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    Music

    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

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    Copyright: © Nashville Christian Songwriters

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    Latest Episodes:
    JOHN CHISUM: Time, Tithe, and Talent Aug 18, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

    Episode Title: Time, Tithe, and Talent

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum and Bryant Urich shift the focus inward to explore what it really means to be a songwriter in today's world. Beyond writing lyrics and melodies, this conversation is about discovering the deeper motivations that drive your creative work—your identity, purpose, and the integrity behind the songs you share.

    John and Bryant discuss the pressures that come with songwriting in the Christian space, the temptation to chase trends, and the challenge of staying spiritually grounded in the process. With honest stories and practical insight, they offer encouragement to writers at any stage—whether you're just getting started or trying to reignite your creative spark.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    Why songwriting is as much about spiritual formation as it is about craft

    How to stay connected to your purpose when writing gets hard

    The danger of creating to be seen or validated by others

    Why your identity must be rooted in something deeper than public approval

    How personal growth leads to stronger, more honest songs

    Why songwriting is a long game that rewards consistency and humility

    Key Topics and Highlights:

    • The internal conflict many songwriters face between calling and performance
    • Why it's okay to take breaks when creativity feels dry
    • John's reflections on mentoring writers through burnout and self-doubt
    • Bryant's experience rediscovering joy in the process of writing, not just releasing
    • The power of writing songs that minister to you before they minister to others
    • Letting go of perfectionism and pressure to produce commercial work
    • Writing from a place of wholeness instead of striving
    • The value of community, coaching, and trusted feedback in your journey

    Final Takeaway: Your songs matter—but not because of streams, charts, or recognition. They matter because they're a reflection of your story, your journey, and your willingness to be honest with God and others. When you write from that place, the impact will follow.

    Resources & Links:

    NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

    https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/


    DAN DEAN: 25 Years of Ministry with Phillips, Craig, and Dean Aug 11, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Hosts: John Chisum

    Guest: Dan Dean

    Episode Title: DAN DEAN: 25 Years of Ministry with Phillips, Craig, and Dean

    Episode Summary: In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with Dan Dean—one-third of the legendary trio Phillips, Craig & Dean—to explore a decades-long career marked by timeless songs, deep-rooted ministry, and a newly released solo album, More. From early cassette recordings to leading worship across the globe, Dan opens up about perseverance, songwriting, the power of legacy, and why he's more inspired than ever to keep creating.

    What You'll Hear:

    Dan's early journey from solo artist to founding member of Phillips, Craig & Dean

    Behind-the-scenes stories from their 30+ year career and 14 studio albums

    How one heartfelt war-time promise shaped generations of ministry

    The spiritual and emotional layers behind Dan's new solo album, More

    A father-son duet and the family legacy of faith through music

    Why beloved songs like "Crucified with Christ" and "Revelation Song" still resonate

    Words of encouragement for aspiring songwriters and worship leaders

    Featured Songs from More:

    "More" – A song of hope written during the isolation of COVID

    "Home" – A heartfelt duet with Dan's son, Devin Dean

    "Mother of Boys" – Inspired by a poem written by Dan's mom

    "Never Gets Old" – A touching reflection on the unchanging power of Scripture

    Notable Quotes:

    "God always has more of what you need." "You want to hear the songs that brought some kind of emotional or spiritual impact in your life." "The power of one man's decision can impact generations." "It wasn't always easy, but we were faithful to the call."

    Resources & Links:

    Connect with Dan Dean: https://www.dandeanofficial.com/

    Follow Dan on Instagram: @danpcd

    NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

    https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/


    JOHN CHISUM: Want to Be a Christian Artist? Aug 04, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

    Episode Title: Want to Be a Christian Artist?

    Episode Summary: Season 3 of Song Revolution kicks off with a powerful conversation between hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich about what it truly means to pursue a calling as a Christian artist. Reflecting on their recent experience at the Heaven on Earth Festival in Moab, Utah, they share personal stories, hard truths, and practical encouragement for artists who feel called to create for the Kingdom.

