GREG NELSON: Finding Success Through Humility
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Release Date: 02/02/2019
SETH & NIRVA: Courage, Compassion, and the Gospel
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Hey everybody! Welcome back to Song Revolution. It's an absolute joy to be here with you once again, bringing you fresh inspiration and encouragement to help you live a better life. Today, we have a captivating duo in our midst – Seth and Nirva Ready. Nirva, once a dancer and singer for Toby Mac, brings a wealth of behind-the-scenes stories, while Seth's journey from his Mississippi roots led him to share the stage with gospel legends such as Kirk Franklin and Donnie McClurkin. Stay tuned as we dive into these captivating stories, offering a glimpse into the life of artists who are not just...
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GEORGE & CAROL GODWIN: Ezra Worship Initiative
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Song Revolution podcast with John Chisum, brought to you by the NRT network. This episode features George and Carol Godwin, co-directors of the Ezra Worship Initiative, hailing from Decatur, Alabama. The conversation revolves around the unique and transformative experiences offered by the Ezra Worship Initiative – an internship program designed for college-age, bi vocational worship leaders. The program not only focuses on the musical aspects of worship but also incorporates theology, leadership, audio, technology, and musicianship, providing a holistic...
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JOHN CHISUM: New Year, New You, New Songs
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Welcome back to Song Revolution. Happy new year! Welcome to a new episode of the Song Revolution podcast with John Chisum, presented by the NRT network. In this 2024 episode, John, alongside his right-hand man Bryant Ulrich, kickstarts the New Year with a focus on songwriting and community building in the Christian music world. Celebrating their ninth year as Nashville Christian Songwriters, they share their journey, the growth of their podcast, and the evolution of their programs. This episode delves into the past seven years of Bryant's journey in Nashville, from his arrival with aspirations...
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JOHN CHISUM: Why the World Needs Your Best Christmas Songs Now
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Join us in this special Christmas edition of the Song Revolution podcast with John Chisum, where we delve into the art and soul of Christian songwriting. In this episode, John shares his insights and personal journey in the world of music, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth in songwriting. He discusses the transformative power of songs in living a better life and connecting more deeply with God's love, regardless of whether you're a songwriter or not. Special highlights include a retrospective of the year's best episodes, insightful...
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DARA MACLEAN: Love Over Religion
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Welcome back to Song Revolution. Today's episode is a special treat. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dara Maclean, a visionary artist at the intersection of music and ministry. This episode takes you behind the scenes of Dara's latest album, "River.” It delves into her artistic journey, exploring the depths of her music that aims to ignite internal revival and pursuit of wholeness. From discussing the nuances of songs like “Love Over Religion” to sharing her experiences with Gateway Worship, Dara's insights offer a refreshing perspective on spirituality and creativity. Don't...
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PHIL & HEATHER JOEL: Honoring God by Caring for His Creation
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Greetings, wonderful folks! Welcome back to Song Revolution. Today's episode is a special treat as we're joined by the incredible Phil Joel and his equally amazing wife, Heather Joel. Now, you probably know Phil as the enduring force behind the Christian rock band, Newsboys. But here's the scoop—his talents extend far beyond music. We've got something truly unique for you in this episode, recorded live on the grounds of Joel's latest venture. Enter , a haven of eco-friendliness and sustainable living nestled right in the heart of downtown Franklin, Tennessee. While Phil is no...
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MICHAEL BETHANY: Gateway Worship Leader on Prayer, Accountability, and Celebrating Recovery
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Hey everybody! Welcome back to Song Revolution. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Christian songwriter and Gateway Worship leader, Michael Bethany, a Stellar Award-nominated songwriter and two-time BMI Christian Song Award recipient. Hailing from Gateway Music at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, Michael wears multiple hats as a singer, songwriter, producer, and recording artist. During his remarkable career, Michael has collaborated with musical greats such as Fred Hammond, Mitch Wong, Leeland Mooring, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Tamela Mann, and more. His passion goes...
