With over three decades of ministry-minded music under his belt, Christian hip-hop veteran DPB (David Paul Brooks) returns with a stirring new anthem that’s tailor-made for such a time as this.

Released on May 23, 2025, “American Strong” is more than a song—it’s a faith-driven declaration of unity, purpose, and national revival. In a time of deep division and spiritual weariness, DPB offers a lyrical invitation to come together under God and stand firm in the identity of a people made in His image.

From its opening chant, “We are one yeah,” repeated with conviction and passion, DPB sets the tone for a track rooted in biblical principles and gospel truth. “American Strong” fuses modern beats with an unwavering message: America’s strength comes not from political power or cultural influence, but from our shared values, our God-given dignity, and our capacity to love one another across every dividing line.

The rhythm is infectious—an energetic backdrop that supports the song’s encouraging call to action. But it’s the lyrics that carry the real weight. Lines like “Stop the division, love is our mission” and “One for all and all for one” are simple but profound, evoking Scripture’s consistent plea for reconciliation, brotherhood, and servant-hearted leadership.

This isn’t merely patriotic sentiment—it’s rooted in the truth that “every nation, tribe, people and language” belongs to God (Revelation 7:9).

DPB, a former member of the Grammy and Dove Award-nominated group Disciples of Christ (D.O.C.), brings a voice seasoned by experience, trials, and triumphs. His delivery on this track is bold yet compassionate, declaring “We wrote this song just become as one” with the urgency of a pastor and the fire of a prophet. In his hands, hip-hop becomes a vessel of healing, infused with scriptural authority and contemporary relevance.

“American Strong” shines especially in its celebration of diversity. With lyrics such as “Yes, we are one color—Black, white, red, brown, yes my brother,” DPB points back to Genesis 1:27 and Acts 17:26, reminding listeners that unity is not erasure but celebration. Every life matters. Every voice belongs. In this, the song mirrors the heartbeat of the Church: many members, one body (1 Corinthians 12:12).

Another standout moment comes in the bridge where he declares, “We honor those who gave their lives to protect our freedoms and all of our rights.” It’s a powerful reminder that gratitude and freedom go hand in hand, and that faith and patriotism are not mutually exclusive. Rather, in “American Strong,” they work together—lifting our eyes from earthly troubles to eternal truths.

What truly sets this song apart in the world of Christian music is its hopeful outlook in the face of tension and uncertainty. Instead of lashing out at what’s wrong, DPB invites us into what’s right: forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and divine unity. His repeated invitation to “just become as one” echoes Christ’s prayer in John 17:21—that all of us may be one, just as He and the Father are one.

“American Strong” isn’t just a song for church playlists or holiday celebrations. It’s a call to spiritual arms. A reminder that now, more than ever, we must reflect Christ not only in word but in how we live, how we lead, and how we love.

DPB has once again proven that Christian hip-hop can speak to both the soul and the society. With “American Strong,” he offers a bold, biblically grounded anthem that reminds us who we are, whose we are, and what we’re capable of—together.

For fans of: TobyMac, Lecrae, Flame, Cross Movement
Key Scripture reference: Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

–Ray LaManna

The biggest fan weekend in Christian music, the 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards, is underway at Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Hotel. This evening (May 24), Colton Dixon, Ben Fuller, Katy Nichole and Danny Gokey took center stage at the Songwriters Showcase. This year’s feature event was hosted by eight-time Dove Award-winner Brandon Heath. See below for exclusive photos and videos from the event.

Songwriters Take Center Stage At 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend Showcase

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The 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards weekend will also feature a Sunday morning worship service with Cece Winans and Jonathan Pokluda. Nashville’s iconic OPRY House will welcome the Fan Awards on Sunday afternoon, airing on TBN on Friday, May 30th at 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET

Recently, JUNO-nominated artist Elenee announced her 2025 Canadian tour. Known for her powerful voice, deep-rooted faith, and captivating live performances, she is one of Canada’s most compelling voices in contemporary Christian and inspirational music.

