The RESOUNDworship Songwriting Podcast is designed to equip, train and inspire grass-roots worship songwriters in local churches. Joel Payne and Sam Hargreaves discuss songwriting technique, analyse classic worship songs, interview established writers and present a featured song. All to help you become a better worship songwriter!
Also available on iTunes and via the usual podcast apps - search for "The Resound Worship Songwriting Podcast".
Also available on iTunes and via the usual podcast apps - search for "The Resound Worship Songwriting Podcast".
Ep 119 - Whole Church Worship Songs
Sam and Joel are joined by Robb, Olwen, Andy & Chris to look back on the Hero Songs challenge from March with 10 songs featured! And Sam sets a new challenge for April based on Engage Worship's new Whole Church Worship resources. https://engageworship.org/project/whole-church-worship
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Ep 118 - Hero Songs (Reprise)
In this episode, Sam and Joel are joined by Andrew and Elise to look back on February's 'Acts Challenge' and set a new challenge for March. The featured song is 'Gethsemane' from Jubilate's 'Journey to Resurrection', written Susan Goforth and David Hill.
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Ep 117 - Interview Special: Steve Walton
In this episode Sam and Joel meet New Testament scholar Prof Steve Walton to talk about the book of Acts, his new commentary, and inspiration for songwriting in the Biblical text.
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Ep 116 - Acts Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam look back on the first month of the 12 Song Challenge, with a featured song snippet from every team, and set a new challenge for February. The featured song is 'Lord We're Waiting' by James Martin from the new album 'Downcast Souls Expectant Hearts' from Resound Worship.
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Ep 115 - Gathering Songs
In the episode Sam and Joel are joined by Elise from United Adoration to kick off the new season of the 12 Song Challenge. They share their top tips for surviving the challenge, how to make a start on a song and how to give and receive constructive feedback. And they introduce the the first challenge of the season, offering a variety of angles from which to approach it. The featured song is an exclusive first listen to 'O Gracious Light' by Elise Massa and Andy Clark, from the forthcoming album 'Downcast Souls Expectant Hearts'. Links to things mentioned can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 114 - My Redeemer Lives
In this episode, Sam talks to Joel and Matt about the new song 'My Redeemer Lives', the first release from the upcoming Downcast Souls / Expectant Hearts albums. They talk about the origins of the song, the writing process, and some of production elements that lead to the overall sound. A bit of an insight into the whole process!
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Ep 113 - 12 Song Challenge Review of the Year
In this episode, Joel and Sam are joined by Keiko, Andrew and Stephen to review August's 'Closing Songs' challenge, and look back of the last year of the 12 Song Challenge.
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Ep 112 - Closing Songs
In this abbreviated episode Joel looks back on the Creed Songs challenge, picking out a couple of highlights from the Wydale retreat final night concert, and sets the final challenge of the season.
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Ep 111 - Creed Songs
In this episode, Sam and Joel are joined by Emma from 'Welcome Churches' to review June's Refugee Songs challenge. And they set a new challenge for July. The featured song is 'We Believe in One God' by Chris Juby from the album 'Songs for Sundays'.
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Ep 110 - Refugee Songs
In this episode Joel flies solo, presenting a selection of songs from lasts month's 'Eurovision Songs' challenge and setting a new challenge for June. The featured song is 'We pray for those adrift, afraid' by Laurie Gauger available from jubilate.co.uk
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Ep 109 - Eurovision Songs
In this episode, Sam and Joel are joined by Andrew Finden and Rebecca Beese to review the songs from April's 'Worship for Workers' challenge, and to set a new challenge for May. The featured song is 'Lord Protect My Heart' by Andrew Finden.
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Ep 108 - Worship For Workers (Part 2)
In this episode, Joel talks to Matthew Kaemingk and Katie Roelofs from the Worship For Workers project.
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Ep 107 - Worship for Workers (Part 1)
In this episode, Sam and Joel are joined by Andy and Elise to chew on some questions about introducing homegrown songs, review the community's attempts to complete the Psalter in the March challenge, and set a new challenge for April. The featured song is 'Now I Lay At The Altar' by Elise Massa, from the album 'Songs For The Sunset'.
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Ep 106 - The Other Psalms
In this episode Joel tells Sam all about the recent Resound Worship trip to the US, Keiko and Andrew join in to review the February 'Songs of Rest' challenge, and a new challenge is set for March. The featured song is 'House of the Lord' by Rebecca Beese from her recent album 'Psalm Twenty Seven: Ask, Seek, Dwell'
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Ep 105 - Songs of Rest
In this episode, Joel and Sam are joined by Resound Worship co-founder, Matt Osgood. As well as review January's 'Assembly Bangers' challenge (with the help of some special guests) and setting a new challenge for February, they also revisit the beginnings of Resound Worship, each telling the story from their own perspectives.
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Ep 104 - Assembly Bangers
In this episode, Sam & Joel are joined by Olwen and Elise to kickstart 2023 with a review of December's 'Global Songs' challenge and a new challenge for January. The featured song is 'Sing a Hymn to God's Great Glory' by Michael Saward and Sam Hargreaves.
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Ep 103 - Global Church Songs
In this episode, Sam and Joel are joined by Travis and Rachel as they review the 2 Corinthians challenge from November and set a new challenge for December. The featured song is 'The Stillness of the Night' by Andrew Finden from the recent 'December Songs' EP.
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Ep 102 - 2 Corinthians Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Olwen and Rebecca to review the Fujimura Challenge from October, featuring songs from a number of 12 Song Challenge participants, and set a new Bible-based challenge for November. The featured song is 'All the Earth Was Waiting' by Andy Clark and Elise Massa from the recent 'December Songs' EP.
