Galen Crew, Singer-Songwriter and Producer   Episode Highlights: Meet Galen Crew: Nashville-raised artist and songwriter with an inspiring global reach. Viral success in China, with over a billion streams across his catalog. Collaboration with legendary British songwriter Roger Cook, known for “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing.” The Road to Music City: Growing up in Franklin, Tennessee, surrounded by the Christian music scene. Early songwriting inspired by personal experiences, including his parents' divorce. Crafting a Unique Musical Identity: Fusing fantasy, fairy tale, and mythological themes into his music. Inspirations from Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Hermann Hesse. The journey from a local rock band to a solo artist with global appeal. Going Viral in China: The unexpected success of “Sleepy Head” on Chinese music platforms like NetEase and Tencent. Navigating international music markets and learning to connect with a diverse audience. Touring China, performing for dedicated fans, and bridging cultural gaps with music and language. Collaborations and Mentorship: The serendipitous connection with Roger Cook through Galen’s grandfather. Writing and producing songs like “Sleepy Head” with Roger Cook. Learning the art of storytelling in songwriting. Lessons for Songwriters: Embracing creativity and authenticity in your music. Encouragement to step out of your comfort zone and share your unique voice. Exploring global opportunities and being open to unexpected paths.   Key Takeaways: Music transcends borders, with the potential to connect with audiences worldwide. Authenticity in your art can carve new lanes beyond traditional industry expectations. Leveraging the digital age to expand your reach is more accessible than ever.   Featured Tracks: Sleepy Head – A viral hit in China with a whimsical, fairy-tale theme. Explore Galen Crew’s music on Spotify, NetEase, and other platforms.   Get Involved: Check out Galen Crew’s music and follow his inspiring journey. Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and inspiration to revolutionize your songwriting. Download the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge Guide to take your craft to the next level.   Next Week’s Episode: Celebrating the power of community and collaboration in songwriting with a special guest from the Nashville scene. Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com Social Media: Facebook | Instagram Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    41 min

  5. JAN 20

    JOHN CHISUM: Discovering Your Hidden Songwriting Genius

    Song Revolution Podcast - Season 3, Episode 3 Episode Title: John Chisum: Discovering Your Hidden Songwriting Genius Host: John Chisum   Episode Highlights: Celebrating a Decade of Songwriting Excellence: Reflecting on 10 years of Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) and 42 years in Christian music for John Chisum. Announcement of the 30th-anniversary edition of "Firm Foundation," set for release this month. 2025 Songwriting Challenge: A free year-long program to help Christian songwriters develop one new skill per month. Includes monthly free training sessions, resources, and a downloadable guide. Encouragement to set a "giant intention" for songwriting growth this year. Discovering Your Songwriting Zone of Genius: Insights inspired by Gay Hendricks' book The Big Leap. Identifying whether you're a producer, lyricist, technician, or big idea person. Strategies for maximizing strengths and collaborating to address weaknesses. Community and Coaching Opportunities: Overview of NCS programs, including one-on-one coaching, group coaching, and artist development programs. Introduction to the NCS Collective, a record label supporting emerging Christian songwriters. Music Showcase: Sneak peeks of music produced through the NCS Collective, including "Mighty God" featuring Kobe James and "You Are The One" by Bonnie Barbet. Examples of world-class music from songwriters empowered by NCS coaching programs. Practical Songwriting Advice: Avoiding common mistakes like premature production of underdeveloped songs. Understanding the importance of proper song form and market readiness. Encouragement to invest in personal growth as a songwriter.   Key Takeaways: Discovering and focusing on your songwriting strengths will lead to more impactful music. Developing skills and collaborating within a supportive community can elevate your craft. Time will pass regardless; use it to grow and fulfill your God-given calling as a songwriter.   Get Involved: Download the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge Guide from the show notes. Join the NCS Community for weekly coaching and resources to revolutionize your songwriting journey. Explore the NCS Collective and listen to inspiring music from Christian songwriters.   Next Week's Episode: Special guest: Galen Crew, a songwriter with over a billion streams in China, shares his creative journey.   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com Social Media: Facebook | Instagram   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters and creatives.

    35 min

  6. JAN 13

    LEANNA CRAWFORD: God and Goat Yoga

    Song Revolution Podcast - Season 3, Episode 2 Episode Title: Leanna Crawford: God and Goat Yoga Hosts: John Chisum   Special Guest: Leanna Crawford, Christian music artist and songwriter   Episode Highlights: Meet Leanna Crawford: Signed to Provident Music, Leanna's latest album, Still Waters, is inspired by faith, family, and life's experiences. She's toured with artists like 10th Avenue North, Michael W. Smith, and Matthew West and is making an impact not just through music but also through her partnership with Charity Water. The Heart Behind Still Waters: Exploring themes of faith, vulnerability, and personal growth. Stories behind key songs like "Simple" and "Still Waters." The balance between the spiritual and psychological aspects of life and songwriting. Leanna's Journey: Growing up on a horse farm in the Northwest, with early songwriting roots inspired by everyday experiences. How moving to Nashville shaped her artistry and opened doors in the music industry. Funny anecdotes like goat yoga and near misses with ATVs, showcasing her down-to-earth personality. Faith and Worship: Leanna reflects on her church background and how it influenced her approach to music and ministry. A deep dive into her creative process and how she keeps performances fresh for audiences across different cities. Spotlight on the Song "Simple": Lyrics that resonate deeply about God's grace and simplicity in faith. Insights into the songwriting process with co-writers Jason Houser and Clint Lagerberg. The personal and spiritual layers that inspired this heartfelt track. Live Performance: Leanna performs "Simple," offering an intimate look into the emotion and meaning behind the song. Key Takeaways: Vulnerability in songwriting allows for deeper connections with listeners. Acknowledge the intersection of spiritual and mental health in the journey of faith. Great songs come from authentic stories and experiences. Get Involved: Stream Still Waters by Leanna Crawford on your favorite platform. Learn more about her ministry and music on LeannaCrawford.com. Next Week's Episode: Discover your "Songwriting Zone of Genius" with John and Bryant. Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com Social Media: Facebook | Instagram Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with someone passionate about music and faith!

    37 min

  7. JAN 6

    JOHN CHISUM: Getting Unstuck, Get a Plan, and Get Heard

    Song Revolution Podcast - Season 3 Premiere Episode Title: John Chisum: “Getting Unstuck, Get a Plan, and Get Heard” Hosts: John Chisum Bryant Urich   Episode Highlights: Welcome to Season 3! A new year and a new season of Song Revolution. Overview of exciting plans for 2025, including interviews, teachings, and a 12-month songwriting challenge. Special Guests and Upcoming Highlights: Leanna Crawford, Galen Crew, and a revival episode featuring the group Out of Eden. Insights from songwriters with incredible journeys. The 12-Month Songwriting Challenge: A skill-focused journey: Learn one new songwriting skill each month. Free resources, including live training sessions, email guides, and practical insights. Designed for all songwriters—whether you're just starting or seasoned in your craft. Practical Tips for Songwriters: Develop intentionality and set realistic goals for your songwriting journey. Surround yourself with a supportive songwriting community. Strategies to share your songs strategically and seek meaningful feedback. The Importance of Craft: Balancing the spiritual inspiration of songwriting with practical skill-building. The value of writing compelling hooks, learning rhyme schemes, and receiving constructive feedback.   Key Takeaways: Success in songwriting requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn. Focus on creating songs that stand out, not just production value. A great song can shine even with a simple arrangement. "Make noise where you are, and people will find you." – Practical advice for indie artists from industry leaders.   Get Involved: Join the 2025 Songwriting Challenge: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com Join the NCS Community: A worldwide network of Christian songwriters to inspire and grow your craft.   Next Week's Episode: Special Guest: Leanna Crawford shares her insights, music, and a unique perspective on faith and creativity.   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com Social Media: Facebook | Instagram   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow songwriter!

    50 min

  8. 02/12/2024

    SETH & NIRVA: Courage, Compassion, and the Gospel

    Hey everybody! Welcome back to Song Revolution. It's an absolute joy to be here with you once again, bringing you fresh inspiration and encouragement to help you live a better life. Today, we have a captivating duo in our midst – Seth and Nirva Ready. Nirva, once a dancer and singer for Toby Mac, brings a wealth of behind-the-scenes stories, while Seth's journey from his Mississippi roots led him to share the stage with gospel legends such as Kirk Franklin and Donnie McClurkin. Stay tuned as we dive into these captivating stories, offering a glimpse into the life of artists who are not just creating music but are also shaping the spiritual landscape through their work.  Thank you for joining us today, and let's dive into the heart of our conversation. Stay connected with us on Song Revolution – where music meets faith and creativity sparks change.   NCS PRO SONG MASTERY FREE DISCOVERY CALL: https://ncssongwriters.kartra.com/page/breakthrough-call “OVERCOMING SONGWRITING LIMITATIONS” TRAINING: https://soundcloud.com/ncssongs/overcoming-songwriting-limitations-audio-only-31123?si=4cab399c7bf6435d99aa87e664de68d3&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing    CONNECT WITH SETH & NIRVA Website - sethandnirva.com/ YouTube - www.youtube.com/channel/UCZi-42Z_xNoofUYcwKeQ3jw Instagram - www.instagram.com/sethandnirva/   CONNECT WITH NASHVILLE CHRISTIAN SONGWRITERS Nashville Christian Songwriters - www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com Kingdom Songwriters Academy - www.kingdomsongwritersacademy.com  Facebook - www.facebook.com/nashvillechristiansongwriters/ Instagram - www.instagram.com/nashvillechristiansongwriters/ Twitter - twitter.com/NCSsongwriters   SUBSCRIBE TO THE SONG REVOLUTION PODCAST Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/song-revolution-with-john-chisum/id1220274942 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6uIIh5kJrEjP6oxmJDKqHP  If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast!   ABOUT THE SONG REVOLUTION PODCAST The Song Revolution Podcast exists to empower you through valuable songwriting insights, inspiration, and interviews with some of the greatest songwriters, producers, arrangers, artists, and creatives in the industry and beyond. Find out more at: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/song-revolution-podcast/

    40 min
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4.9
out of 5
62 Ratings

About

The Song Revolution Podcast exists to empower you through valuable songwriting insights, inspiration, and interviews with some of the greatest songwriters, producers, arrangers, artists, and creatives in the industry and beyond. Find out more at nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Information

  • Creator
    Nashville Christian Songwriters
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    206
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Nashville Christian Songwriters
  • Show Website
    Song Revolution with John Chisum

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