Her tour kicks off this weekend and will include dates across Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Elenee will be joined by special guest Kaégan, an American alt-pop artist known for his vintage-infused sound, and rising Canadian talent Morrissa Nicole, who brings a powerful voice and presence to the Stittsville and Barrie shows.

Elenee recently made headlines with her 2025 JUNO nomination and her latest single “Depths“, a cinematic and soul-stirring collaboration with Kaégan that has received national radio play and major playlist placements.

Blending ethereal vocals, raw, faith-driven lyricism, and cinematic alt-pop production, DEPTHS offers a deeply moving listening and visual experience. It’s worship reimagined—with haunting melodies, lush retro textures, and a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Elenee 2025 Tour Dates (so far):
May 30 – Stittsville, ON (with Morrissa Nicole)
May 31 – Barrie, ON (with Morrissa Nicole)
June 14 – Toronto, ON
June 27 – Calgary, AB
October 24 – Lloydminster, SK/AB

Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry welcomed the 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards on May 25, 2025. We caught up with some of your favorite artists on the red carpet and pressroom; see below for links to our interviews which will be going live throughout the week! And, be sure to tune into the 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards airing on TBN Friday, May 30th at 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET.

EXCLUSIVE RED CARPET INTERVIEWS

• Terrian
• bodie
• Blanca
• Gracie Binion
• Leanna Crawford
• +More Coming Each Day This Week!

PRESS ROOM INTERVIEWS

• Coming Soon (May 30, 31)

PLUS: See more of our special coverage from the 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards weekend:

• Songwriters Take Center Stage At 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend Showcase
• Emerging Artists Shine At 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend Showcase
• Worship In The Round Raises Eyes To Heaven At 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend
• 12th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend Gets Underway With Kick-Off Concert

On tonight’s season finale of American Idol, Contemporary Christian and Gospel music was featured in the performances by both the competing artists and guest performers. Third place winner Breanna Nix performed Katy Nichole‘s “In Jesus Name” during the competition round.

Nix then later performed “Daddy’s DNA” alongside Brandon Lake. Also, finalist Canaan James Hill returned to perform “Melodies From Heaven” and “Love Theory” with Kirk Franklin.

Throughout this season, multiple artists have performed covers of Gospel and Contemporary Christian artists’ songs. CeCe Winans and Brandon Lake performed earlier this season on the Easter Sunday special episode. American Idol airs on ABC Sundays at 8pm ET. Streams next day on Hulu.

Contemporary Christian & Gospel Music Featured On 2025 Season Finale Of ‘American Idol’

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After asking listeners earlier this year to submit tour stop venue ideas, Curb Records’ Sidewalk Prophets is excited to share the first set of fan-voted venues for their previously announced “Looking Up Tour,” with select dates featuring “American Idol” album, Megan Danielle. Fans can purchase tickets on May 23.

“We’ve poured our hearts into the Looking Up album, and we can’t wait to share new music and this special experience with the fans. Prepare yourself for an incredible night!” shares Sidewalk Prophets frontman, Dave Frey.

Beginning in July, Sidewalk Prophets will play full band shows at various venues across the country selected by the listeners who live their lives to their music, a tradition that began in 2017 and has since resulted in more than 500 dates played in rooms chosen by the concertgoers themselves.

Tickets are on sale beginning May 23. Fans can also purchase a premium ticket, which includes a pre-show VIP Q&A with Dave Frey. See the first 11 announced dates and venues below.

Sidewalk Prophets dropped their highly anticipated 13-track studio project, Looking Up, earlier this year. Exploring what it means to be a follower of Christ, it encourages listeners to extend grace to themselves and forgiveness to others. Featuring guest vocals from singer/songwriter Ben Fuller and “American Idol” alum Megan Danielle, Looking Up blends the thoughtful lyricism and signature storytelling the Dove Award-winning band has long been known for.

Stream or purchase Looking Up. For a full list of tour dates and more information, visit www.sidewalkprophets.com.

