David Bunker on Artist Care & Nurturing the Creative

John Thompson November 15, 2022

David Bunker, who currently serves as the chaplain of Judson University’s Music Business and Entrepreneurship program, and has a long history as both a music industry leader and as an artist and songwriter himself, joins JJT to talk about the idea of “artist care” from the perspective of both creatives and those who wish to serve them. Bunker has been deeply embedded in the True Tunes DNA since John first shared his vision for a store, venue, magazine, and community that would dare to engage music – and art in general – with brain, heart, and guts fully engaged. John was just 16 years old then – the newly minted “music buyer” at a Christian bookstore in Wheaton, IL, and Bunker had recently transitioned from being in the Terry Taylor-produced band Shelter to working for a record label. “He was the first adult to take me and my crazy ideas seriously,” John remembers. “And all through our journey – from the exciting highs to the devastating lows, he has been by my side with words of wisdom, compassion, encouragement, and care.”

Bunker, who is also a poet, author, and leader of creative care retreats, joins JJT nearly 35 years into their friendship to talk about the growing importance of Artist Care.

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Also, don’t miss David Bunker’s special appearance on the BLITZEN TRAPPER episode of the podcast.