For nearly half a century, multi-Grammy and Dove Award winner, Bill Gaither has been a musical trailblazer. His reputation as a performer, songwriter and mentor for newly-discovered artists is known world-wide. His beloved Homecoming Series has consistently topped sales charts and attracted an ever-increasing audience.

The 90-year-old music mogul continues to tour regularly, presenting over 50 concerts annually, and has done so for more than four decades. This December, Gaither will present more than a half dozen Christmas concert events throughout the holiday season. 

The Gaither Homecoming Christmas Tour includes concert events that will feature Gaither’s own multi-award winning group, Gaither Vocal Band. The Gospel Music Hall of Fame members will ring in the holidays with joyful harmonies and signature stylings. These special events will celebrate the birth of the Savior and the unconditional love of the Father who continually brings light to a dark world. Each evening will include timeless gospel classics, as well as refreshing, inspiring new favorites, in addition to classic Christmas standards guaranteed to bring holiday cheer.

Taking the stage this December with the Gaither Vocal Band, featuring Gaither, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles and Reggie Smith, will be multi-talented singer/songwriter/speaker and former Vocal Band alumni Mark Lowry, as well as multi-award winning vocal group, Karen Peck & New River, renown musical family, The Hoppers, popular female vocalists, Angela Primm and Ladye Love Smith, and talented male vocalists, Chris Blue, Woody Wright and Gene McDonald. Gaither’s musical entourage, comprised of Kevin Williams, Matthew Holt and Michael Rowsey, will also add musical delight to each evening.

Those interested in purchasing tickets for the 2026 Gaither Christmas Homecoming Tour may sign up for the pre-sale that happens on July 29th at https://bit.ly/GVBChristmas2026SignUp. Tickets go on sale to the general public on July 31st at 10am local time.

2026 GAITHER CHRISTMAS HOMECOMING TOUR PRESENTED BY TPR LIVE

December 3 – Auburn Hills, MI

December 4 – Dayton OH

December 5 – Chattanooga TN (Karen Peck & New River will not be appearing on this date)

December 10 – Mobile AL

December 11 – Laurel MS

December 12 – Dothan AL

December 13 – Brandon FL

The 40 Days of Christian Music festival — the world’s largest — returns tomorrow for its sixth consecutive year at the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Drawing tens of thousands of guests from around the world to northern Kentucky, this huge event, July 28 — September 5, features dozens of prominent Christian performers and speakers for an unforgettable experience. This year sees the addition of Jeremy Camp, Grammy Award nominee and winner of five GMA Dove Awards, singing September 5.

Attendees can not only explore two of America’s best-known Christian attractions (the life-size Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter and high-tech Creation Museum, near Cincinnati) but also enjoy live performances from some of the biggest names in Christian music in state-of-the-art facilities — creating an atmosphere where faith and music come together in a meaningful way.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of remarkable in Christian music. Artists joining Camp include CAIN, Crowder, Passion, Matthew West, Jamie MacDonald, Jon Reddick, Cochren & Co., David Phelps, Tasha Layton, Jason Crabb, Triumphant Quartet, Karen Peck & New River, Mark Trammell Quartet, The Isaacs, The Inspirations, Gold City, and Joseph Habedank, among many others. In total, more than 100 artists will take the stage throughout the 40-day event with performances every day, except Sundays.

All concerts are included free with admission to the attractions. Annual passes are available and include unlimited admission to the Ark and Creation Museum, as well as free parking, for a year — enabling pass-holders to come to as many concerts as they choose at both attractions.

The event is produced by Abraham Productions under the leadership of CEO Ray Flynn. Known for organizing faith-based concerts, conferences, and large-scale gatherings across the country, Flynn shares his heart behind the festival: “I am honored to bring the world’s largest Christian music festival to the top Christian attractions in America. My vision has always been to bring together multiple genres of music to make an eternal impact on people of all ages and backgrounds. We are also blessed to have outstanding speakers like Ken Ham, the visionary behind the Ark, who provide solid biblical teaching and encouragement daily.”