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Ep 101 - Fujimura Challenge
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Elise and Andy to review September's 'Songs of Hope' challenge, featuring songs from some of the participants. The team set a new challenge for October and herald the release of a new song that has been in the pipeline for a whole year! [The featured song is 'Alpha and Omega' by Andy Clark and Matt Weeks]
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Ep 100 - Makoto Fujimura Interview
For our 100th episode we have a very special guest interview. Makoto Fujimura is an internationally renowned visual artist. He’s an advocate for 'culture care', speaking to policy makers, industry & academia, and a Christian who is steeped in God’s word. These strands have come together in his book 'Art + Faith: A Theology of Making'. Sam spoke to him about how “slow art”, New Creation and the Japanese tradition of Kintsugi can inspire and renew us as songwriters. There is laughter, creativity and a whole deep well of wisdom.
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Ep 99 - Songs of Christian Hope
In this episode Joel, Sam and Keiko launch the new season of the 12 Song Challenge with some top tips for surviving and an exploration of the September theme. The featured song is 'Tell All the World of Jesus' from the forthcoming 'Sing a Hymn' album.
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Ep 98 - Retreat Review
In this episode Joel and Sam reflect on five glorious days at the Worship Songwriter Retreat and start getting ready for the new season of the 12 Song Challenge that starts in September.
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Ep 97 - Isaac Wardell & Climate Vigil Songs
In this episode, Joel meets songwriter and producer Isaac Wardell to talk about the new Porter's Gate album 'Climate Vigil Songs'. As well as drawing out some of the ecological themes of the album they also discuss some of the finer points of the writing process, digging into several songs, and the vision that lies behind the whole Porter's Gate project.
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Ep 96 - 12 Song Challenge Review of the Year
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Keiko and Andy took back on another completed 12 Song Challenge. Together they talk through the highs and lows of the year, picking out some of their favourite challenges and favourite songs.
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Ep 95 - Hansi Scharnowski
In this interview special, Joel meets German songwriter, producer, arranger and pop-cantor, Hansi Scharnowski to find out more about his life, his work and the German contemporary church music scene.
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Ep 94 - Bethel Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Keiko to review February's 'Physical Songs' challenge which brought our a remarkable range of styles and themes, and Hannah Hodges pops in to help them set the final challenge of this season of 12SC. The featured song is 'In Troubled Times (Unshakeable)' from Resound Worship, and links to this and other things mentioned in the podcast can be found at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 93 - Physical Songs
In this episode Sam and Joel review January's 'Multipart Songs' challenge, including multiple clips rom the 12 Song Challenge, and set a new challenge for February. The featured song is 'Draw Near the Tomb (Resurrection Day)' by Sam Hargreaves.
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Ep 92 - Multipart Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Forum Dad, David, to reflect on 2021 and the December challenge and set a new challenge for January. The numerous example songs are listed with links at www.resoundworship.org/podcast.
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Ep 91 - Taizé Songs
This month is an American takeover! Regular contributors Keiko and Rachel are joined by Dan and Elise to present a stateside angle on all things songwriting and 12 Song Challenge. In the festive spirit they begin with a Christmas (holidays) quiz before reviewing and featuring some of their favourites from November's 'December Songs' challenge and setting a new challenge for December.
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Ep 90 - Margot Hodson
In this interview special, Joel meet Margot Hodson, Theology & Education Director of the John Ray Initiative.
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Ep 89 - December Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam are joined by Andy review October's Psalms Challenge, we hear a clip from Joel's interview with Margot Hodson, and a new challenge is set for November. The featured song is What Kind of Throne, by Joel Payne.
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Ep 88 - Michael J Rhodes
In this episode Joel meets Biblical scholar and author Michael J Rhodes to talk about the language of worship as set out in the Psalms and how that might impact our writing for the church today.
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Ep 87 - Singing the Psalms
In this episode Joel, Keiko and Sam review the September Jubilate Songs challenge featuring songs from participants, hear from bible scholar and author Michael J Rhodes, enjoy a very special new jingle and set a new challenge for October. The featured song is 'O God of Strength & Everlasting Kindness' by Lucy Hannah, Judy Gresham and Joel Payne.
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Ep 86 - Ryan Flanigan
In this episode Joel meets Ryan Flanigan on the release day of the new Liturgical Folk album, 'Matins & Vespers'. They talk about songwriting, melodies, family, friends and more. Song clips in the episode are 'On Tabor' from 'Edenland', 'Delight in the Lord' from 'Lent', and 'Liam the Confessor', 'Keep the Feast' and 'Keep Watch' from 'Matins and Vespers'.
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Ep 85 - Jubilate Challenge
In this episode Joel and Sam look back on the summer holidays, review the August God Songs challenge with Rachel, hear about Rebecca's whole church songwriting escapades and set a new challenge for September. The featured song is 'Man That is Born of Woman' by Rachel Wilhelm from her album 'Requiem'.
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Ep 84 - God Songs
In this episode Sam is on holiday and Joel is joined by guest co-hosts Keiko and David. Together they review July's Co-writes challenge, with David picking out some of his favourites, and set a new challenge for August.
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Ep 83 - Paul Zach
In this episode Joel meets Virginia-based songwriter Paul Zach.
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Ep 82 - Co-writes
In this episode Joel and Sam review the June challenge with Rachel, play a clip from an upcoming interview with Paul Zach and set a new challenge July. The featured song is 'Let All Creation Sing' by Paul Zach & Andy Zipf from the 'Doxecology' album.
