Founded nearly a decade ago by veteran songwriter, producer and industry executive John Chisum with a mission “to empower Christian songwriters worldwide,” Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) opens an unprecedented new chapter with the launch of the NCS Collective and NCS Community; the addition of key staff; and the acquisition of a state-of-the-art studio and event space.
“NCS has always been about community,” says Chisum. “Songwriting and ministry can be lonely endeavors, so we’re thrilled to be providing a space for Christian artists and writers to not only find resources to grow, but a place to belong and build up their network of contacts, support and fellowship.”
Offering record label and publishing services for the first time, Chisum recently unveiled the NCS Collective. Designed to create and distribute faith-based music hallmarked by stylistic diversity, the NCS Collective welcomes acclaimed singer/songwriter Coby James as well as Chisum himself as the label’s flagship artists, along with a burgeoning lineup of genre-spanning talent.
“We have so much great music coming out of our NCS Community and artist development clients that it would be a shame to not let people experience the powerful songs we hear on a day-to-day basis,” explains Bryant Urich, director of production and studio operations, NCS. “The Collective is very eclectic on purpose—we’re not limited to one genre or style as a label.”
Further expanding the ministry’s footprint is the new NCS Community. A subscription-based program offering regularly scheduled workshops, instructional downloads, and guest presentations from veteran artists and industry professionals, among a wealth of other tools, the NCS Community is an affordable, inspirational and informative space where independent singer/songwriters can flourish.
In addition, Chisum announces two key staff appointments which will serve to vitally undergird the organization’s exponential growth. Joining NCS from Gaither Music Group, Hannah Franklin steps into the role of director of marketing and artist services and assistant to Chisum, while acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer Bryant Urich has been named director of production and studio operations.
Boasting a world-class recording studio, podcast suite and versatile event space in the heart of Nashville’s creative district, NCS recently relocated to the historic Berry Hill studio formerly owned by iconic country music songwriter and producer Keith Stegall.
Chisum also continues to host and produce NCS’ popular “Song Revolution” podcast. With nearly 200 episodes to date, the show has become synonymous with the organization’s mission, featuring insightful conversations on songwriting and artistry with such names as Bear Rinehart (NEEDTOBREATHE), Kari Jobe, Matt Maher and Ryan Stevenson.