Looking Up Tour Dates

7/17 – Lamar, MO – Thiebaud Auditorium

7/18 – Algona, IA – Wilcox Performing Arts Center

7/20 – Worland, WY – Worland Middle School Auditorium

7/23 – Riverton, WY – Robert A. Peck Art Center

8/2 – Van Wert, OH – Calvary Evangelical Church

8/3 – Campbellsville, KY – Elk Horn Baptist Church

8/5 – Pt. Pleasant, WV – Mason County Fairgrounds

8/7 – Herrin, IL – Purpose House Church

8/10 – Kokomo, IN – Abundant Life Church

9/14 – Sunnyvale, TX – Sunnyvale First Baptist

10/17 – Greenville, SC – First Presbyterian Church of Greenville, SC

Multi-platinum Christian artist Jeremy Camp has a full season ahead — and fans have one more reason to celebrate. For the first time ever, I Still Believe, the powerful biopic chronicling Camp’s life and journey through love, loss, and faith, will be available on Netflix. This exciting streaming debut opens the door for a whole new global audience to encounter his moving story. On first weekend debut I Still Believe has been parked at #4 spot on top 10 movies in the USA!

But Camp’s impact doesn’t stop there.

Currently on tour across the U.S., Camp has also been making memories in the studio, recently recording a heartfelt rendition of “Again” his current hit single alongside his daughters — a family moment that has touched fans everywhere. He’s also gearing up to host the K-LOVE Fan Awards, further cementing his role as a leading voice in the Christian music community.

Later this year, Jeremy will headline two major evangelistic outreach events in the Philippines and the Czech Republic, continuing his mission to share hope and faith across the globe.

“I’ve been so grateful for everything happening right now,” Camp says. “Seeing I Still Believe reach Netflix is just another way this story can touch lives, and doing it while walking alongside my daughters and preparing for ministry opportunities abroad makes it even more meaningful.”

BMI today announced that the 2025 BMI Christian Awards will be held on June 17 at the organization’s Nashville office. Jackie Patillo, Gospel Music Association President, will be honored with the BMI Spotlight Award for her unwavering dedication to the genre and illustrious career as an advocate for all Christian and Gospel music creators.

In addition, BMI’s Christian Songwriter of the Year, Song of the Year, Publisher of the Year and the 25 most-performed Christian songs of the previous year will be announced. The private event will be hosted by BMI’s AVP of Creative, Nashville, Leslie Roberts and BMI’s President & CEO, Mike O’Neill.

“Through Jackie’s dynamic leadership, innovative vision, and unwavering love for Christian and Gospel music, she’s been able to bring both genres together through a message that unifies all while reaching a new generation of music lovers,” said Roberts.

“The work that she’s done over her illustrious career is inspiring, and we’re thrilled to be presenting Jackie with the BMI Spotlight Award. We’re also looking forward to celebrating all our award-winning songwriters and producers, highlighting their achievements through community, worship and music.”

The Spotlight Award salutes Patillo’s rich history of championing Gospel music creators and the genre’s legacy throughout her career spanning over three decades. As a veteran music executive with posts at Star Song, Benson, Integrity, and Verity Records, she has helped shape the careers of numerous iconic artists, including Natalie Grant, Stephen Hurd, Lisa McClendon, Donnie McClurkin, Joe Pace, Israel & New Breed, Marvin Sapp, Alvin Slaughter and many more.

As the President of the Gospel Music Association and GMA Foundation, where she has led the organization since 2010, Patillo has taken her commitment to advocating for all Christian and Gospel music makers to a new level. Under her leadership, the GMA has expanded its reach, unified the genre’s diverse voices, and strengthened its mission to expose, promote, and celebrate Gospel music across all styles and generations.

In addition to her day-to-day work, Patillo also serves as the Co-Executive Producer of the GMA Dove Awards, Gospel music’s biggest night, viewed by over 3 million people annually on TBN. She was inducted into the Stellar Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2019, the SOURCE Hall of Fame in 2023, and was honored on her 10th anniversary with the Jackie Patillo Leadership Dove Award, now presented annually to an outstanding industry leader.

In receiving the BMI Spotlight Award, Patillo joins an exclusive group of honorees including Dottie Leonard Miller, Randy Edelman and Frank Gari.

