Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

 

Hosts: John Chisum, Claire Bacon, & Bryant Urich

 

Episode Title: Music Publishing in 2025

 

Episode Summary:
Season 3 of Song Revolution continues with a practical and eye-opening conversation on one of the most misunderstood topics in the music industry: publishing. Hosts John Chisum, Claire Bacon, and Bryant Urich break down what publishing really means in 2025, how it has changed from the traditional gatekeeper model of the past, and why understanding it is essential for every songwriter.

 

From copyright protection to royalty collection, from self-publishing to partnering with a publisher, this episode offers clarity and encouragement to help you take control of your songs and your future. If you've ever wondered whether you need a publisher, how to register your songs, or how to build the right relationships in the industry, this discussion will give you practical steps forward.

 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The difference between copyright and publishing
• How publishing has evolved from gatekeepers to digital access
• The two sides of publishing: administration vs. creative development
• Why many songwriters choose self-publishing today
• What publishers actually do for songwriters
• How to know if you're ready for a publishing deal
• Why relationships matter more than cold submissions
• How to find community and connection no matter where you live

 

Key Topics and Highlights:

• John's early Nashville days and the old gatekeeper model of publishing
• Claire's experience developing writers and matching them in the right rooms
• Bryant's perspective on band publishing and handling royalties as a group
• The importance of building your own foundation before seeking a publisher
• How marketing and publishing have become two separate tracks
• Practical steps every songwriter can take on their own: registering songs, networking, showcasing your work, and learning the basics of copyright

 

Memorable Quotes from the Episode:

"Copyright is about protection. Publishing is about getting your song out there."
"A publisher's job is to elevate what you're already doing—not create it for you."
"So much of making music today is DIY, and that's a good thing."
"Publishing isn't just about royalties—it's about relationships."

 

Final Takeaway:
You don't need a publisher to get started, but you do need to understand publishing. By learning the basics, building relationships, and developing your craft, you'll be ready when the right opportunities come.

 

Resources & Links:

 

 NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

 

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

 

Explore NCS Community and membership options
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

 

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/