Song Revolution with John Chisum

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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

Latest Episodes:

ANYA LEE: A True Resurrection Story Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Guest: Anya Lee

Episode Title: ANYA LEE: A True Resurrection Story

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes singer-songwriter Anya Lee, an NCS coaching graduate who has transformed her calling into a thriving music career. Anya shares her incredible near-death experience on the Appalachian Trail, the divine wake-up call she received, and how it pushed her to fully pursue music ministry.

A pastor's kid who always loved music, Anya struggled with putting herself out there as an artist. But after her miraculous survival, she could no longer ignore the burning desire God placed in her heart. She took action, joined NCS coaching, and is now releasing impactful Christian music, including her latest single, Simple.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How a near-death experience changed Anya's life and mission
The journey from hobbyist songwriter to professional artist
The power of saying yes to your calling—even when it's scary
How NCS coaching & artist development helped launch her career
Behind the scenes of her new music & upcoming projects

Key Moments: [02:24] – Meet Anya Lee: A journey from Michigan to Nashville

[03:42] – Her background in music & early struggles

[05:33] – Hiking the Appalachian Trail—and the moment she died [07:10] – A miraculous rescue and a divine calling confirmed [14:50] – Waking up with an undeniable hunger to create music [19:26] – How she found NCS coaching & artist development

[25:45] – Overcoming fear & investing in herself [29:34] – The songwriting process & working with Nashville producers [32:48] – Learning to say yes to every opportunity

[33:43] – Her new single Simple & what's next for Anya Lee

Resources & Links: Listen to Anya Lee's music!

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3usfgEYK074SW87NR2uKjo

Follow Anya Lee on Instagram – @itsmeanyalee

Get Involved with NCS:

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!

JASON LOVINS BAND: 20 Years of Music on Mission Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Guest: Jason Lovins (Jason Lovins Band)

Episode Title: JASON LOVINS: 20 Years of Music on a Mission

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with Jason Lovins, the leader of the Jason Lovins Band, to discuss his incredible journey in Christian music, his powerful personal story, and his 20-year ministry.

Jason shares how growing up in a small-town church in West Virginia led to an unexpected encounter with Michael W. Smith, which opened his eyes to contemporary Christian music. He also reflects on the pivotal moment he realized he was called to lead worship. But perhaps the most impactful part of Jason's story is how he came into the world—his mother, just 15 years old, was raped and became pregnant. Rather than choosing abortion, she and Jason's grandmother trusted God and chose life. Today, Jason's testimony is bringing hope and healing to countless people.

If you've ever struggled with understanding your calling or wondered how God can use your story for His glory, this episode will encourage and inspire you.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How one "yes" at a time led Jason to a 20-year music career
The moment Jason discovered contemporary Christian music
How he knew he was called to lead worship
The impact of his band's new album, Pilgrim Road
Jason's powerful personal story and how it's transforming lives
How God uses our stories and testimonies to change hearts

Key Moments: [02:27] – Discovering CCM & Michael W. Smith's influence [06:01] – How Jason's band started in college and grew [10:22] – The moment he realized he was called to lead worship [17:43] – How his personal story became a ministry [22:00] – His mother's decision to say yes to life [24:30] – How sharing his story is impacting others [30:15] – How pregnancy care centers are using his testimony [31:28] – The future of Jason Lovins Band & what's next

Connect with Jason Lovins Band Listen to Jason Lovins Band's new album Pilgrim Road

https://www.jasonlovins.com/

Follow Jason Lovins Band – @JasonLovinsBand

Get Involved with NCS:

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: Develop Your Mission as a Songwriter Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

Episode Title: Develop Your Mission as a Songwriter

Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich continue the conversation on finding and developing your mission as a Christian songwriter and artist. Many songwriters feel called to share their music, but struggle with clarity on who they're writing for and how to effectively reach their audience.

John and Bryant break down the importance of defining your mission, building a support network, and investing in your craft to take your songwriting and artistry to the next level. They also discuss the various NCS programs available to help songwriters grow—from the One Song Challenge to full-scale Artist Development.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How to clarify your mission as a songwriter and artist
The importance of writing with intentionality
Why developing your audience and support network is key
How to avoid costly production mistakes by refining your songs first
The step-by-step process of going from songwriter to artist
How NCS coaching can help you fast-track your growth

Key Moments: [02:49] – Finding your mission: Why clarity matters [05:53] – Defining your audience and writing with purpose [10:27] – What we can learn from artists like Lauren Daigle & Newsboys [15:40] – The value of community and mentorship in songwriting [19:49] – NCS Community: 52 weeks of coaching and collaboration [21:36] – Deep-dive into the Pro Song Mastery Group Coaching program [26:10] – Why great songwriting matters more than expensive production [31:28] – Real-life transformation: How coaching helps songwriters discover their calling [38:17] – Investing in your artistry: How to launch your career the right way

Get Involved with NCS:

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!