    This episode is about more than music. It's about authenticity, obedience, and learning to start where you are. Whether you're a worship leader, an indie singer-songwriter, or simply exploring your creative gifts, John and Bryant challenge you to examine your motivation, clarify your calling, and step forward in faith—no matter your stage or platform.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    Why "becoming" is more important than "arriving" in your artist journey

    The difference between creating art from identity vs. seeking identity through art

    How to start from where you are, without needing to impress or perform

    Why your story is your greatest songwriting asset

    How comparison, insecurity, and external validation can derail your calling

    The importance of community and mentorship in your creative development

    Why Christian artistry must be rooted in spiritual obedience, not metrics or success

    Key Topics and Highlights:

    Takeaways from the Heaven on Earth Festival: worship, storytelling, and deep connection

    The false pressure to look like a "real artist" before you actually become one

    John's reflections on his Integrity Music years and what has changed since

    Bryant's honest experience stepping into live performance and finding freedom

    The sacredness of your story and how it shapes the songs you write

    What Christian artists must understand about calling, identity, and surrender

    How coaching, development, and trusted community make a measurable difference

    A preview of what's coming in Season 3 of the podcast

    Final Takeaway: Success in Christian music isn't about being famous. It's about being faithful. The journey of becoming an artist starts with showing up, stewarding your story, and letting God shape the outcome.

    Resources & Links:

    Listen to Eauclaire's music!

    https://linktr.ee/eauclaire

    NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

    https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/


    JUSTIN GAMBINO: Turning Trials Into Testimony Jul 28, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Host: Bryant Urich

    Guest: Justin Gambino

    Episode Title: JUSTIN GAMBINO: Turning Trials into Testimony

    Episode Summary: In one of the most powerful episodes of Song Revolution to date, host Bryant Urich sits down with recording artist and worship leader Justin Gambino, who shares his raw and redemptive life story—from addiction and criminal charges at age 18, to leading worship in Iraq, to becoming a full-time touring Christian artist.

    Raised in church and homeschooled in small-town Texas, Justin began his musical journey strumming his Bible as a boy, only to spiral into a destructive lifestyle during his teenage years. A run-in with the law, followed by a choice between prison and military service, led him to the Navy—and eventually to Iraq, where God quite literally put the guitar back in his hands.

    This episode traces Justin's powerful transformation, the birth of his music career, and the spiritual awakening that reignited his faith. His 2023 album Made New and the ongoing annual revival in his hometown are living proof of God's faithfulness and redemption.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    How Justin went from addiction and theft to leading worship in Iraq

    Why his first deployment became the turning point in his spiritual journey

    The role of music in reconnecting with God during his darkest season

    How COVID-19 shutdowns helped him rediscover his purpose

    What it means to truly surrender your platform and calling to God

    The incredible story behind the founding of a county-wide revival in the same courthouse where he once stood trial

    Key Moments:

    03:00 – Justin's musical roots and discovering Christian music

    10:00 – Addiction, brokenness, and being arrested at 18

    13:00 – Choosing military service over a felony conviction

    18:00 – Feeling lost in Iraq and reconnecting with God through worship

    23:00 – Leading worship for fellow soldiers and rebuilding faith

    29:00 – Going full-time in music and launching his career

    35:00 – Falling into complacency and chasing popularity in Christian music

    39:00 – The spiritual breakthrough during COVID that inspired Made New

    43:00 – The full-circle moment of leading worship on the courthouse steps

    47:00 – Launching an annual revival and walking in true purpose

    Closing Thought: Justin's story is a reminder that no matter how far you've fallen, God is still writing your story—and sometimes He puts the guitar back in your hands just when you think the music is over.

    Resources & Links:

    Listen to Justin Gambino's album Made New on all streaming platforms

    Follow Justin on Instagram: @justingambinomusic

    Learn more at justingambino.com

    NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

    https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/


    JOHN CHISUM: Mapping Your Next Steps in Music Making Jul 21, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

    Episode Title: Mapping Your Next Steps in Music Making

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich continue their deep dive into what it means to build a career in the current music landscape. They break down how the music business has radically changed in recent years, why anyone can now record and distribute music, and what that means for artists trying to rise above the noise.

    John and Bryant also get practical, discussing how to identify your "why," set realistic goals, and map out the next right steps for your music. From learning the craft to investing wisely in production and marketing, they highlight the common pitfalls and the importance of not rushing into expensive projects before your songs are truly ready.