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PETRINA PACHECO: The Stories Behind The Music
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Hey everybody! Join your host John Chisum as we uncover the captivating stories behind the music. In this special episode of the Song Revolution Podcast, we sit down with the talented artist, Petrina Pacheco. Petrina's melodies and lyrics have touched the hearts of many, and in this conversation, she opens up about the inspirations that drive her creative process. From life's highs to its challenges, we delve deep into the emotional and artistic landscape that defines her music. Get ready to be inspired as we explore the artistry, passion, and resilience that have propelled Petrina Pacheco to...
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JOHN CHISUM: 40 Years of Music Making
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Welcome to the Song Revolution Podcast! Today, we invite you to embark on an extraordinary musical journey as we pay tribute to our host and iconic artist, John Chisum, and his remarkable 40-year career in music. In this special episode, we'll delve deep into the life and legacy of John Chisum, a true music visionary whose passion for creating soul-stirring melodies and compelling lyrics has captivated audiences worldwide. Join us as we uncover the pivotal moments that shaped John Chisum's artistic journey, the inspiration behind his timeless songs, and the collaborations that have left an...
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RYAN STEVENSON: Still in the Eye of the Storm
Song Revolution with John Chisum
Welcome back to Song Revolution, where we explore the world of music and connect with extraordinary artists. I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to sit down with Ryan Stevenson, the talented musician behind the chart-topping hit "Eye of the Storm." In our conversation, we went beyond his lightning-strike start in Christian music and delved into the present moments that shape his soulful journey. We discussed his latest record, "Able," and the heartfelt inspiration behind it, including how Ryan experiences the intimate presence of God. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music,...
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“It’s God that orders our steps. If you want to enjoy success, don’t chase after the market, chase after God.” - Greg Nelson
This week on The Song Revolution Podcast, John Chisum had the honor of sitting with award-winning Christian Music Producer, Greg Nelson. Greg has produced recordings for artists such as Sandi Patty, Steve Green, Larnelle Harris, Twila Paris, Michael Crawford, and Richard Smallwood. He has received 20 Dove Awards and over 30 nominations, 7 Grammy Awards, 13 Grammy nominations, along with a host of other awards and recognitions. He has written hundreds of songs and also co-written successful neo-classical works that have toured internationally. Although he has achieved such incredible success in his music career, Greg is one of the most humble and authentic men you could ever meet. His interview reveals the depths of his heart, and his genuine desire to pursue the calling that God has placed on his life no matter the circumstance.
“I’m not the best. I’m not the worst. I don’t keep score, I just write, and God uses it.”
- Greg Nelson
This article is full of priceless advice for the songwriter to take to heart. Greg discusses the importance of pursuing your life’s message. When you are clear on the mission the God has given for your life, and you pursue it with all of your heart, it is God who brings the increase. Success is found when we focus on chasing after the passion God has given us, instead of trying to fit what we’re doing inside the framework of what is currently trending on the charts.
Greg shares his journey to songwriting success, and what it was like to make a shift in his focus when inspirational music became less popular. Instead of hanging onto a genre that was fading or pursuing a popular genre that was outside of his giftings, Greg dove into the neo-classical works. He continued pursuing the genres that made his heart sing, and God used that passion to create long-lasting success.
Listen in to hear more about Greg’s story, timeless wisdom for aspiring songwriters, the best way to achieve success in songwriting, and how Greg has maintained a sense of humility in the face of incredible success.
“Writing for the market goes by the wayside. Instead, write what the Lord has placed on your heart.” - Greg Nelson
If you would like to know more about Greg and his story, check out his book, Runaway Horse.
Some topics we talk about in this episode:
- Introduction // Greg Nelson- 1:24
- The Secret to Success - 10:32
- Greg’s Songwriting Story - 23:45
- Greg’s Oratorios - 31:12
- The Importance of Writing from Scripture - 37:39
- Greg’s TedX Talk - 47:57
- The Wide World of Song Possibility - 53:42
- Wrap Up - 1:01:12
How to get involved
- Join the Successful Christian Songwriters Group on Facebook and continue the discussion! https://www.facebook.com/groups/SuccessfulChristianSongwriters/
- Check out all of the resources for you to become the songwriter you were meant to be at www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com
If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!