Ham added: “Millions of people across America love the various styles of Christian music we offer at the Ark and Creation Museum, the two top family-friendly Christian themed attractions in the world. Festivalgoers can tour the life-size Ark, explore the beautiful grounds, take their children or grandchildren to the playground and carousel, and meet the zoo animals.”

Ham continued: “I also look forward to reconnecting with Jeremy Camp. I met him at the Creation Museum in 2015 when he and his family took a tour.”

Festival sponsors are Coca-Cola Consolidated, AdelFi Christian Banking, The Savior Brand, Destiny Rescue, Singing at Sea and SingingNews.

Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter KRISTENICOLE invites listeners on a heartfelt journey back to the beginning with the release of her inspiring new single, “Take Me Back To Genesis.”

The song reflects on humanity’s desire to return to the perfection of God’s original creation – a place where there was no pain, fear, sickness, heartbreak, or sin. While acknowledging the struggles believers face each day, the song points to the promise found in Christ: that this world is not our forever home. For those who follow Jesus, Heaven is the ultimate restoration – the new Eden where every tear will be wiped away.

KristeNicole Releases ‘Take Me Back to Genesis’

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“Every one of us has moments when we wish life could be simpler,” says KRISTENICOLE. “This song reminds us that although we can’t go back to the Garden of Eden, God has prepared something even greater for those who trust Him. Our hope isn’t behind us – it’s ahead of us.”

Blending traditional country influences with contemporary Christian inspiration, KRISTENICOLE’s authentic vocals and heartfelt storytelling continue to connect with audiences across the country. “Take Me Back To Genesis” encourages listeners to keep their eyes on eternity while faithfully walking through today’s challenges.

The release follows a season of growing recognition for KRISTENICOLE, including multiple national and international award nominations celebrating her songwriting, vocals, and inspirational music. Her ministry through music continues to encourage audiences with songs centered on faith, grace, redemption, and the unwavering love of God.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering KRISTENICOLE, “Take Me Back To Genesis” is a must-hear track that speaks directly to the heart and challenges the mind.

‘Heaven Is Full of Criminals‘ is a new Americana-flavored Christian folk single from Rick Lee James featuring legendary guitarist Phil Keaggy (Guitarist, Songwriter, and Dove Award Recipient).

Inspired by the story of the thief on the cross in Luke 23, the song asks a provocative question: What if one of the first people welcomed into paradise was a criminal?

While the title may raise eyebrows, the song ultimately celebrates grace, redemption, and the surprising breadth of God’s mercy. Blending acoustic storytelling, roots influences, and expressive guitar work, ‘Heaven Is Full of Criminals‘ reminds listeners that redemption is possible, mercy is real, and no one is beyond hope.

Rick Lee James Releases Americana-Flavored Christian Folk Song ‘Heaven Is Full Of Criminals’ Featuring Legendary Guitarist Phil Keaggy

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The chorus declares: “If Jesus forgives all manner of them, Then maybe there’s still hope for me.”

“I’m excited about this new song by Rick Lee James called – Heaven Is Full Of Criminals! Give it a good listen, as it really tells the story of mercy and redemption”, comments Phil Keaggy.

“It reminds me of how God showed His love for us through His son, Jesus Christ! This song shows us that whoever you are, whatever you have done against God’s loving commandments, still His mercy endures forever! Jesus came not to call the righteous but sinners – not the healthy, but the sick. I feel blessed to have played guitar on this special song!”

Today, eleven-time GRAMMY nominee and multi-platinum selling artist Tauren Wells has released an electric new song, “What A Miracle Feels Like (Live)” featuring the incomparable Naomi Raine. The powerful moment was recorded in front of a sold-out crowd at Austin City Limits Moody Theater in Austin, TX and serves as a testament that the small moments in life are a miracle and proof that God is present.