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Ep 81 - Ebenezer Songs
Joel and Sam dissect the classic song 'Amazing Grace', review the May challenge with Andy Clark, hear from Geraldine, Grace and Gemma on a clip from the 'Disrupting Worship' podcast and set a new challenge for June. The featured song is 'God of All Comfort' by Joel Payne & Matt Weeks. Links to things mentioned can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 80 - Andrew Peterson
In this episode, Joel meets singer-songwriter, author and convener of artistic community Andrew Peterson and they talk songwriting process, struggles, heroes, finding your voice, the highs and lows of a hit song and more.
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Ep 79 - Hero Songs
In this episode Sam and Joel review a classic song by a songwriting hero, 'Knowing You' by Graham Kendrick; Keiko joins in to review the April 'Holy Spirit Songs' challenge including clips from a number of songs; we play the first excerpt from Joel's interview with Andrew Peterson; and the May challenge is launched: to write a song inspired by your songwriting hero! The featured song is 'We Seek Your Kingdom' by Andy Flannagan, Graham Hunter & Noel Robinson. Links to things mentioned are at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 78 - Holy Spirit Songs
In this episode Joel and Sam dissect the classic song Purify My Heart (Refiner's Fire) by Brian Doerksen, Sam meets William Atkinson, senior lecturer in pentecostal theology from London School of Theology, and the new season of the 12 Song Challenge kicks off with a brand new challenge for April. The featured song is 'We Lift Our Voices (For the Lord is Good)' by Andy Clark. (There are links to things mentioned at www.resoundworship.org/podcast)
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Ep 77 - Timo Scharnowski
In this special episode to fill the gap before the 12 Song Challenge kicks off in April, Sam goes all 'Song Exploder' on us and meets Timo Scharnowski from The Forest Feeling to talk about their track 'Pioneers'. Together they delve into the origins of the song and the various production processes and sounds involved in creating the finished track.
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Ep 76 - 12 Song Challenge Is Coming Back
In this episode Joel and Sam review the classic song 'Open the Eyes of My Heart' by Paul Baloche and relaunch the 12 Song Challenge ready to start from 1 April 2021.
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Ep 75 - Review of 2020
Most of us are glad to see the back of 2020. But for those involved in the 12 Song Challenge it was a rare highlight in a difficult year. Join Joel, Sam and Keiko as they review first December, then the whole year, including clips of favourites songs and some sound bites from participants. There's also news of 12 Song Challenge 2021/22. The featured song is...well it will only really make sense to anyone involved in the December challenge!
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Ep 74 - Christmas Quiz Special
Sam takes on the role of quizmaster for Team Joko and Team Brackenhelm, as Joel. Keiko, David & Rachel battle it out to become 2020 Christmas podcast quiz champions.
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Ep 73 - Family Worship Songs
In this episode, Joel and Sam review the classic 'Calypso Carol' by Michael Perry, reflect with David Brackenbury on November's 'Songs of Thankfulness' challenge, and set a new challenge for December, the final one of the year! The featured song is the new Jubilate recording of Calypso Carol, and there are links to things mentioned in the podcast at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 72 - Songs of Thankfulness
In this episode Sam & Joel dissect the classic song 'Great is the Lord' by Steve McEwan, review the October Mental Health Songs challenge with Keiko and set a new challenge for November. The featured song is 'Take Heart' by Keiko Ying. (Links to things mentioned can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast)
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Ep 71 - Mental Health
In this episode Joel and Sam dissect the classic song 'Christ in My Waking' by Stuart Townend and Simon Brading, review the September 'Gap Songs in Three' challenge with Forum Dad David Brackenbury, interview Professor John Swinton, and set a new challenge for October to write songs on the theme of Mental Health. The featured song is 'Where Are You In the Storm' by Sam Hargreaves, and links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 70 - Gap Songs in Threes
In this episode we launch the new Doxecology album! Joel & Sam are joined by producer Matt Weeks to look back on the process of writing and recording and lift the veil on some of what goes on. In the 12 Song Challenge we review August's amazing 'Women in Scripture' challenge and set a new challenge for September to write gap songs, in 3/4 or 6/8. The featured song is 'Nature Shines with Beauty' from the album 'Doxecology' www.doxecology.org
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Ep 69 - Women in Scripture
Joel is joined by guest host Keiko Ying while Sam is on holiday to dissect the classic song 'We will feast in the house of Zion' by Sandra McCracken, review July's Justice Songs challenge and to set a new Women in Scripture challenge for August. We also welcome Rachel Wilhelm and Rebecca Beese to the show to discuss inspirational and intriguing women in the Bible, along with a few ideas about how to approach the challenge. The featured song is the first single from the new Doxecology album: 'Heaven's Voice Brings The Dawn' by Matt Weeks & Joel Payne. Links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 68 - Justice Songs
In this episode, Joel & Sam dissect the classic song 'God of Justice' by Tim Hughes, review June's Living Room Songs in the 12 Song Challenge with David, introduce a new 12 Song Superstar of the month award, play their own family friendly attempts, meet Jack Wakefield from Tearfund and set a new challenge for July: Justice Songs. The featured song is 'Lord you hear the cry (Lord have mercy) by Geraldine Latty' and there are links to things mentioned in the podcast at www.resoundworship.org/podcast.
