There’s always trends, but a good instrument, played well, with a good melody, will almost always be relevant.” – John Mark McMillan
There’s something inspiring about sitting down with a seasoned songwriting veteran in his prime. John Mark McMillan is a legend with no signs of slowing down. His music keeps getting better.
My first interview with John Mark was one of my favorites of all time. His perspective on creativity, honesty, and a flat-out love for music is so inspiring. And this conversation doesn’t disappoint.
We talk about his new projects, upcoming projects, metaphorical vs direct songwriting, new instruments, touring, and so much more.
Enjoy!
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Show Sponsor
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In This Episode You’ll Hear More About:
- Staying busy and productive as an artist.
- What JMM would have done if music didn’t work out.
- The creative process behind the new record Mercury & Lightning
- What is was like to work with producer Gabriel Wilson
- An instrument called a guqin and why it inspired the new record.
- The power of abstract and very direct lyrics.
- Why JMM decided to do the Mercury Sessions & the Lightning Sessions.
- What is next for JMM and his new projects.
- The tension between writing worship songs and singer/songwriter songs.
- Songwriting gear setup.
Resources Mentioned:
- Show Sponsor: Coresound Pads
- Website: John Mark McMillan
- Music: Mercury & Lightning by John Mark McMillan
- Music: The Medicine 10th Anniversary Edition by John Mark McMillan
- Music: The Mercury Sessions
- Music: The Lightning Sessions
- Podcast: Music Production, Songwriting, & Moving Gods Heart: An Interview with Gabriel Wilson
- Podcast: Gabriel Wilson on Being a Pro Musician, Intentional Practice, & Creativity in the Church
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Question: What was your biggest takeaway from this interview with John Mark? You can leave a comment by clicking here.
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