Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3
Host: John Chisum
Guest: Adrian Thompson (Head of A&R, Bethel Music)
Episode Title: Adrian Thompson: Bethel Exec on Miracles and Music
Episode Summary:
In this thought-provoking episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with Adrian Thompson, the Head of A&R at Bethel Music and former VP of A&R at Integrity Music. They discuss the impact of Bethel Music on modern worship, the controversy surrounding charismatic expressions of faith, and the process of developing and signing artists at Bethel.
Adrian shares insights into how Bethel identifies new talent, the songwriting process behind their music, and the biblical foundation of their songs. He also opens up about his own spiritual journey, moving from a Presbyterian background to encountering the Holy Spirit, and how that experience continues to shape his work in music ministry today.
If you've ever wondered how worship music is shaped, how A&R works at a major worship label, or why some churches criticize charismatic worship, this episode is for you!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Key Moments:
[02:26] – Adrian Thompson’s journey: From Presbyterian roots to charismatic faith
[05:54] – Addressing the controversy around Bethel & charismatic worship
[10:15] – Miracles, gold dust, and why supernatural experiences divide the church
[17:06] – How Bethel Music ensures theological soundness in worship songs
[23:17] – The role of A&R in selecting and refining worship songs
[27:45] – What it takes to become a Bethel Music artist
[31:29] – The UK worship movement & its influence on global worship
[36:12] – Advice for songwriters who feel called to write for the church
Resources & Links:
Listen to Bethel Music’s latest releases
Follow Bethel Music on Instagram – @bethelmusic
Get Involved with NCS:
NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year!
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025
Free First Monday Songwriting Training
https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training
NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/
NCS Collective:
https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/
Connect With Us:
www.NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com
Support the Show:
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