Song Revolution with John Chisum

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
 
TITLE: JOHN CHISUM: Is Your Song Ready?
 
HOSTS: John Chisum
 
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John continues exploring the NCS Complete Songwriting Guide with Theme #2: Taking Your Work from Demo to the World. He walks songwriters through the essential stages of music production—from simple voice memos to professional master recordings—and explains how each level serves a specific purpose in developing and sharing your songs.
John emphasizes that songwriting success isn't about rushing into expensive studio recordings but about progressing wisely through each stage. He discusses the importance of capturing ideas quickly with work demos, developing songs through home demos, and only investing in professional production after a song has been tested and proven to resonate with listeners.
Along the way, John addresses the role of technology and AI in modern songwriting, offering practical wisdom on how tools can support creativity without replacing authentic songwriting. This episode provides a clear roadmap for moving your songs from inspiration to impact—helping songwriters steward both their creativity and their resources wisely.
 
EPISODE TOPICS
Introduction to Theme #2: Taking Your Work from Demo to the World
The three levels of song production
Understanding the purpose of work demos
Using voice memos to capture songwriting ideas
Developing songs through home demo recordings
Deciding whether to build a home studio or hire professionals
Avoiding costly mistakes in professional production
Knowing when a song is ready for studio investment
Using AI tools wisely in the demo process
Releasing music to digital service providers (DSPs)
Stewarding time, money, and creativity wisely
Testing songs before committing to major production
 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Understanding the Three Levels of Production:
John outlines the progression from work demos to home demos to professional master recordings. Each level serves a distinct purpose, helping songwriters move gradually from idea to polished release.
Start with Simple Work Demos:
A work demo—often just a voice memo—captures melody and lyrics quickly before inspiration fades. The goal isn't perfection, but clarity and preservation of ideas.
Home Demos Help Develop the Song:
Home recordings allow songwriters to experiment with arrangements and instrumentation. However, John cautions writers to carefully weigh the time and learning curve involved in building technical production skills.
Choose Your Focus Wisely:
Songwriters must decide where to invest their time—becoming engineers or becoming better writers. While some can do both, many benefit from focusing primarily on songwriting craft.
Avoid Expensive Production Too Soon:
John shares cautionary stories of songwriters investing thousands of dollars into unproven songs. He stresses that professional recordings should come only after songs have been refined and validated through feedback.
Test Songs Before Investing:
Before moving to high-level production, songwriters should seek feedback and ensure their songs resonate with listeners. A proven song is far more deserving of financial investment.
Using AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement:
AI tools can help generate demo versions of songs when the melody and lyrics are already written. However, John emphasizes maintaining integrity by ensuring the creative foundation remains authentically human.
Understanding Master Recordings:
If you plan to release music on streaming platforms, you'll need a master recording that meets professional quality standards. This level of production represents the final stage of sharing your music with the world.
 
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Every song deserves a thoughtful journey from idea to impact.
Don't rush into expensive production before your songs are ready. Start by capturing ideas simply, develop them carefully, test them with others, and invest wisely when the time is right. When you move intentionally through each stage, your songs have the best chance to connect with listeners and make a lasting difference.
 
RESOURCES & LINKS:
 
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
 
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
 
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
 
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
 
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
 
TITLE: JOHN CHISUM: Are You Drifting as a Songwriter?
 
HOSTS: John Chisum
 
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John introduces Theme #1 from the brand-new NCS Complete Songwriting Guide—the call to become an intentional Christian songwriter. Rather than writing sporadically or waiting for inspiration to strike, John challenges songwriters to develop a clear plan, take consistent steps forward, and steward their calling with purpose.
Drawing from decades of songwriting experience, John shares how many writers dream of being heard on radio, in churches, or around the world—but often lack the intentional habits necessary to get there. He explains why lasting growth doesn't happen through giant leaps, but through small, faithful steps taken consistently over time.
This episode lays the foundation for the upcoming themes in the guide, encouraging songwriters to move beyond hobby-level creativity and step into purposeful development. It's a motivating and practical call to stop drifting and start growing as a songwriter who writes with vision, discipline, and faith.
 
