Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4
TITLE: JORDAN SMITH: When You Can Sing Anything, What Do You Say?
HOSTS: John Chisum
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum sits down with Jordan Smith, one of the most recognizable voices to emerge from The Voice, for an honest conversation about music, faith, creativity, and the journey of discovering what comes next.
Jordan shares behind-the-scenes stories from his unforgettable time on The Voice, including how "Chandelier" became his breakthrough performance and what it was like stepping onto that stage as a college student from a small town in Kentucky with no industry experience.
The conversation also explores Jordan's latest project, The People's Hymnal, his collaboration with arranger Tommy Profitt, and his desire to continually take creative risks rather than repeat what he has already done. Jordan opens up about the personal growth that has shaped his artistry, learning to establish boundaries, and the often unseen cost behind music that brings people hope and encouragement.
EPISODE TOPICS
- Jordan Smith's journey from a small town in Kentucky to The Voice
- The story behind his iconic "Chandelier" performance
- What it was like performing for four superstar coaches
- The making of The People's Hymnal
- Reimagining beloved hymns while staying authentic
- Jordan's gospel music influences
- Collaborating with Tommy Profitt
- The Resurrection of the King and "Mary Did You Know"
- Navigating different musical directions and opportunities
- Why great artists need to take creative risks
- Finding the courage to say something meaningful
- How personal growth influences songwriting and artistry
- Learning boundaries and the importance of saying no
- The unseen cost behind music that brings people hope
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Jordan chose "Chandelier" during an early audition because he believed successfully performing such a challenging song could help him earn a place on The Voice.
- His performance became one of the defining moments of his time on the show, including an unforgettable reaction from Gwen Stefani.
- The People's Hymnal grew out of the response to Jordan's performance of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" on The Voice and his desire to return to that musical territory.
- Jordan credits Tommy Profitt with pushing him creatively and drawing things out of him that he didn't know were there.
- He shares wisdom from Amy Grant: the risk for an artist isn't always in how they sing, but in what they have to say.
- He has learned the importance of boundaries, taking time for family and himself, and becoming more comfortable saying no to the wrong opportunities so he can say yes to the right ones.
FINAL TAKEAWAY
The most meaningful creative work often comes from a willingness to take risks and share something genuine. Jordan Smith's story is a reminder that the hope people receive through our music is often born from the places where we've experienced the greatest growth, struggle, and transformation.
As artists and songwriters, we aren't simply called to repeat what has worked before. We're called to keep growing, keep exploring, and have the courage to say something that comes from our own experience and perspective. Sometimes the greatest creative risk is simply being honest about what we've learned along the way.
RESOURCES & LINKS:
Follow along with Jordan Smith!
https://www.therealjordansmith.com/
FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide
Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge
Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community
Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!
NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/
