Mining for a song

A profile photo of Adam Howard

By on

We serve the single most creative being in the entire universe - God. We are made in the image of this incredible God; designed to reflect His glory and character. If we truly believe this, then we as the church should be the most creative collective group in the world. Sadly, I’m not sure we can confidently claim this. I believe there is a mandate on us as worshippers to bring a new song in this generation that blazes trails and pioneers; that reclaims the God-given power that music holds for His kingdom’s sake and plumbs the depths of creativity, bringing hope and light to our neighbours, neighbourhoods and nations. Let’s be a group of people that look for the gold in our creativity. Let’s commit to digging deep as we mine for the God-songs He has deposited in us.

9 steps to discover, mine and refine

So how do we dig in and mine for songs? I thought that the best place to start thinking about this process was to first look at how it is done in the natural. According to Provident Metals (a Gold and Silver Bullion Dealer), there are nine steps in the process of discovering, mining and refining gold.

  • Step #1 – Finding Deposits
  • Step #2 – Analysis of Promising Areas
  • Step #3 – Drill Testing/Samples
  • Step #4 – Type of mine
  • Step #5 – Building Infrastructure
  • Step #6 – Mining samples and determining processing
  • Step #7 – Processing (on-site)
  • Step #8 – Refining (off-site)
  • Step #9 – Mine reclamation

So, let’s take some time to look at how that relates to our spiritual/creative mining process.

Step #1 – Finding Deposits

What comes out is a direct product of what you put in. Luke 6:45 puts it like this; “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” God lays down gold deposits when you spend time with Him. It is not just about quality of time, but quantity too. The more time you spend with someone the more likely you are to have those quality, ‘golden’ moments. Ask God to bring a deeper desire for His word, not just so you can write songs, but so you can know Him better. Spend time listening…He will speak.

Step #2 – Analysis of Promising Areas

When God is highlighting something to you, write is down. If you are in a particular season of your life, write it down. When God speaks, write it down. Read around the scripture, look at some commentaries, explore themes and talk with one another. A theme or pattern may arise as you look over your notes.

Step #3 – Drill Testing/Samples

Your voice memo is your best friend. Experiment with ideas and make a record of everything. Even if it is one line, just a word or just a melody. You may come back to it at another time or whilst working on another song. A whole song may not come at once. Don’t be afraid of a fragmented process. Involve others in the process, whether as a pair of ears to listen to something or as a more direct contributor, its not about being a lone wolf, but utilizing all aspects and strengths within the body.

Step #4 – Type of mine

Think about what you want it to sound like and be clear on your themes. What’s is for? Who’s it for?

Step #5 – Building Infrastructure

What form is the song going to be? Is there naturally a chorus? Think about the function of the sections; verse > explore theme, chorus > a summation or declaration, bridge > an elaboration on the theme or declaration statement. This is the time when ‘roads’ are built. This is the breaking of ground and the beginning of the digging in process. Build good foundations here by being well read and thought out and it will save you a lot of time later.

Step #6 – Mining samples and determining processing

Get writing! Start to flesh out the nuggets that were discovered earlier on. Don’t be satisfied with just surface mining, but get your shovels and picks and get your hands dirty. Be committed to looking beyond the easy option. Build together the pieces of ideas you have and put some meat on the bones. Get a dictionary and a thesaurus and explore. Your infrastructure becomes important here. If you aren’t sure what your song is about, you can meander. Be determined to be clear about what you want to say. You can write more than one song, so don’t be tempted to throw everything into the one you’re working on. However, try not to over analyse your content at this point. This part is more about a creative flow, not about the editing, so don’t be afraid to have multiple options for lines…you can edit it later. If you can record a demo version, do so as far as you can.

Step #7 – Processing (on-site)

At one point or another, someone else has to hear your song. This is the scary bit of the process, but can often be the best bit. Remember that we are here to complete one another, not compete. We, as part of the same team/body, want the best for one another. Cultivate an honest, loving environment where you can bring and receive feedback. Bring it to your team or have a ‘band’ who workshop your song(s). Trust the skill and heart of the musicians you have to bring their part to the table. Come with your thoughts about feel, style and tempo etc., but be open to change. Ask someone in your eldership team to check your theology. Maybe then you can try an acoustic version of the song in a team gathering or prayer meeting.

Step #8 – Refining (off-site)

Take feedback on board and rework any parts that need attention. This process doesn’t stop, to be honest, but as other people play the song, it will evolve and change as they bring their take on it.

Step #9 – Mine reclamation

Release your song and stand back. This part is about a growth and fruitfulness developing where the mine once was. You’ve mined well and now the ‘eco-system’/fruit that will come from the ground you have dug, will support life that will have great and lasting effect.

Wrapping Up

  1. Dig deep
  2. Commit to the process
  3. Enjoy the tide
  4. See the fruit
  5. Repeat