EPISODE TOPICS
Introduction to the NCS Complete Songwriting Guide
Theme #1: Becoming an intentional Christian songwriter
Why many songwriters stay stuck without a clear plan
The difference between dreaming and doing
Taking incremental steps toward songwriting growth
Moving from hobbyist thinking to purposeful development
Investing time, energy, and resources into your calling
Developing spiritual and creative discipline
Creating momentum through small, consistent actions
Building a long-term vision for your songwriting journey
 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Introducing the NCS Complete Songwriting Guide:
John shares the heart behind creating an 80-page resource designed to help Christian songwriters take meaningful, practical steps toward growth. The guide outlines 12 essential themes to help writers develop both skill and purpose.
Intentional Songwriting Starts with a Plan:
Many songwriters have dreams but lack structure. John emphasizes that growth requires intention—setting goals, creating rhythms, and making songwriting a priority rather than an afterthought.
Small Steps Lead to Big Results:
Instead of trying to make giant leaps, songwriters are encouraged to focus on consistent, manageable actions. Incremental growth builds confidence, skill, and long-term momentum.
From Hobby to Calling:
Writing songs casually can be fulfilling, but those who feel called to share their message more broadly must treat songwriting as a discipline worth investing in.
Feed Your Mind and Spirit:
True growth happens when songwriters nurture both their creative skills and their spiritual lives—drawing inspiration from the Holy Spirit while developing practical tools.
Get Unstuck by Taking Action:
Waiting for the perfect moment often leads to stagnation. Progress begins when songwriters take the next available step, even if it feels small.
Your Calling Deserves Stewardship:
Songwriting is not just a creative outlet—it's a responsibility. Stewarding your gift well means being intentional about growth, learning, and consistent effort.
 
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Great songwriting doesn't happen by accident—it happens by intention.
If you feel called to write songs that impact others, it's time to move beyond wishful thinking and take purposeful steps forward. Start where you are, make a plan, and commit to steady growth. Over time, small, faithful actions can lead to powerful results in your songwriting and your calling.
 
RESOURCES & LINKS:
 
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
 
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
 
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
 
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
 
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
 
TITLE: PHOEBE SCOTT: Is Inspiration Enough to Write Great Songs?
 
HOSTS: John Chisum
 
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with multi-talented artist, songwriter, top-liner, and coach Phoebe Scott to explore the craft, mindset, and spiritual foundation of songwriting. Phoebe shares her journey from small-town beginnings in West Tennessee to becoming a sought-after top-liner in Nashville, revealing how her early experiences, collaborative songwriting, and creative discipline shaped her career. Together, they dive into songwriting processes, the balance of inspiration and skill, and how faith and intentionality fuel artistry. The episode also includes an improvised songwriting session, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas become songs.
 
EPISODE TOPICS
Phoebe's journey from small-town bands to Nashville songwriting
The role of a top-liner and modern collaborative songwriting
Developing a prolific songwriting practice
Balancing inspiration with skill and discipline
Faith, creativity, and the mindset of a songwriter
Importance of consuming quality art for creative growth
Improvised songwriting exercise: "It's All Good"
 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Phoebe's early co-writing experience in Cooper the Band taught her how to write collaboratively and develop artistic identity.
Explanation of a top-liner's role: helping artists tell their story through melody and lyrics, supporting their vision while keeping songs cohesive.
Insight into how prolific songwriting comes from consistent practice, showing up, and embracing feedback.
Faith-centered perspective: every song already exists in God's creation; the songwriter's role is to be faithful and obedient in arranging it.
Emphasis on input for output: reading, exploring art, and studying culture directly fuels creativity.
Discussion of mindset: success is not only inspiration but showing up consistently, even when ideas feel empty.
Behind-the-scenes songwriting moment where Phoebe and John co-create an improvised chorus, demonstrating collaborative creativity in action.
 
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Songwriting is both a craft and a calling. By combining discipline, creative curiosity, and faith, artists can show up fully—even when inspiration feels scarce—and trust the process to bring songs to life. Collaboration, input from mentors and peers, and a mindset grounded in purpose transform ordinary songwriting sessions into opportunities for growth and meaningful storytelling. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned songwriter, the key is to consistently engage, consume art, and allow God to guide the process, knowing that every step contributes to the song He's already envisioned.
 
RESOURCES & LINKS:
 
Follow along with what Phoebe Scott is doing!
https://www.instagram.com/phoebeisloud/
 
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
 
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
 
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
 
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
 
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
 
TITLE: JOHN CHISUM: Stop Waiting, Start Growing
HOSTS: John Chisum
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John shares a powerful and honest message about the importance of mentoring and coaching in the journey of becoming a great Christian songwriter and artist. Drawing from over four decades in the music industry, John reflects on his own apprenticeship under legendary mentors and how that experience shaped his career.
He challenges common misconceptions around calling, talent, and success—reminding songwriters that passion alone isn't enough. Growth requires intentional investment, humility, and a willingness to learn from those further along in the journey. John also speaks candidly about the realities of the music industry, the value of paying for professional services, and the responsibility artists have to steward their calling with excellence.
This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation—to stop waiting, start growing, and pursue songwriting with discipline, mentorship, and purpose.
 
EPISODE TOPICS
Why mentoring and coaching are essential for songwriting growth
The difference between being "called" and being "ready"
How John's early apprenticeship shaped his entire career
Why talent and passion alone won't make you a great songwriter
The importance of investing time, effort, and money into your craft
Common mindset traps that hold Christian songwriters back
How to evaluate your songs beyond personal or cultural bias
Why surrounding yourself with excellence accelerates growth
 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Mentorship is a biblical and practical pathway to growth
Great songwriting is developed, not assumed
You are responsible for developing and presenting your calling
Feedback, challenge, and accountability are necessary to improve
The question isn't "Am I good enough?"—it's "Am I committed enough to grow?"
Excellence in songwriting requires both inspiration and discipline
 
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Christian songwriting is both a calling and a craft. Passion opens the door, but growth comes from humility, mentorship, and intentional effort. Surround yourself with those who challenge and inspire you, invest in your development, and commit to excellence in every song you write. The journey isn't about proving your talent—it's about stewarding your gift with purpose, discipline, and faithfulness. Start today, seek guidance, and let every step forward bring you closer to the songwriter God has called you to be.
 
Take your next step by downloading the free NCS Complete Songwriting Guide and exploring the coaching and community opportunities available at Nashville Christian Songwriters.
Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to Song Revolution so you never miss an episode.
 
 
RESOURCES & LINKS:
 
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
 
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
 
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
 
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
 
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
 
TITLE: CLARK BECKHAM: Are You Settling For Average?
HOSTS: John Chisum
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with returning guest, artist, and songwriter Clark Beckham for a powerful conversation on artistry, worship, and the pursuit of excellence in songwriting.
From his journey as a finalist on American Idol to becoming an NCS Records artist, Clark shares how his passion for soul, jazz, and expressive musicianship has shaped his unique approach to worship music. The conversation explores the heart behind his Acoustic Worship Sessions project, where familiar worship songs are reimagined through rich chord progressions and deeply personal expression.
Beyond the music, this episode dives into the discipline required to grow as a songwriter and artist. Clark and John unpack the importance of skill development, teachability, and resisting the temptation to settle for mediocrity. This is a compelling and honest look at what it really takes to steward your calling and create music that reflects both excellence and authenticity.
 
EPISODE TOPICS
Clark Beckham's journey from American Idol to NCS Records
The vision behind the acoustic Worship Sessions project
Reimagining worship songs through soul, jazz, and expressive chords
The role of musical skill in honoring God through creativity
Why growth requires discipline, not just desire
Learning from mentors and collapsing the learning curve
The difference between hobbyists and committed songwriters
Overcoming creative passivity and taking action
Worship as both spiritual expression and musical craftsmanship
The balance between congregational accessibility and artistic depth
 
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
A Unique Approach to Worship
Clark shares how his love for soul and jazz naturally flows into his worship leading. Rather than trying to be different, his style is simply the authentic expression of his musical journey and relationship with God.
The Heart Behind Acoustic Worship Sessions
What started organically has become a powerful project—taking well-known worship songs and presenting them in a fresh, intimate, and musically rich way that highlights both skill and sincerity.
God Created Every Chord
Clark challenges the idea that only simple or familiar musical structures are "spiritual." From major chords to complex jazz voicings, all musical beauty ultimately points back to the Creator.
Excellence Is an Offering
Both John and Clark emphasize that pursuing excellence is not about performance or pride—it's about offering God your very best. Growth requires intentional effort, learning, and a willingness to refine your craft.
Stop Talking, Start Growing
A key theme throughout the episode is the difference between wanting to improve and actually doing the work. Real growth comes from discipline, learning from others, and consistently putting in the reps.
Learn from Those Who've Gone Before You
Whether through courses, books, or mentorship, learning from experienced voices can dramatically accelerate growth and help avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Calling Requires Development
Being called does not mean being instantly skilled. Often, the calling itself is an invitation into a process of growth, refinement, and deeper dependence on God.
 
FINAL TAKEAWAY
Your calling is not just about what you create—it's about who you become in the process.
Great songwriting and worship don't come from shortcuts or surface-level effort. They are formed through discipline, humility, and a deep desire to grow. When you commit to developing your craft and offering your best to God, your music becomes more than sound—it becomes a true expression of worship that can impact others in a lasting way.
 
 
RESOURCES & LINKS:
 
Follow what Clark Beckham is up to!
https://clarkbeckham.com/
 
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
 
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
 
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
 
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
 
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/