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Ep 67 - Noel Robinson Interview
In light of recent events, and the global Black Lives Matter movement, we wanted to pause and take stock of any issues within our own world of worship songwriting. So we were delighted when Noel Robinson - songwriter, worship leader and all round good guy - offered to come on the show and share some of his own perspectives and experience. The entire episode is dedicated to the conversation between Sam and Noel.
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Ep 66 - Living Room Songs
In this bumper episode we meet freedom songs expert, Stephen Stacks, in a Dissect a Classic focused on "Kumbaya", Keiko joins us to review May's communion songs challenge and we set a new challenge for June. The featured song is "There is hope" by Matt Weeks. There are links to things mentioned in the show at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 65 - Digital Discouragement
Sam & Joel meet up for a shorter lockdown special (an extra podcast in the middle of the month) to talk about 'digital discouragement'. They cover social media, identify, self worth, creativity, lockdown, the artistic heart and more. The featured song is 'All of my plans (Laid down)' by Ben Atkins. Links to things mentioned can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 64 - Communion Songs
This month Joel & Sam dissect the classic song, 'My Lighthouse' by Rend Collective, review the April 'Songs of Solace & Hope' challenge with David Brackenbury, set a a new 'Communion Songs' challenge for May, and generally chew the cud about worship songwriting. Links to things mentioned are at www.resoundworship.org/podcast and the featured song is 'High in the Heavens (Live)' by Judy Gresham.
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Ep 63 - Songs of Solace & Hope
In this early episode we discuss experiences and legalities of streaming songs for online worship with our Agency Manager, Chris Juby, hear some stories of 12 Song Challenge songs being a blessing in local churches, review March's Lent Songs challenge with Keiko and set the Songs of Solace and Hope challenge for April. The featured song is 'Oh Sisters And Brothers' by Joel Payne and links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 62 - Lent Songs
In this episode, Joel & Sam dissect the classic song 'Oceans' by Hillsong United, welcome forum-dad, David, to review February's Theme Song challenge and set a new challenge for March. Links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast. The featured song is 'There's a time for tears' by Sam Hargreaves.
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Ep 61 - Theme Songs
This month Sam and Joel dissect the classic song 'The heart of worship' by Matt Redman, review the Epiphany Songs challenge with Keiko, play their own January attempts to each other and launch the Theme Songs challenge for February. Links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at resoundworship.org/podcast and the featured song is 'Daily I Stumble (Grace Enough)' by Ben Atkins.
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Ep 60 - Epiphany Songs
Joel & Sam begin the new year as they left off, dissecting the classic song 'Adoration' by Brenton Brown. The 12 Song Challenge kicks off with the first challenge - Epiphany Songs - while veterans of the 18/19 challenge, Keiko and David, join in with their own words of encouragement and insight . The featured song is 'Our God was a refugee' by Joel Payne. Links to things mentioned on the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 59 - Andy Flannagan (plus the 12 Song Challenge returns)
This episode features an extended interview with songwriter Andy Flannagan recorded at the recent LST Songwriting Intensive. But before we get to that, Joel and Sam do the usual catch up and launch the 12 Song Challenge which will returns in January 2020. The featured song is 'Sweet Sounds of Heaven (Christ is Born)' by Joel Payne and Matt Weeks. Links to things mentioned in the show can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 58 - Book launch: 'How to write worship songs'
Sam and Joel dissect the classic song 'King of kings, majesty' by Jarrod Cooper, discuss what makes a song congregational, begin to share some plans for next year's 12 song challenge, update us on progress with Doxecology, and unveil their new book 'How to write worship songs' by chatting through some of its contents. There's a competition to win a copy, and the featured song is a new Christmas track from Marcus Pagnam 'Come and see the saviour'. (Links to things mentioned at www.resoundworship.org/podcast)
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Ep 57 - How we recorded a live album
As well as dissecting the modern classic 'This I Believe (The Creed)' in the regular slot and generally reflecting on life, this month Sam and Joel are joined by Andy Clark to tell the behind-the-scenes story of how the Let Praise Resound album was recorded, from song selection, through pre-production, rehearsals and recording. The featured song is 'From Life's Beginning (Let Praise Resound)' by Marcus Pagnam. Links to things mentioned at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 56 - Reviewing the 12 Song Challenge
Sam and Joel look back on 12 months of songwriting with new friends and community, welcoming one of those new friends as a special guest on the show as they pick their favourite moments; they give an exclusive first play of a track from the new album (and can't resist dissecting it a bit); they discuss what not to do with acorns and they play their August-revisited-songs to each other. Links to items on the show in at wwww.resoundworship.org/podcast. The featured song is 'Jesus you have called us (I will follow)' from the soon to be released album 'Let Praise Resound' by Resound Worship.