Tauren Wells Joined By Naomi Raine For ‘What A Miracle Feels Like (live)’

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“What A Miracle Feels Like” is the latest to be released from Tauren’s forthcoming live album, Here Comes the Church, which will be available on October 2nd. The highly anticipated song has already received over 4 million views on clips across socials and the studio version has had a massive impact with over 25 million views, making it Tauren’s fastest growing song on socials to date.

On “What A Miracle Feels Like” Naomi shares – “I love that ‘What A Miracle’ reminds us we’re serving a God who still does the impossible. No matter what things look like today, God is faithful, and He always has the final say. My prayer is that this song gives people the courage to believe again, to hold onto His promises, and to worship Him from a place of faith—not just because they’ve seen the miracle, but because they know who He is.”

Tauren Wells is a multi-platinum recording artist, bestselling author, and dynamic faith leader who has inspired millions through his music, message, and ministry. With 11 GRAMMY nominations, eight GMA Dove Awards, seven #1 radio hits, and over 2.5 billion global streams, he has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary Christian music.

In 2025, Wells released his debut book Joy Bomb: Unleash Jesus’s Explosive Joy for an Extraordinary Life, which quickly became a #1 Amazon New Release and ECPA bestseller, while his breakout single “Take It All Back” earned RIAA Gold certification and topped multiple radio charts. His RIAA-certified singles—platinum hits “Known” and “Hills and Valleys,” and gold singles “God’s Not Done With You,” “Famous For (I Believe),” and “Take It All Back” —continue to resonate deeply with listeners.

Known for blending gospel, pop, hip-hop, and R&B, Wells has collaborated with a wide range of artists from H.E.R. and Elevation Worship to Lecrae and Tobymac. Having previously toured with legends including Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey, he has captivated audiences worldwide and continues to lead both on and off stage.

UK singer-songwriter and worship leader Elle Limebear has signed with Decca Records, becoming the legendary label’s first contemporary Christian artist. Available today, her new single, “Give Me Joy,” marks the beginning of a new collaboration for both Limebear and Decca, whose nearly century-long legacy includes sacred, liturgical, and choral recordings dating back to 1929.

Elle Limebear Signs With Decca Records As First Contemporary Christian Artist; Releases New Single ‘Give Me Joy’

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Following the success of her independently released album Welcome to the Bloodline, Limebear’s music caught the attention of Decca’s A&R team, leading to a partnership that underscores the growing influence of contemporary Christian music within today’s broader music landscape.

“Signing with Decca is an incredible honour,” says Limebear. “It’s one of the UK’s most iconic record labels with such a rich musical legacy. The opportunity to partner with a label team that wants to help take these songs of faith to more people is incredibly exciting.”

Fiona Pope, Head of A&R at Decca, said: “We were immediately captivated by the joy and positivity Elle radiates, and that lives within her fans too. She has an incredible talent for writing songs that speak to her generation, with a voice that goes straight to the heart – a natural fit for Decca.”

Her first release with Decca, “Give Me Joy,” captures that heart. Inspired by the beloved British hymn “Oil In My Lamp,” the song reimagines its familiar chorus with new verses and melodies, introducing a timeless message of lasting joy to a new generation. After becoming a standout moment during Limebear’s live set with a powerful response from thousands of young people at the UK’s Satellites Festival, she knew it was a song she wanted to share more widely.

“‘Give Me Joy’ came from a really simple idea: taking something that so many of us grew up singing and reworking it for a new generation,” Limebear explains. “My hope is that it gives people a glimpse of the joy that my faith has given me, the kind of joy that carries us through every season and doesn’t disappear when life gets difficult.”

International artist, producer, and songwriter CalledOut Music releases his infectious new single, “What A Life,” available today on all streaming platforms. The uplifting track is the latest preview of his highly anticipated album, The Room, arriving August 21. Listen to “What A Life” now, watch the accompanying music video.