    Drawing on stories from artists like Howard Gripp and Katrina Pacheco, they demonstrate how patience, coaching, and strategic planning lead to long-term success. They also stress why building your skills and your message is essential before stepping into the studio or pursuing larger platforms.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • How streaming, technology, and user-generated content have transformed the music industry
    • Why quality matters more than ever in a market saturated with average songs
    • The crucial role of understanding your mission and message as an artist
    • Practical examples of artists who took time to develop before seeing breakthroughs
    • How to wisely approach production, avoid common traps, and make your money count
    • The benefits of mentorship, coaching, and being part of a creative community

    Key Topics and Highlights:

    • The democratization of music: anyone can now produce and release songs, for better or worse
    • Why thousands of songs on Spotify never get a single play—and how to stand out
    • How to clarify your "why" so you can create music with clear purpose and focus
    • Real-world examples of artists who spent years developing before landing record deals or large ministry opportunities
    • Why rushing into the studio often backfires and how to avoid wasting money on songs that aren't ready
    • The role of producers in shaping an authentic sound that fits both your message and your audience
    • How NCS helps artists and songwriters at every stage, from first drafts to full-scale releases

    Practical Next Steps Discussed:

    • Write consistently to hone your craft before anything else
    • Record simple demos to capture ideas and start shaping your sound
    • Seek out honest feedback and coaching to strengthen your writing
    • Decide whether to produce yourself or hire a producer—and how to choose wisely
    • Build a plan around your first professional recording rather than jumping in blind
    • Understand that making it in music is a long process that requires patience, investment, and strategic growth

    Final Takeaway: No matter your age, background, or level of experience, the most important thing is to keep growing in your songwriting, stay clear on your mission, and take the next right step—without skipping the foundation that will make your music truly impactful.

    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 - Check out the artists we're working with!

    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!


    CHRIS WEINBERG: Build a Business For Your Music Jul 14, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Host: John Chisum

    Special Guest: Chris Weinberg

    Episode Title: CHRIS WEINBERG: Build a Business For Your Music

    Episode Summary: This week on Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with Chris Weinberg, a top business and performance coach who has worked with Fortune 500 executives, artists, entertainment companies, and entrepreneurs. As someone who has helped creative professionals turn their passion into a sustainable business, Chris shares valuable insights on what it takes to monetize your music career.

    If you're a songwriter, independent artist, or creative professional trying to navigate the business side of music, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to help you structure your success. Chris breaks down his four pillars for a thriving business—People, Sales, Profit, and Self—and explains why balancing these elements is crucial for any artist looking to grow their career.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • The difference between coaching and consulting—and why both matter
    • How to think like a CEO of your own music career
    • Why artists struggle with the business side of music—and how to overcome it
    • The four essential pillars of business success: People, Sales, Profit & Self
    • How to build multiple revenue streams as a songwriter and musician
    • Practical steps to monetize your music and develop your brand

    Key Moments: [03:03] – Chris Weinberg's journey into coaching & working with creatives [05:52] – Coaching vs. consulting: What's the difference? [08:27] – The biggest challenges creative people face in business [13:12] – Why successful artists need business coaching [19:08] – Breaking down the four pillars of success [26:07] – The mindset shift: Treating your music as a business, not a hobby [32:52] – The value of investing in coaching for long-term growth [37:09] – Final takeaways: Why you need a plan for success

    Get Involved:

    Check out what Chris is doing at Well Coached

    https://www.wellcoachedconsulting.com/

    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!


    JOHN CHISUM: How Music Works Now Jul 07, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

    Episode Title: How Music Works Now

    Episode Summary: In this kickoff episode for July, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich reflect on the first half of 2025 and introduce the month's focus: understanding how the music industry works today. They explore the challenges and changes facing songwriters and artists, especially those operating outside traditional industry systems. From redefining what "making it" means to embracing the calling of songwriting at every level, this episode delivers both practical insight and encouragement for Christian creatives.