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Ep 55 - Revisiting an old song
In this episode Joel and Sam dissect the recent classic 'Build my life', reflect on a wonderful Worship Songwriting Retreat, review July's 'Harvest songs' challenge and set listeners the task of revisiting and finishing an old song during August. The featured song is 'God the maker of the heavens' by Sam Hargreaves. Links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 54 - Harvest Songs
In this episode, Joel & Sam launch the Doxecology search for new songs on themes of creation and the environment, review the Funeral Songs challenge from June including playing and dissecting their own attempts, and set a Harvest Songs challenge for July. The featured song is We See the Fruitful Harvest by Sam Hargreaves and there are links to things mentioned at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 53 - Funeral Songs
Joel and Sam reflect on an epic day recording the new Resound live worship album, dissect the classic 'Come now is the time', review the May Personal Songs challenge and set a new challenge for June to write songs for funerals. The featured song is 'O Faithful Lord' by Mark Bradford, and there are links to many of the things mentioned in the podcast at resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 52 - Making personal songs corporate
Joel and Sam dissect the classic song 'Surrender' by Marc James, review the Rhyming Bible Songs challenge from last month and talk about how to write worship songs that begin as a personal expression and develop into a corporate voice. The featured song is 'The stone' by Sam Hargreaves and there are links to many of the things mentioned resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 51 - Rhyming Bible stories
Joel & Sam dissect the classic song 'Seek ye first', recap on March's 'Songs of the everyday' challenge, interview author Bob Hartman and set the 'Rhyming Bible stories' challenge for April. The featured song is 'When my flesh is weak (Watching and praying)' by Joel Payne. Links to the various things discussed in the podcast at www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 50 - Songs for the everyday
It's episode 50! Listeners and presenters share their favourite podcast moments so far, The Servant King is dissected, February's challenge is reviewed and the Workshop is all about how to write worship songs that connect with the everyday. The featured song is "The God who made the earths foundations (He is here)" by Lesley Kennedy & Andy Clark. [Links to things mentioned on the show at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 49 - Improvising seed ideas
We review January in the 12 Song Challenge, respond to a query about Dissect a Classic (and forget to dissect a classic), offend all Lutherans, pick Brian's brain, interview Carey & Geraldine Luce at the 'Songs from the Tree' retreat and set the February challenge. The featured song is 'Join us in the mess' from engageworship. (Links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast)
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Ep 48 - Songs for Easter Week
In this episode, Joel and Sam review the December challenge, coin a new catchphrase, dissect O Praise the Name (Anastasis), and set the January challenge to write songs for Easter Week. The featured song is 'All I am I lay it down' by Adam Howard. (Links to everything mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast)
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Ep 47 - Songs for the Christmas gaps
In this episode, Joel and Sam get festive by dissecting the classic carol 'O Come all ye faithful', reviewing November's One-verse-wonders in the 12 Song Challenge and considering how to write a song to fill some of those Christmas gaps. The featured song is 'On Christmas Day' by Matt Osgood. [links to things mentioned in the podcast at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 46 - One-verse wonders
This month Joel and Sam dissect the classic Taize song 'O Lord, hear my prayer', review the October 'Eco Songs' challenge, and discuss how to write a one-verse wonder in the November challenge, as well as trying to get a freebie out of Abbey Road studios. Links to everything mentioned in the shownotes at www.resoundworship.org/podcast. The featured song is 'Mary rides (Jesus is with us) by Chris Juby.
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Ep 45 - Eco Songs
In this episode Joel & Sam dissect the recent classic 'So Will I' from Hillsong - with guest dissector Chris Juby, review September in the 12 Song Challenge, launch the Eco Songs challenge for October and introduce new feature 'Brian's Brain'. Links to most things mentioned can be found at resoundworship.org/podcast. The featured song is Hope for the world's despair (Hymn of Peace) from Jubilate.
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Ep 44 - Songs of Intercession
Sam and Joel are back after the summer to launch the brand new edition of the 12 Song Challenge, to dissect the classic song 'Shine, Jesus, Shine' by Graham Kendrick and to springboard off that into the September challenge: to write a song of intercession; all that plus a bit of inspiration from Flight of the Conchords. The featured song is 'No greater love' by Andy Clark from the new Resound Worship EP 'Love Songs'.
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Ep 43 - Stretching Language and Challenging Themes
In this episode, Joel & Sam launch the new Undiscovered Treasures feature, showcasing a song suggested by listeners that should be more widely known, dissect the popular song and hot-topic-of-the-moment 'Reckless Love' and explore how to successfully approach language and themes that stretch and challenge us in worship songs. The featured song is 'We have come' by Sam Hargreaves from the Engage Worship 'He is here' EP. [Links to things mentioned at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 42 - What is a congregational song?
In this episode, Joel and Sam tackle the question of what constitutes a congregational song by interacting with suggestions sent in by listeners and followers as well offering their own suggestions; they dissect the classic song "How deep the Father's love for us" by Stuart Townend; the featured song is "What Kind of King (This is Jesus)" by Matt Osgood. [links to things mentioned in the podcast can be found at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 41 - Interview Special: Wendell Kimbrough
Joel is joined for this episode by Alabama songwriter Wendell Kimbrough. They discuss his journey into songwriting, his formation as a local-church songwriter working to serve a liturgical setting every week, his recent collaboration with the Porters Gate Project (including a personal testimony from Joel on the impact of one of the songs) and his creative re-expression of the Psalms as he seeks to tap into the original emotional power of the poetry, especially in his recent album release, Come to Me. [Featured clips and tracks are May our God be Known (Psalm 67), Your Labor is Not in Vain, It's Not Long Till the Day of the Lord (Psalm 37) & Draw Near (Psalm 69)]
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Ep 40 - Notes from the Calvin Symposium
In this episode, Joel is joined by guest presenter and fellow Resound songwriter, Chris Juby. Together they dissect the classic song 'There is a Redeemer' and reflect on their recent experience as guests of the Calvin Worship Symposium in Grand Rapids, drawing out some of the highlights and their takeaway lessons for songwriting. The featured song is Worship the Lord (Psalm 100) by Chis Juby. For links to everything mentioned in the show, visit www.resoundworship.org/podcast
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Ep 39 - Christmas Mash-Ups and Rewrites
Sam and Joel resound with festive cheer while analysing the classic Christmas song, Silent Night, before discussing how to produce and use mash-ups and re-writes in Christmas worship, in an episode full of references (and a full set of links at www.resoundworship.org/podcast). The featured song is We Worship a Wonderful Saviour from Resound's Christmas Songs album. [with apologies for the loss of sound quality towards the end, a malfunctioning audio interface...]
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Ep 38 - Luther, the Reformation and songs in the vernacular
Sam & Joel mark 500 years since the protestant reformation by discussing Luther and how to write songs with contemporary language and ideas. Special guest Matthew Knell (lecturer in historical theology at LST) joins them to give an expert view on the famous historical events. The featured song is 'Jesus you call us (This is our communion)' by Joel Payne, from Resound's 'Songs for Sundays' album.
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Ep 37 - Songs from Jesus teaching
Joel and Sam reflect on the recent release of the new Songs for Sundays album, read out a few reviews, dissect the new classic 'Good good father' and consider how to write songs out of Jesus' ethical teaching in the gospels.
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Ep 36 - Interview Special: Mark Scandrette & Heatherlyn
In this episode, Sam meets Mark Scandrette and Heatherlyn from the 9 Beats Collective, an international group of writers and musical artists producing work that explores the ancient wisdom of the Beatitudes.
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Ep 35 - Expectation, Innovation & Resolution
Sam and Joel return to normal hosting duties this month with a packed episode. They reflect on the recent Worship Songwriting Retreat, discuss how to encourage more female songwriters, dissect the classic song 'Cornerstone' including plenty of listener interaction, consider the limits of poetic and archaic language, and get neurological when exploring how our brain function relates to rules and variations in songwriting technique. The featured song is 'When God's perfect plans (Jesus, Lord of peace)' by Andy Clark, recorded live at the retreat concert night.
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Ep 34 - Interview Special: Joel Payne
In this episode, Sam interviews co-host Joel Payne. They discuss his journey into songwriting and early forays, his role with Resound Worship, the ethos and approach of the new Songs for Sundays album, the needs of local churches and hopes for the new Song & Hymn Writers Foundation. [The song at the end is 'May the Grace' by Mark Bradford, to be featured on the new 'Songs for Sundays' album this autumn]
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Ep 33 - Whole life worship
In a break to the usual pattern, this month kicks off with an interview special where Joel meets... Sam Hargreaves! They discuss the beginnings of Sam's songwriting; they journey through LST and worship pastoring to the launch of Engage Worship and recent publication of 'Whole Life Worship'; they discuss the disconnect of Sunday and everyday worship covering topics like language, dualism, salvation; and they announce a giveaway. The featured song is 'Lord you hear the cry' by Geraldine Luce (Latty).
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Ep 32 - Interview Special: Rachel Wilhelm
In this episode Sam meets Minneapolis-based worship leader and songwriter, Rachel Wilhelm. They discuss lament, doubt, fear and how they belong together in worship. Rachel talks about recording an album, the way her own journey of lament has shaped and informed her songwriting and how she uses scripture as the basis for expressing lament in song. Includes a live performance and a preview track from her forthcoming album.
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Ep 31 - Finishing and sharing a song
In this episode, Joel and Sam eat humble pie on some Bible knowledge, discuss the difference between a song and a hymn, welcome a guest classic-song-dissecter in Rupert Packard, review month two of the Song Cycle and discuss how to finish and share a song for month three. The featured songs is 'Hallelujah, Christ is risen' by Chris Pearse. [More links to things mentioned at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 30 - Interview Special: Aaron Keyes
Joel meets Aaron Keyes and they discuss worship pastors, discipleship, scripture, songwriting, and passing on the baton from one generation to the next. Aaron describes how, with Jesus, it's a 'race to the bottom' not a 'pyramid of celebrity' and how his work and ministry is built around squashing that pyramid and building a new culture.
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Ep 29 - Developing your first attempt
Sam and Joel introduce phase two of the Song Cycle as they discuss how to develop a song idea in the workshop, they review and respond to January's 'first ideas', they dissect the classic song 'How great is our God', they respond to a blog post by Malcolm du Plessis, they suggest distraction tactics for when your mind goes blank while preaching and Sam compares Joel's attempt at an American accent to his children playing with Lego. The featured song is 'High in the heavens' by Judy Gresham. [More links and notes at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 28 - Interview Special: Jeremy Perigo
Joel meets Jeremy Perigo, Director of Music and Worship Programmes at London School of Theology. They talk culture, colonialism, coffee, community and congregational song. Jeremy shares his experiences in helping to develop indigenous worship expressions in cross-cultural settings, his take on what's hot in academic worship studies at the moment, and thoughts on how worship songwriters can study theology and apply it successfully to their songwriting. The featured track is 'The Benediction' by Jeremy Perigo, feat. Scott Pazera. [More links and notes at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 27 - Inspiration and ideas (Song Cycle)
In the first episode of 2017 Sam and Joel launch the new Song & Hymn Writers Foundation, dissect the classic song 'I will offer up my life', review the year long 12-song challenge, share their attempts in the two-line challenge and introduce the Song Cycle for 2017, with a special focus on inspiration and ideas. The featured song is 'O faithful Lord' by Mark Bradford. [further notes and links at www.resoundworship.org/podcast]
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Ep 26 - Performance vs Participation
In the final episode before Christmas, Sam and Joel discuss in-depth the 'Is evangelical worship headed for a huge crash?' blog post that has been doing the rounds recently, exploring the relationship of performance and participation; they catch up on the November Advent challenge; they set a new 'two-line' challenge for December; and they propose both a ten-commandments and a beatitudes of congregational song writing. [Books and links mentioned are listed at www.resoundworship.org/podcast and the featured song is 'In the beginning' by Joel Payne]
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Ep 25 - Interview Special: Isaac Wardell
Joel meets Isaac Wardell, founder and creative director of Bifrost Arts. They talk about Isaac's songwriting, the new and different directions he has been taking worship music through Bifrost, the need to experience other styles and forms and to write for your own congregation, the unhelpful segregation of traditional and contemporary, the breadth of worshipping 'standards' across the church, and how he recorded a successful album for under $1000. [Song clips from 'Lamentations' album: 'How long'; 'Rise up' & 'Psalm 126 Live at Hope College'] [Links at www.resoundworship.org/podcast ]
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Ep 24 - Advent songs
In this episode Sam and Joel catch up on October, the 50th anniversary event, meeting Radzi from Blue Peter and Timothy Dudley Smith, the impact of pioneering guitarists and more; they dissect the modern classic 'Praise is rising'; they review the October Spring Harvest challenge; and they discuss how to write songs for Advent. The featured song is 'You bring peace' by Sam Hargreaves.
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Ep 23 - Interview Special: Brian Doerksen
Joel meets Canadian songwriter Brian Doerksen and they discuss his songwriting journey, the unusual beginnings of 'Refiner's Fire', the personal impact of writing a song like 'Faithful One', his work with the British Vineyard churches, the triangle of songwriting, the 'dance', liminality, prosody, the Psalms, God-given seeds and so much more. [Song clip: 'How long (Psalm 13)'; featured song: 'Safe (Psalm 20)' both from 'Songs for the Journey Vol 2' by the Shiyr Poets]
Ep 22 - Songs of unity and mission
In this episode Joel & Sam dissect newcomer to the CCLI Top 25 'This is amazing grace'; review the September liturgy challenge; introduce the Spring Harvest challenge for October; coin the word "skeghead"; react to Resound's nomination in the Premier New Media Awards; discuss the theological significance of John 17; and share an exclusive pre-release version of Resound's newest song by Chris Juby. All in under an hour!
Ep 21 - Interview Special: Peter Nevland
Sam meets spoken word artist Peter Nevland and together they discuss coffee, spoken groove, delving deep into the psalms, releasing the limits of lyrical creativity, sabbatical rest and much more. [Audio clips in order: Let the King of glory in - Peter Nevland & Co Feat Graham Kendrick; Do not trust Barack Obama - Peter Nevland]
Ep 20 - Liturgy Songs
Joel & Sam return after taking August off and jump in with both feet, tackling the theology of God's sovereignty and the use of wisdom literature in songs while dissecting the classic song 'Blessed be your name'; they look ahead to the Jubilate and Resound 50th anniversary event on 15 October; they review the July & August challenges and launch the September challenge - liturgy songs; the featured song is 'May the Lord bless you' by Sam Hargreaves.
Ep 19 - Interview Special: Malcolm du Plessis
In this episode Joel meet Malcolm du Plessis from Common Exchange, a movement aiming to revive the concept of the 'priesthood of all believers' especially where worship songwriting is concerned. They talk about Malcolms roots fusing protest and worship in his native South Africa, his role bridging the gap between British and American music and worship publishers, and his new goal of discovering and giving a platform to songwriters outside the mainstream, from all over the world. [Song clips in order: Strong and Able by Matt Macauley; Heaven's Declaration by Mark Alan Schoolmeesters, Chase Wagner, Johan Åsgãrde, Oliver Lundström; Love that will not let me go by Paul Duncan; Come and tear down the walls by Jenny Wahlström and Mark Alan Schoolmeesters]
Ep 18 - Interview Special: Bruce Benedict
In this episode Sam meets Bruce Benedict from Cardiphonia, They talk about new settings of old hymns, the use of liturgical elements in songwriting and the need for songs that connect with real-life, particularly in the area of vocation - the theme of Cardophonia's current songwriting contest. (Audio clips in order: Come thou everlasting Spirit - Bruce Benedict; Psalm 136 - Caroline Cobb; Psalm 118 - Wen Reagan; Arise, shine for your light has come - Jared McKenna; Mystery of faith - Crossing Music)
Ep 17 - All-age & kids songs (live at Worship Songwriting Retreat)
Recorded live at the Worship Songwriting Retreat in Yorkshire with guest co-host, Geraldine Luce. In this episode, Joel talks to Geraldine, Jo and Judy about their collaborative songwriting group, the WSR delegates dissect the classic song 'Faithful One', and Sam launches the July challenge - All-age and kids songs - with a vodcast from Sweden. Plus there's an impromptu house band to accompany proceedings.
Ep 16 - Interview Special: Nigel Hemming & Damian Herbert
Sam meets Nigel Hemming, writer of 'Great Big God' and Damian Herbert from BIG Ministries. Together they talk about songwriting, kids songs and albums, all-age worship, actions and more. Nigel shares from his experience playing on and producing Vineyard albums like 'Hungry' and tells the story behind his big song. Damian unpacks the "All-In Thing" and reveals the influence of Busted on his writing...
Ep 15 - Holy Spirit Songs & Recording a Demo
In this jam-packed episode, Joel and Sam dissect the classic song 'My Jesus my Saviour'; Joel describes his experiences of guide-running in relation to songwriting; Sam proposes jingles for church services; they both look back on the May challenge and set a new one for June of Holy Spirit songs; and Matt Osgood joins them for the workshop to talk about how to record a demo. The featured song is 'Those who hope' by David Casswell.