OUT OF EDEN: Iconic 90's Trio Returns Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Special Guests: Out of Eden (Lisa, Danielle, and Andrea)

Episode Title: Out of Eden - Iconic 90's Trio Returns

Episode Summary:

In this very special episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes the legendary Out of Eden, the pioneering R&B/gospel trio that helped shape Christian contemporary music in the '90s. Sisters Lisa, Danielle, and Andrea Kimmey are back 30 years after their debut, celebrating their journey with a brand-new version of Bill Withers' classic "Lovely Day" and a fresh EP that reimagines their most beloved songs.

Join us as they share their story, what they've been up to since their last album, and why now was the perfect time for their musical comeback. Plus, they discuss songwriting, faith, motherhood, and the challenges of today's music industry.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How TobyMac and Goatee Records launched Out of Eden's career
Why the group stepped away from music in the mid-2000s
The inspiration behind their new version of "Lovely Day"
A sneak peek into their upcoming EP and original music
Reflections on faith, family, and rediscovering their musical calling
How social media has changed the music industry and artist promotion
Advice for aspiring artists and songwriters on staying creative and faithful

Key Moments: [01:14] – Out of Eden's legacy and their 30-year reunion [03:54] – Life after music: careers, family, and new callings [17:28] – The story behind their first record deal with Goatee Records [22:44] – The moment they knew it was time for a comeback [23:39] – Why they chose to remake "Lovely Day" [31:25] – A deep dive into their new EP and songwriting process [36:08] – Navigating the challenges of social media as artists [42:45] – Will Out of Eden go back on tour? [43:36] – Encouragement for aspiring artists and songwriters

Check out OUT OF EDEN:

Listen to Out of Eden's new single "Lovely Day"

https://lnk.to/OOE

Follow Out of Eden on Instagram & Facebook – @OutofEdenOfficial

Get Involved with NCS:

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: Finding Your Mission As A Christian Artist Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

Episode Title: Finding Your Mission as a Christian Artist

Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich dive into the heart of finding your mission as a Christian artist and songwriter. Whether you're a singer, songwriter, producer, or worship leader, understanding your calling and artistic mission is essential to creating impactful, God-inspired music.

John and Bryant share their own journeys in music, from early inspirations to developing their artistry over the years. They also provide practical steps to help you identify your unique creative calling and how to bring your musical gifts into alignment with God's purpose for your life.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How your natural musical inclinations point to your calling
The role of desire and passion in discovering your mission
Why life experiences shape the message of your music
The importance of investing in your talent and development
How to overcome common struggles in pursuing your calling

Key Moments: [02:55] – John & Bryant's early musical influences and upbringing [07:01] – The formative moments that shaped their calling [14:02] – The importance of natural talent and artistic leanings [19:04] – Developing your musical gifts through training & experience [26:07] – The power of desire—understanding God's call through passion [32:56] – How life experiences shape and refine your mission [38:41] – The value of patience and long-term artistic growth [41:46] – What's coming next on Song Revolution

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!

JOHN CHISUM: How Real Studio Production Works Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

Episode Title: How Real Studio Production Works

Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich take you behind the scenes of music production, showing exactly how a song evolves from a rough demo to a fully produced master recording. Whether you're recording at home or working with a professional studio, you'll learn the step-by-step process of layering instruments, arranging tracks, and creating a polished final mix. Using the song To You Forever by Ezra Worship, they break down the elements of production—from initial voice memo recordings to full-band, radio-ready masters.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: The difference between a work tape, home demo, and master recording How instruments are layered in modern worship production The role of digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro and GarageBand The importance of vocal mixing, harmonies, and effects Why having a clear vision for your song before production is crucial Tips for songwriters looking to start home recording

Key Moments: [02:19] – Recap of February's focus on music production [04:14] – What happens after you record a work demo? [06:48] – Listening to the raw work tape of To You Forever [09:09] – Why having a clear vision for your song is critical [12:58] – Recording drums: Microphone setup and tracking process [17:06] – Layering guitars, bass, and synths for a full-band sound [23:31] – Mixing and enhancing vocals for a polished sound [30:59] – Should you produce music yourself or hire a pro? [33:17] – The importance of finding your creative community

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!

JOHN CHISUM: Writing Production Ready Songs Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

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!

COBY JAMES: Home Studio Production Tips Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

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!

JOHN CHISUM: From Your Work Demo To The World Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

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!

GALEN CREW: To China with Love Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

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: