Song Revolution with John Chisum

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Episode Title: CLARK BECKHAM: Micro Moments of Flow State   Hosts: John Chisum   Guest: Clark Beckham - American Idol Season 14 Runner-Up, Soul/R&B Artist, Educator, Host of Idol Breakdown   Episode Summary: Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! Thank you for joining us for Song Revolution. As we gear up for season 4 we wanted to share just a few of our favorite episodes from 2025. Enjoy!   In this powerful episode, John sits down with acclaimed vocalist and musician Clark Beckham to unpack his journey from street performer to American Idol fame. Clark opens up about the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, how his faith shapes his artistry, and why he believes Jesus loves the complexity found in music—yes, even a flat five.   You'll also hear about Clark's passion for music education, the emotional weight of critiquing performers on his Idol Breakdown series, and why it's perfectly normal to not feel obsessed with your art every single day.   Key Takeaways: Clark's honest experience as runner-up on American Idol Why he sees music as a competition with yourself The story behind "Jesus Loves the Flat Five" How faith, love, and genuine care translate in the entertainment world The difference between worship as a genre vs. worship as a personal practice Why it's okay not to feel creative every day—and why you should keep going anyway The purpose behind Idol Breakdown and how he handles criticism responsibly Demystifying music theory through Clark's online courses   Quotable Moments:  "Excuses are just permission slips for mediocrity." "God is the author of art. And when we express emotions through it, He's in it." "You don't follow your passion. You work really hard to get good, and passion follows." "Jesus loves complexity. He loves art. He loves the flat five."   RESOURCES & LINKS ClarkBeckham.com   Get Involved with NCS: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training 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: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3 Host: John Chisum EPISODE TITLE: NIKI LOU SAVICH: Songs Born From Poetry EPISODE SUMMARY: In this heartfelt episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with longtime friend, songwriter, and Americana/folk artist Niki Lou Savich to reflect on her remarkable creative and spiritual journey. Once an international model, poet, caregiver, and therapist, Niki shares how songwriting unexpectedly emerged from her poetry during a deeply emotional season of life. She tells the story of discovering Nashville Christian Songwriters, attending her first retreat, and slowly growing from a poet with notebooks full of lyrics into a recording artist with two full-length albums. Together, John and Niki explore grief, faith, courage, artistry, and the patient, step-by-step process of becoming an artist later in life. This episode is a powerful reminder that God often brings songs from places we never planned—and that it's never too late to say yes to the call. EPISODE TOPICS: • Niki's transition from poetry to songwriting• Discovering songwriting through an unexpected creative moment• Attending her first NCS retreat and falling in love with the craft• Learning melody, structure, and song form without a musical background• Writing songs born from grief, loss, and lament• The death of Niki's parents and how sorrow shaped her songwriting voice• Developing confidence as a vocalist and recording artist• Overcoming fear and self-doubt in the studio• The difference between writing for a notebook and releasing songs into the world• Artist development, mentorship, and long-term growth• Finding purpose and obedience beyond age, background, or expectations KEY HIGHLIGHTS: • A song that changed everything: Niki describes the moment a poem unexpectedly came out in full song form—melody, structure, and all—launching her songwriting journey. • From Starbucks parking lots to finished albums:Early coaching sessions took place over Zoom while Niki sat bundled in her car outside Starbucks, learning song structure line by line. • Grief as sacred ground:Following the loss of both parents, Niki's songwriting deepened into raw, biblical lament, producing songs like "Million Tears," "Dry as Bone," and "Valley of Shadow and Light." • Becoming an artist later in life: Niki shares the mental and emotional shift required to believe she could sing her own songs and step into the role of an artist. • Studio courage:Recording her first album was terrifying, but with patient coaching, encouragement, and faith, Niki found her voice and confidence. • Two albums born from obedience:Niki released Million Tears followed by My Offering, both rooted in honesty, humility, and deep spiritual reflection. • A quiet but fierce strength:John reflects on Niki's combination of humility, tenacity, and dependence on God as key ingredients in her artistic growth. FINAL TAKEAWAY: Niki Lou Savich's story is a testament to the beauty that can rise from brokenness. Her journey reminds us that songwriting is not about age, background, or platform—it's about obedience, honesty, and trusting God with the songs He places in our hearts. When we surrender our pain, our fear, and our timing, God can transform even grief into a lasting offering of hope. Connect with Niki Lou Savich: https://nikilousavich.com/ Learn more:Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community. Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025 NCS Collective: Check out our artists! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/  

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Host: John Chisum   Guest: Michael Lee Brown   Episode Title: MICHAEL LEE BROWN: From Broadway to Songwriting   Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, John welcomes singer, songwriter, and Broadway actor Michael Lee Brown, best known for his four-year run in Dear Evan Hansen on Broadway. Michael shares his unexpected journey into the NCS studio, his early beginnings in music, his transition from musical theater to singer-songwriter artistry, and the faith-filled moments that shaped his path. He opens up about the disciplines of acting, the joy and challenge of writing authentically, and why storytelling matters now more than ever. This episode offers inspiration for any creative searching for clarity, direction, and renewed passion in their craft.   Episode Topics: • Michael's early exposure to music and his family's creative influence • The road to Dear Evan Hansen and the meaningful moments that confirmed his path • What it took to perform as Evan, Connor, and Jared • Lessons learned from repetition, preparation, and total immersion in a show • How audience feedback shaped his understanding of the show's impact • Life after Broadway and navigating the post-pandemic creative landscape • Michael's songwriting process for pop and musical theatre • Writing from personal truth versus writing from a character's perspective • John's coaching advice on emotional authenticity in songwriting • The heartfelt inspiration behind Michael's song "Bob's Town" • New music, teaching, and what Michael hopes for in the next season of his career   Key Highlights: • A meaningful Broadway breakthrough: Michael reflects on years of walking past the Music Box Theatre, imagining himself on that stage, long before Dear Evan Hansen moved there. He later discovered a ring used in his first rehearsal was engraved with the Lord's Prayer—one of several moments that affirmed his steps. • Becoming the only actor to play all three major male roles: Michael shares the strategy, training, mental discipline, and repetition required to perform Evan, Connor, and Jared at different times throughout the show's run. • The emotional weight and reward of the work: Letters, conversations with fans, and powerful audience reactions reinforced the deep impact Dear Evan Hansen had on people of all ages. • Songwriting as a window into the soul: Michael describes his usual melody-first writing approach, how musical theatre requires a different process, and the tension between writing catchy songs versus revealing more vulnerable personal truth. • The power of story in "Bob's Town": Michael explains the inspiration behind the song, which honors a man named Bob and the small town that lovingly supported him. The story underscores the beauty of simple kindness and everyday humanity. Looking ahead: Michael is actively auditioning, writing new music, teaching voice and acting, and preparing to release more songs in the coming year.  Resources & Links: Connect with Michael Lee Brown: https://www.michaelleebrown.com/ Learn more: Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community.   Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com   Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community   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   NCS Collective: Check out our artists! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3 Host: John Chisum Episode Title: STOWTOWN WORSHIP: Unity, Legacy, and Worship Episode Summary: In this episode, John welcomes an extraordinary lineup of worship leaders and vocal powerhouses—Alvin Slaughter, Steven McWhirter, and TaRanda Greene—along with the vision behind StowTown Worship's new project, Live from the Iron Manor. What began as a desire to bless worship pastors at the Metro Conference grew into a powerful night of worship, featuring reimagined classics, newly arranged favorites, and cross-generational, cross-genre collaboration. The group discusses the heart behind the project, the importance of unity in the church, breaking down stylistic walls, and stewarding songs that serve real people in real church pews. They also introduce StowTown Resource, a new comprehensive tool designed to equip churches with high-quality arrangements, stems, charts, and orchestrations—including the entire Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir catalog. This episode is rich with testimony, humility, humor, and a deep passion for ministering to God's people through music. Episode Topics: The origins of the StowTown Worship project The spiritual and musical vision behind Live from the Iron Manor Cross-generational worship and breaking down stylistic divides Crafting fresh arrangements of classic worship songs How worship transcends genre, age, and background Memories and legacy moments from Brooklyn Tabernacle Personal ministry journeys, testimonies, and career highlights Capturing the presence of God through united worship The launch of StowTown Resource and what it offers churches Serving people beyond the stage with authenticity and compassion Key Highlights: TaRanda Greene explains how the project began as a simple desire to bless worship pastors and evolved into a full recording featuring a powerhouse lineup. Alvin Slaughter reflects on his 35 years of ministry, Brooklyn Tabernacle roots, and renewed inspiration for recording again. Steven McWhirter shares the real-life basement moment behind "Come Jesus Come" and the humility surrounding his recent Dove Award win. The team discusses why songs must serve the hearts of real congregations, not just the stage or the worship industry. Fresh arrangements of classics like "Holy, Holy, Holy," "Heart of Worship," and "For God So Loved" were intentionally shaped to break down denominational and stylistic walls. The room of worship pastors at the Metro Conference became an active choir—captured on the live recording. StowTown Resource officially launches, offering charts, stems, orchestrations, rehearsal tools, and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir catalog all in one place. A strong emphasis emerges: unity, sincerity, and a kingdom mindset must drive modern worship ministry. Final Takeaway At its core, the StowTown Worship project reflects a simple truth: worship is about people encountering God—together. Whether through timeless hymns, brand-new songs, or powerful reimagined arrangements, what matters most is unity, authenticity, and a heart that serves the church. The night at the Iron Manor captured this beautifully, and the launch of StowTown Resource ensures that churches everywhere can carry that same spirit into their own worship ministries.   Resources & Links: Keep up with StowTown Worship! https://stowtownrecords.com/stowtown-worship   Learn more: Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community. Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community 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 NCS Collective: Check out our artists! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Host: John Chisum & Bryant Urich Episode Title: JOHN CHISUM: The Craft of Christmas Songwriting   Episode Summary: In this festive episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum and co-host Bryant Urich dive into the art and craft of writing Christmas songs. From exploring why holiday music resonates so deeply to analyzing the lyrical and musical trends behind the world's biggest Christmas hits, this conversation is packed with practical ideas, humor, and real-world insights for songwriters.   John and Bryant discuss everything from nostalgic memories and classic hymns to modern Christmas pop, offering guidance on how to approach seasonal songwriting with authenticity, originality, and skill. Whether you're crafting a worshipful Advent ballad or a fun, hooky holiday pop song, this episode equips you with tools to write songs that truly connect.   Key Topics & Highlights: Why Christmas songs matter and how nostalgia, memory, and emotion fuel their impact Lyrical themes of top Christmas songs based on research and data Musical traits that dominate Christmas hits including major keys, sleigh bells, and swing feels Using sensory details to make lyrics more vivid and relatable Finding original ideas by drawing from personal memories, traditions, and real experiences Analyzing classics and modern hits from Bing Crosby to Mariah Carey Using hymnals and older carols as starting points for new song ideas The importance of strong hooks and pre-writing in seasonal songwriting Why great Christmas songs evoke emotion first and facts second The role of chord extensions (like major 7ths) in creating a warm, wistful holiday sound Why many artists write Christmas music in the middle of the year and what that teaches about discipline Encouragement for writers who want to grow in skill, craft, and confidence   Final Thought Christmas songs endure because they make us feel something. Whether you're writing from nostalgia, faith, longing, or joy, the key is to create with intentionality and skill. When you pair heartfelt inspiration with craftsmanship, your holiday songs can stand out, connect deeply, and carry meaning far beyond the season.   Resources & Links:   Learn more: Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community.   Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com   Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community   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   NCS Collective: Check out our artists! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/