“My biggest thing, since I was a kid, has been authenticity. I think you can write a song that means something to just you, and that, most of the time, will end up relating to most people. They might not have lived that story, but they can relate it to
“There’s a difference between a dream and a fantasy. A dream is something you’re willing to take some steps towards… you just cannot help but go hard after it.” In episode 76, John tackles the burning question on the mind of nearly every songwriter who desires to reach a larger
“Let the excellence of your work be your protest” In episode 75, John sits down with veteran songwriter, author, and Bible scholar, Michael Card. Michael has recorded over 37 albums, authored over 27 books, hosted a radio program, and written for a wide range of magazines. While he has penned
“This isn’t about what I want to say or what I think, the song has to be about what people want to hear” In Episode 74, John Chisum sits down with veteran songwriter, Sue C. Smith. Sue has written 15 #1 songs, including “Mourning Into Dancing” (The Bowlings) in March
The legacy of Integrity Music is unparalleled in the world. Begun as a subscription series out of New Wine Magazine in the 1970’s, the Hosanna! Music series has sold millions of recordings and changed the face of worship forever, becoming the basis upon which hundreds of nations have built their
“Allow time for a discovery period at the beginning of a co-write” You rarely see a song these days with just one writer. Especially in Christian music and the world of corporate worship. In Episode 72, John goes in depth into the process of co-writing, what it looks like in
“Write what you know. Be as honest as you can and use your experience. Don’t try to be someone else.” In episode 71, John Chisum sits down to chat all things artistry and songwriting with Josh Wilson. This Texas-native started playing piano at nine years old, then took up guitar
“When we are writing songs that connect people to God, part of that process is pushing fear out of the way” In episode 70, John sits down with Worship Leader and Songwriter, Chris McClarney. Chris grew up in the church as the son of a Youth Pastor and met Jesus
“Write from your heart because we all have a story that we can tell” In episode 69, John Chisum sits down with songwriter, worship leader, actor, and composer, Jesse Pruett. Jesse is currently on staff as Worship Arts Pastor in Lake Havasu City, Arizona and when he’s not there, he’s
“This whole art endeavor that we’re involved with as songwriters is an amazing combination of your whole life. Bring all that you are to your songs” In episode 68, John wraps up a 5 part series on “Writing Hit Hooks” with one of the most important, yet difficult to master
