Real Fun Records is challenging the status quo in the music industry, which often prioritizes profits over people. Founded by worship artist Chris McClarney and musician Jesse Phillips, the label uses an entirely different model that prioritizes artists and musicians. Instead of adhering to the traditional label structure, where artists accumulate massive debt to produce their records, Real Fun Records removes financial barriers and fosters meaningful, God-honoring music. This innovative approach is reshaping the landscape of Christian music, ensuring that the individuals behind the songs—both artists and musicians—receive sustainable support.
I spoke with Chris and Jesse to learn more about their innovative label. We discussed their vision for transforming the Christian music industry, their sacrifices to build a sustainable model for artists and musicians, and how they foster a creative space where worship and artistry take precedence over profit.
Bradden Ford: Some readers may recognize Real Fun Records because you have been great friends and partners with NRT. When you suggested doing this interview, I was all in. What you’re building at your label isn't just a recording studio—it’s something special. Can you explain to people what Real Fun Records is all about?
Chris McClarney: Sure. To understand Real Fun Records, you must first know how a traditional record deal works. Say you're an artist, and God puts a song on your heart to share. Typically, you’d sign with a label that loans you money to make your record. But here’s the catch—you pay that loan back at around 15 percent. So, if you take a $100,000 advance, you must generate over a million dollars in sales and streams before you see a single dollar.
That means many of the artists you love—the ones you hear on Christian radio—aren't making a living off their music alone. They rely on touring and side gigs. And that’s just the artists. The musicians who play on those records? They get paid a flat fee for the session, and that’s it. When the world shut down in 2020, some of my best friends—top-level musicians who have played on your favorite worship and Christian contemporary (CCM) songs—called me, saying, “I don’t know how I’m going to pay my bills.”
It made me angry. These guys dedicate their lives to serving God through music, yet the system doesn’t support them. The church doesn’t pay bass players, and the industry doesn’t either. And once they get older and need to provide for their families, they must quit music altogether.
So, we asked, what if we built a label where the label itself made zero dollars? What if we cut out the middlemen and let the people making the music benefit? I sold my entire publishing catalog back to Capitol, used the money to buy this studio, and just started building.
Bradden Ford: That’s incredible. So, Jesse, how did you get involved?
Jesse Phillips: Chris and I were already friends, and when he shared his vision, it hit me—I had already built a label before. So, we started talking about the industry and what it could be. We’ve been here five days a week for eight months, designing a system that sustainably supports musicians, worship leaders, and songwriters.
Bradden Ford: It’s clear you’re passionate about making a shift in Christian music—not just for artists but for the people behind the scenes. Why do you think this shift is necessary?
Chris McClarney: At its core, it’s about honoring God as a creative being. We’re made in His image, yet Christian music often follows mainstream trends because labels need to repay their loans. But what happens when you remove financial pressure? You make real art again. Messy art takes risks and exists purely to glorify God—not to chase profit.
Jesse Phillips: Exactly. When you’re not worried about making a million dollars back, you can ask, what is this artist saying? What is God doing in their life? And how can we come alongside them instead of forcing them into a mold?
Bradden Ford: That’s a powerful mindset shift. So, what’s next? You guys are already releasing music—what can listeners expect?
Chris McClarney: Our first release is Same Gospel by musician Daniel Doss. It’s followed by Sweet By and By, also by Daniel. And then we have Simplify by Christian artist Nate Moore. Nate’s an incredible songwriter, and this is his first solo venture. We’ve got even more coming, including some fantastic music from Katie Fleming.
Bradden Ford: That’s exciting. Seeing this vision come to life must be so rewarding. What do you say to those who doubt this new model can work?
Jesse Phillips: It’s funny—people have been saying something needs to change in the industry for decades. Chris just dared to say, “Let’s do it.” And people are rallying around that. Mix engineers, who usually charge thousands of dollars, volunteer to help because they believe in it. The same goes for vocal producers, musicians, and songwriters. It’s an actual team effort.
Chris McClarney: The Kingdom of God is built on sacrifice. I sold my catalog, Jesse has gone eight months without a paycheck, and many others have sacrificed, too. But if this succeeds, it will be because of those sacrifices—not just ours, but the people in our community who are stepping up.
Bradden Ford: That’s incredible. So, how can people support what you’re doing?
Jesse Phillips: If you’re passionate about music and have skills—whether in production, design, social media, or anything else—reach out. We need a team to sustain and grow this vision.
Chris McClarney: And, of course, stream the music! Pre-save it, play it in the background, share it with friends. That helps, especially as we’re getting started.
Bradden Ford: Before we wrap up—Chris, Jesse, what’s your favorite breakfast cereal?
Chris McClarney: Lucky Charms.
Jesse Phillips: Special K.
*eveyone laughs*
Bradden Ford: I love it. Guys, thank you for sharing your heart and vision. We’ll be following along and cheering you on.
Chris McClarney: I appreciate you, man.
Jesse Phillips: Thanks for having us.
Bradden Ford is a Christian music junkie charged with maintaining NewReleaseToday's new release database of artists and releases. He lives just outside of Nashville, Tennessee.
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