Song Revolution with John Chisum

• JOHN CHISUM: Inside Music Publishing

  Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Hosts: John Chisum, Claire Bacon, & Bryant Urich   Episode Title: Inside Music Publishing   Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum is joined by Claire Bacon and Bryant Urich from the NCS team for a lively and practical discussion on music publishing. Together, they break down the difference between creative and administrative publishing, share behind-the-scenes stories from Claire’s time at Bethel Music, and explore how co-writing, retreats, and publishing support can shape a songwriter’s career.   The conversation also dives into the DIY side of publishing—what it means to take control of your rights and royalties, how to avoid getting lost in the sea of mediocre songs released every day, and why honing your craft is essential if you want to stand out.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between creative and administrative publishing Why pairing the right writers together makes or breaks a song Stories from Claire’s experience interning at Bethel Music The role of writing retreats and camps in developing strong songs How to DIY your publishing if you don’t have a company backing you Why focusing on quality and intentionality helps your songs stand out   Key Topics & Highlights: Claire’s journey from MTSU to Bethel Music to NCS The matchmaking side of creative publishing and how it shapes songwriting sessions How NCS retreats create powerful co-writing opportunities The challenge of standing out among millions of songs released each year Avoiding vague lyrics and writing with genre and purpose in mind Favorite songwriters and the impact of writers like Mia Fieldes, Cody Carnes, and Benjamin William Hastings   Final Takeaway: Music publishing is more than contracts and royalties—it’s about connection, collaboration, and ensuring your songs have the best chance to thrive. Whether through a publisher or by learning the DIY path, understanding the business side of songwriting is just as important as mastering the craft.   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/

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• ANDREW GREER: Songwriting and Storytelling

  Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Episode Title: ANDREW GREER (part 1): Songwriting and Storytelling   Host: John Chisum   Episode Summary: In this rich and heartfelt conversation, John welcomes singer-songwriter, producer, author, and documentarian Andrew Greer to Song Revolution. From his early days growing up in Texas with music all around him, to his time at Belmont University, and now as a respected artist and filmmaker, Andrew shares how music has always been more than sound—it has been a divine meeting point and a lifelong connection to God.   Andrew opens up about discovering music as collaboration with the Creator, the spiritual weight of art, and how songwriters and storytellers carry the yearning for belonging and acceptance. He and John dive into the mystery of creativity, the intersection of sacred and “secular” art, and the role of music in healing, connection, and co-creation with God. This first part of the interview also explores Andrew’s reflections on growing up with thoughtful parents, his deep love for liner notes, the importance of songwriting beyond categories, and the spiritual resonance of great artists from Joni Mitchell to Roberta Flack.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Andrew’s early encounter with music and its connection to faith How music serves as collaboration with our Creator The difference between original sin and original virtue in shaping our lives Why songwriting is about more than “Christian” or “secular” categories How great art and music point us toward belonging and acceptance Andrew’s insights on the indie music landscape and why it’s a great time for creators   Key Topics & Highlights: The spiritual role of music as connection and belonging How Andrew discovered a calling for songwriting and storytelling at an early age The influence of his parents and church community on shaping his worldview Why labeling art as sacred vs. secular often misses the deeper point Stories from Andrew’s journey at Belmont University and launching into music Insights on how artists like Joni Mitchell, Roberta Flack, and others shaped his perspective Why vulnerability and honesty in songwriting resonate more deeply than formulas   Final Takeaway: At its heart, music is not about categories or success—it is about connection. Whether writing songs, producing stories, or simply listening, music offers us a chance to collaborate with God and remind one another that we belong.     Resources & Links:   Explore Andrew Greer’s work:  https://www.andrew-greer.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/

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• JOHN CHISUM: Music Publishing in 2025

  Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Hosts: John Chisum, Claire Bacon, & Bryant Urich   Episode Title: Music Publishing in 2025   Episode Summary: Season 3 of Song Revolution continues with a practical and eye-opening conversation on one of the most misunderstood topics in the music industry: publishing. Hosts John Chisum, Claire Bacon, and Bryant Urich break down what publishing really means in 2025, how it has changed from the traditional gatekeeper model of the past, and why understanding it is essential for every songwriter.   From copyright protection to royalty collection, from self-publishing to partnering with a publisher, this episode offers clarity and encouragement to help you take control of your songs and your future. If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a publisher, how to register your songs, or how to build the right relationships in the industry, this discussion will give you practical steps forward.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between copyright and publishing How publishing has evolved from gatekeepers to digital access The two sides of publishing: administration vs. creative development Why many songwriters choose self-publishing today What publishers actually do for songwriters How to know if you’re ready for a publishing deal Why relationships matter more than cold submissions How to find community and connection no matter where you live   Key Topics and Highlights: John’s early Nashville days and the old gatekeeper model of publishing Claire’s experience developing writers and matching them in the right rooms Bryant’s perspective on band publishing and handling royalties as a group The importance of building your own foundation before seeking a publisher How marketing and publishing have become two separate tracks Practical steps every songwriter can take on their own: registering songs, networking, showcasing your work, and learning the basics of copyright   Memorable Quotes from the Episode: “Copyright is about protection. Publishing is about getting your song out there.” “A publisher’s job is to elevate what you’re already doing—not create it for you.” “So much of making music today is DIY, and that’s a good thing.” “Publishing isn’t just about royalties—it’s about relationships.”   Final Takeaway: You don’t need a publisher to get started, but you do need to understand publishing. By learning the basics, building relationships, and developing your craft, you’ll be ready when the right opportunities come.   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/

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• MADALYN ROSE: Forgiveness, Faith, and Finding Your Voice

  Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Hosts: John Chisum   Episode Title: MADALYN ROSE: Forgiveness, Faith, and Finding Your Voice   Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down in Moab, Utah, with emerging singer-songwriter Madalyn Rose to talk about her journey through personal loss, rebuilding her life, and finding healing through songwriting. From her Montana roots to worship leading in Colorado, Madalyn shares how grief, forgiveness, and faith have shaped both her music and her outlook on life.   The conversation dives deep into the stories behind her songs, including “See What Grows,” a reflection on the power of letting go, and “Who You Leave Behind,” written for her church’s legacy series. With honesty and warmth, Madalyn recounts pivotal moments—like singing with Allen Stone at the Heaven on Earth Festival—that affirmed her calling and opened unexpected doors.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How personal tragedy can shape songwriting and deepen artistry Why forgiveness is key to emotional and spiritual freedom The backstory of “See What Grows” and “Who You Leave Behind” How to stay open to God’s leading in creative and personal decisions The role of community and connection in sustaining an artist’s journey Why saying “yes” to small promptings can lead to life-changing moments   Key Topics and Highlights: Navigating the loss of her mother and the breakdown of her marriage in the same season Choosing forgiveness over bitterness and the spiritual transformation it sparked The inspiration and meaning behind “See What Grows” How a leap of faith at the Heaven on Earth Festival led to performing with Allen Stone Balancing worship leading, songwriting, and motherhood The story of receiving a dream guitar through an unexpected act of generosity Trusting God to weave together opportunities and connections in His timing   Quotes from the Episode: “Forgiveness is the only path to freedom we have.” “I didn’t mean it when I said it, but the Lord started doing a work in my heart.” “God saved me from building up walls.”   Final Takeaway: Your story, no matter how painful, can become a song that touches others. By choosing forgiveness, staying tenderhearted, and following God’s quiet nudges, you open the door for beauty to grow from brokenness.   Resources & Links:   Follow Madalyn Rose on Instagram: @iammadalynrose Listen to Madalyn’s music on Spotify & Apple Music under Madalyn Rose https://linktr.ee/madalynnrosemusic      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/

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• JOHN CHISUM: Time, Tithe, and Talent

  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/

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