    John and Bryant share lessons from their own journeys, reflect on standout moments from past guests, and unpack why success looks different for everyone—from indie artists like Jason Lovins and Justin Gambino to songwriters working quietly at home. The conversation highlights the importance of obedience, daily faithfulness, and allowing God to shape your creative path—one step at a time.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    - How the definition of "success" in music has evolved

    - Why comparison is one of the biggest creativity killers

    - What it takes to build a career in today's indie music economy

    - Why obedience and consistency are more valuable than overnight success

    - How NCS is helping songwriters at every stage of their journey

    - Practical resources to understand the business side of music

    Key Moments:

    - Reflecting on standout episodes and guests from 2025 so far

    - Why the indie artist model is more relevant than ever

    - Breaking down the myth of "overnight fame"

    - How John rebuilt his music career at age 58

    - The power of obedience in creative and career decisions

    -Why your journey is valid—no matter what stage you're in

    -Resources and book recommendations for navigating the music business

    - A preview of upcoming episodes on building a business and mapping your next steps

    Recommended Resources:

    - How to Make It in the New Music Business by Ari Herstand

    - How to Make a Living in the Music Business by Vince Wilcox

    - NCS Free Monthly Training – First Monday of each month

    - NCS Community for coaching, connection, and weekly support

    - Upcoming NCS Songwriting Retreat: October 16–18, 2025

    Take the Next Step: Whether you're a hobbyist, a worship leader, or a developing artist, NCS has tools to help you grow. From free resources to deep-dive coaching, you're invited to take one step forward on your songwriting journey.

    Visit nashvillechristiansongwriters.com to learn more, explore our library of past podcast episodes, and access everything from blogs to artist development programs.

    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 - Check out the artists we're working with!

    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!


    MANDY MORRIS: Overcoming Writers Block with EMDR Jun 30, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Host: John Chisum

    Guest: Mandy Morris (Executive Coach, Therapist, EMDR Specialist)

    Episode Title: MANDY MORRIS: Overcoming Writers Block with EMDR

    Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes Mandy Morris, a licensed therapist, executive psychological coach, and EMDR specialist. Together, they explore how trauma, subconscious belief systems, and emotional blocks can interfere with creativity—and how tools like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help artists, songwriters, and leaders break through creative roadblocks and limiting mindsets.

    Mandy shares powerful insights into the connection between childhood wiring and adult patterns, how subconscious beliefs shape behavior, and why understanding your emotional makeup is key to unlocking lasting creative freedom. The episode even includes a brief, live EMDR demo where Mandy guides John through a real-time experience of clearing emotional tension.

    Whether you're feeling stuck creatively, battling imposter syndrome, or just looking for new ways to access your most authentic work, this episode will offer hope, clarity, and practical tools for healing and breakthrough.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    How subconscious beliefs formed in childhood influence adult creativity and behavior

    The difference between conscious and subconscious thinking

    How trauma—even small moments—can impact long-term performance and identity

    Why "writer's block" is often a symptom of unresolved emotional patterns

    What EMDR is and how it can help you rewire your brain for breakthrough

    How to begin healing from the past to access greater peace and productivity

    Key Topics Covered:

    What executive psychological coaching is and how it can help creatives and leaders

    How EMDR works and why it's effective for emotional healing

    The false messages we carry from childhood and how to rewrite them

    Why not all creative blocks are craft-related—many are emotional

    How bilateral stimulation helps calm the nervous system and open new pathways

    Practical advice for songwriters and creatives to process anxiety, fear of failure, and shame

    Try It Yourself: Mandy walks John through a live mini-EMDR session focused on the fear of failure. The brief but effective tapping sequence provides a glimpse into how physical and neurological techniques can bring emotional relief and mental clarity—even in just a few minutes.

    Closing Thought: You don't have to stay stuck. Creativity can be restored, and healing is possible. When you clear the emotional clutter, your best work—and your truest self—can finally come through.

    Resources & Links:

    Learn more about Mandy Morris and her work

    https://mandyemorris.com/

    Try the So Free app (currently in beta), designed to reset your nervous system in two minutes

    https://www.getsofree.com/

    NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

    https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/


    SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert Jun 23, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Episode Title: SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert

    Host: John Chisum

    Episode Summary: In this deeply moving episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes recording artist and worship leader Sarah Kroger for an honest conversation about faith, identity, songwriting, and spiritual wilderness. With a contemplative heart and a background shaped by Catholic tradition, Sarah shares how her latest album A New Reality was birthed in a season of silence and questioning.

    Together, John and Sarah explore what it means to embrace mystery in the Christian life, the importance of living in the present moment, and how belovedness can become an anchor in seasons of darkness. They also discuss the role of co-writing in Sarah's journey, her musical influences, and the inspiration behind standout tracks like "Galaxies," "Ghost," and the beloved fan-favorite "Belovedness."

    Whether you're navigating your own spiritual desert or longing to write from a deeper place, this episode offers a rich well of encouragement, authenticity, and insight.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • How Sarah Kroger discovered her identity as a songwriter through co-writing
    • Why gratitude and presence are key to thriving as an artist
    • The inspiration and impact of her song "Belovedness"
    • How contemplative authors like Henri Nouwen shaped her spiritual growth
    • Why living in mystery may be the most authentic form of faith
    • Real talk on spiritual silence, deconstruction, and creative perseverance

    Key Moments: [01:09] – John welcomes listeners and introduces Sarah Kroger [03:34] – Sarah on gratitude, presence, and the joy of doing what she loves [05:56] – The early passion for music and discovering co-writing [10:24] – Influences from Nouwen, Merton, and Catholic mysticism [13:06] – John and Sarah discuss spiritual darkness and the mystery of God [17:03] – "I am with you always" as a theme through the desert [23:39] – Letting go of old faith feelings and embracing radical immediacy [29:01] – Practicing presence and the discipline of stillness [31:14] – The story behind "Belovedness" and Sarah's devotional book [36:39] – Exploring "Galaxies" and the divine image within us [38:40] – Writing "Ghost" and choosing sacred, traditional language [40:17] – John reflects on Sarah's album and the beauty of authenticity

    Resources & Links:

    Order Sarah Kroger's devotional Belovedness: Overcoming Your Inner Critic https://sarahkroger.com

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

    Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community


    JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and the Unforgettable Titles (Part 2) Jun 16, 2025
    Show notes

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

    Episode Title: JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and the Power of Journaling (Part 2)

    Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

    Episode Summary: In this follow-up to their previous conversation on song concepts, John Chisum and Bryant Urich dive deeper into the craft of generating unforgettable song ideas and titles. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, they explore how journaling, active listening, and intentional creativity can transform your songwriting from empty to inspired.

    John shares lessons learned from his mentors, including Bill and Gloria Gaither, and offers a candid story about missing a major publishing opportunity—proving the importance of doing your homework and understanding your audience. Bryant weighs in with examples from his work in Eauclaire and producing artists through NCS Collective, offering real-world insight on refining ideas and developing a unique artistic voice.

    If you've ever struggled to turn inspiration into impact, this episode will help you understand why writing regularly, listening broadly, and collaborating openly are key to leveling up as a Christian songwriter.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why journaling is essential for developing your lyric writing voice
    • How to find original titles through fragments and lyrical observation
    • The value of co-writing and rewriting to create unique songs
    • Why great songs start with specificity and universality
    • How to listen eclectically and study modern songwriting
    • Real examples from NCS Collective, Eauclaire, and more

    Key Moments: [02:14] – Heaven on Earth Festival preview (Moab, Utah, July 16) [05:03] – Why unforgettable titles are the core of every great song [06:48] – Lessons from Bill Gaither on writing timeless lyrics [10:23] – How journaling sharpens your creative vocabulary [12:15] – John's missed opportunity with Chicken Soup for the Soul [14:20] – The cost of not knowing your creative context [16:57] – How melody and rhyme stick with us from childhood [17:57] – Discovering your personal writing voice through journaling [21:34] – Getting inspired by song fragments and rhythmic feel [25:26] – How "Hold On Me" evolved from a beat to a finished track [27:13] – Why spiritual inspiration must still be crafted and refined [30:17] – Balancing nostalgia with modern sound in production [31:40] – The Spotify sweep: a tool to stay current with your genre [33:53] – Creativity is fueled by what you're consuming [35:12] – How NCS Collective artists are succeeding with strong foundations

    Resources & Links:

    Register for Heaven on Earth Festival (July 16–19, Moab, UT) https://heavenonearthfestival.com

    Listen to Eauclaire's single "You Me the Kids" https://lnk.to/e-YouMetheKids

    Check out "Hold On Me" by John Chisum feat. Phoebe Scott https://open.spotify.com/track/6KAJV2RHqfVcVcBN7heJIF?si=7bcc3352eb2e4064

    Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get your free guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

    Start your 14-day free trial with NCS Community https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

    Explore Pro Song Mastery – Next group opens July 7 https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/psm

    Have questions? Contact: info@nashvillechristiansongwriters.com


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