Ep 14 - Interview Special: Greg de Blieck
Joel talks to Greg de Blieck from New Scottish Hymns as they prepare to launch their new album, 'We shall all be changed'. They discuss cultural influences on worship styles, the ways that hymns can feed and inspire, and much more about the songwriting and recording process. They also compare notes on playing in ceilidh bands (Greg has much more experience...).
Ep 13 - Lively praise songs
Sam has had a month of prolific songwriting, he and Joel compare notes on Spring Harvest 2016, Joel shares his plans to discover clergy-hymnwriters, they both dissect the classic song 'Give thanks to the Lord', while also reviewing the April challenge and setting the challenge for May. The Workshop is all about lively praise songs and the featured song is the brand new 'Oh what a friend'.
Ep 12 - Interview Special: Sue Rinaldi
In this episode, Joel meets songwriter, worship leader, recording artist, writer, thinker and label manager, Sue Rinaldi. They talk about her eclectic life and her journey through the music scene from her first contact with the church, to an appearance on top of the pop, through to becoming one the first in the new wave of worship songwriters and leaders, write through to managing a label and recruiting and nurturing new talent.
Ep 11 - Easter Songs
In this episode, Sam and Joel reflect on their Easter experiences - twigs, chocolates and all; they dissect the classic song 'How great thou art' with a significant Swedish spin; they review the March challenge, featuring a song by one of the participants; Mark Bradford joins them to talk about his new book, 'Encountering the risen Christ' and to help prepare for the April challenge - Easter Songs, taking in the post-resurrection encounters, the hope of personal transformation and holiness, and the cosmic consequences that stretch beyond the Easter season. And throughout, Joel cannot remember whether it is March or April. The featured song is 'Come, see the Son' by Joel Payne.
Ep 10 - Interview Special: Dan & Matt Weeks
In this Interview Special, Joel talks to record producers Dan & Matt Weeks, the creative brains behind Resound's 'Christmas Songs' album. Together they attempt to demystify the recording process and address the pros and cons of the 'worship sound' found on so many recordings. Dan & Matt describe the influence that their own roles in their congregations has on their work in the studio and their own passion for resourcing the local church. The featured song for this episode is 'Here I stand (Grace alone)' by Ben Atkins.
Ep 9 - Texts and tunes
Joel and Sam reflect on another month of the 12 Song Challenge, playing their own efforts and reviewing some of the contributions and songs of listeners. They take a closer look at Jonas Myrin and Matt Redman's new classic, '10,000 Reasons', and they launch a new challenge for March based on Stuart Townend and Keith Getty's songwriting partnership - texts and tunes. In the workshop they discuss how to approach writing a song in two independent parts and fit them together. The featured song is 'On the Darkest Day' by Matt Osgood.
Ep 8 - Interview Special: Stuart Townend
In this episode, Joel meets internationally renowned worship songwriter Stuart Townend. They discuss the beginnings of his songwriting journey, his progression into hymn-writing and his fruitful partnership with Keith Getty. Stuart talks about his more recent use of folk music sounds and styles, and between them they invent worship-songwriter-speed-dating. The show kicks off with Sam and Joel comparing their favourite Townend songs.
Ep 7 - Songs of community
In this episode we review the first month of our 12 Song Challenge. Sam and Joel pick out a song each from the participants, as well as sharing their own efforts. They launch the February challenge - Songs of community - discussing what makes a good, participatory, church community song. The featured song is 'Here is bread' by Mark Bradford.
Ep 6 - Interview Special: Ruth King Goddard
In this Interview Special, Joel meets Seattle-based worship pastor and music development specialist, Ruth King Goddard. Ruth brings her many years experience coaching and encouraging those who believe they can't sing, along with her life as a songwriter and worship pastor, to address the question of why so many people aren't singing in church. Her answers are insightful, practical and at times surprising. The episode kicks off with a mid-month review of January's task in the 12 Song Challenge.
Ep 5 - Song micro-structure and Geraldine Latty (Part 2)
Sam is away so Matt Osgood takes his place in the co-host chair. Joel shares his opening attempts for the 12 Song Challenge, 'Strength will rise (Everlasting God)' is dissected, and Matt guides us through songwriting micro-structure in the Workshop - with chiasms and parallelisms aplenty. We round off with the second half of our interview with Geraldine Latty, and 'You say (Trust in the Lord)' is the featured song.
Ep 4 - Song structure and Geraldine Latty (Part 1)
It's the launch of the '12 Song Challenge', with January's task to write a song from scripture. 'Be still for the presence of the Lord' is the classic song coming under the microscope, the Workshop covers song structure, and Sam interviews Geraldine Latty (Luce).
Ep 3 - Mining a theme and Graham Kendrick (Part 2)
'Mining a theme' is the topic of choice in the workshop, 'Mighty to Save' is the classic song under the scalpel, Joel begins discussing his 2016 songwriting resolutions and Sam concludes his interview with captain Graham Kendrick.
Ep 2 - Collaboration and Graham Kendrick (Part 1)
In this episode Sam and Joel talk all about collaboration, what it is and how you can make it work in a songwriting group. They dissect the classic song 'Light of the World', Joel admits he doesn't really know what Vivaldi's Gloria is about, and Sam interviews the father of modern British worship music, Graham Kendrick.
Ep 1 - Christmas
Joel and Sam discuss everything Christmas for worship songwriting. Sam is broadcasting from a stable, they dissect the classic carol 'Hark the herald' to see what makes it work and suggest some ways to incorporate it into contemporary worship, and they share some tips on writing a new Christmas worship song in The Workshop.