Pop and urban singer Forrest Frank just topped the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart with his latest record, Child of God II.

The LP debuted at No. 1 on the chart this week, meawhile sitting at No. 12 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 3 on the Official Charts Company (OCC) UK Christian & Gospel Albums. The album follows last week’s No. 1 record, Child of God, which makes Frank the first artist to replace himself at No. 1 on the chart.

Child of God II contains tracks from several previous attempts, namely the extended plays Amen and Woke Up This Morning, both of which reached No. 3 on the Top Christian Albums Chart.

Child of God II features several hit singles, including “Your Way’s Better”, which currently is at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs and No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100, after last week’s high of 61. “Nothing Else” is at No. 4 on the Hot Christian Songs.

The album, released on May 9th, acts as the sequel to Forrest Frank’s chart-topping record Child of God, released in July of last year. The album spent 35 weeks as the No. 1 album on the Top Christian Albums chart, tying for 10th with LeAnn Rimes’ You Light Up My Life and P.O.D.’s Satellite as the most weeks spent at the top of the chart.

There’s a rare kind of beauty that comes from learning how to let go—a delicate grace that Eddy Mann captures with stunning clarity in his latest single, “Fly, Fly Away.” Released on May 12th as the sixth single from his acclaimed album Turn Up the Divine, the track is a poignant meditation on release, acceptance, and spiritual trust.

In “Fly, Fly Away,” Mann invites listeners into a space of surrender. With soft, soulful vocals over a bed of Country, Christian, and Southern Gospel Rock influences, he delivers a message that feels as timeless as it is timely. Life, after all, is filled with seasons—and knowing when to lovingly release what no longer serves is one of its greatest acts of faith.

The song’s lyrical simplicity is part of its brilliance. Phrases like “Fly away before darkness falls / Fly away to where destiny calls” evoke both the innocence of a lullaby and the wisdom of a seasoned pilgrim. Each stanza reads like a gentle blessing, encouraging the listener—or perhaps a loved one—to spread their wings and soar toward God’s unknown but trustworthy plan.

Eddy Mann has always been a master at weaving spiritual truths into the everyday textures of life. His roots in Philadelphia soul are evident in the warm, resonant tone of his voice, while his gift for Americana storytelling shines in the way “Fly, Fly Away” feels both personal and universal. It’s a song that could comfort a parent sending a child off to college, a friend letting go of a loved one, or anyone facing the bittersweet changes that mark our earthly journeys.

Musically, “Fly, Fly Away” is refreshingly understated. The arrangement leaves space for the message to breathe: a gentle acoustic guitar, a steady rhythmic heartbeat, and tasteful flourishes that hint at Mann’s gospel-rock background without overwhelming the song’s intimate feel. There are no grand climaxes or soaring choruses—only a humble, open-handed offering. It’s this restraint that allows the listener to sit with the song’s emotions, to pray with it, to feel seen in their own moments of letting go.

The accompanying music video (available on YouTube) complements the song’s reflective spirit with simple, heartfelt imagery. It’s a visual prayer—quiet, thoughtful, and full of light—that mirrors Mann’s gift for turning everyday moments into sacred experiences.

In a career spanning more than 20 albums, Eddy Mann has made it his mission to uplift, inspire, and bring light into the world. His songs have topped Christian and Americana charts alike, and yet his heart has remained steady: focused not on accolades but on service. “I’m driven to write, to record, and to perform by the opportunity to bring a smile, a light, or just a moment of reflection into someone’s life,” Mann shares.

“Fly, Fly Away” is a shining example of that mission fulfilled. In a world that often celebrates holding on at all costs, Mann offers a counter-testimony: that there is holiness in release, in trust, and in the quiet hope that God’s hands are strong enough to catch whatever we set free.

For fans of Michael Card, Andrew Peterson, and Fernando Ortega, Eddy Mann’s “Fly, Fly Away” will feel like a familiar and much-needed companion. It’s not just a song to listen to—it’s a song to live by.

As the final notes fade, one can’t help but feel a little lighter, a little braver, and a little more ready to trust the One who calls us all to fly.

Rating: 5/5

–James Beaverton