CalledOut Music Releases New Single ‘What A Life’ New Album ‘The Room’ Releases August 21st

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Blending his signature Afro-Gospel sound with vibrant R&B and pop influences, “What A Life” is a celebration of gratitude, joy, and the gift of life. Filled with irresistible rhythms and feel-good energy, the song captures the warmth and creativity that define The Room, inviting listeners into the musical space where faith, community, and authentic expression come together.

“I wanted ‘What A Life’ to be a reminder that even in the middle of life’s challenges, there’s still so much to celebrate,” shares CalledOut Music. “Gratitude changes perspective, and my hope is that this song leaves people smiling, dancing, and remembering just how good God has been.”

Releasing alongside the song is a visually striking music video directed by acclaimed creative director Dakota Kingrea. Filmed in a uniquely creative style, the video perfectly complements the song’s uplifting message with a vibrant, stylish aesthetic that matches its high energy.

Created after his move to the United States, The Room marks a new artistic chapter for CalledOut Music. Recorded live at Nashville’s Gnome Studios, the project was built the old-fashioned way, with musicians gathered together in one room to write, play, and capture each song in real time. The result is a vibrant collection rooted in creativity, authenticity, and human connection. Drawing inspiration from his Nigerian heritage, British upbringing, and life in America, the upcoming album blends Afro-Soul, R&B, pop, gospel, and worship into a sound that is uniquely his own.

With more than 500,000 monthly Spotify listeners, 120,000 YouTube subscribers, 300,000 Instagram followers, and 420,000 TikTok followers, CalledOut Music continues to reach audiences around the world with music that bridges cultures and genres. Following the release of The Room, he will support Pat Barrett on select U.S. tour dates.

BMI celebrated the best in Christian music this week at the 2026 BMI Christian Awards held at its Nashville office on Music Row.

The evening paid tribute to the top Christian songwriters and music publishers behind the 25 most-performed songs of the previous year, and revealed BMI’s Christian Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year. The private event was hosted by BMI’s AVP of Creative, Nashville Leslie Roberts; EVP, Chief Revenue and Creative Officer, Mike Steinberg; and BMI’s CEO Mike O’Neill.

BMI’s Christian Song of the Year went to “Made For More,” written by Jessie Early, Jonathan Smith and Blake Wiggins. The hit song, performed by Josh Baldwin, has generated over 95 million global streams and became Baldwin’s first No. One hit on the Billboard’s Christian AC Airplay chart.

Leading up to Song of the Year, BMI named the 25 most-performed Christian songs of the previous year including “Altar,” written by Forrest Frank, Lasanna “Ace” Harris, Steve Rice and Willie Scott Jr.; “Nothin’ Sweeter,” written by TobyMac and Jordan Mohilowski; “Running Back To You,” written by Seph Schlueter; “Thank you Jesus for the Blood,” written by Charity Gayle alongside Steven Musso; and “Unsung Hero,” written by Luke Smallbone. In naming the top songs, BMI also recognized 18 first-time award winners such as Leanna Crawford, Frankie Holleman, Zachary Kale, Patrick Mayberry, Steven Musso and Megan Woods.

Steven Furtick was named BMI Christian Songwriter of the Year for writing three of the 25 most-performed songs, including “Another One,” “GOODBYE YESTERDAY” and “LION.” The multi-GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter who has co-written all three of these major worship tracks, serves as a primary executive producer and songwriter for both Elevation Worship (“Another One,” “Lion”) and Elevation Rhythm (“Goodbye Yesterday”).

Through these music collectives, he has co-written multiple defining faith-based global anthems and earned six No. One chart toppers, including the 2025 BMI Christian Song of the Year “Praise,” “Graves Into Gardens” and “Talking to Jesus.”

Capitol CMG Publishing brought home Publisher of the Year for representing 19 of the 25 most-performed songs of the year including BMI’s Christian Song of the Year, “Made For More,” as well as “Altar,” “Grave Robber,” “If I Got Jesus,” “My God Can,” “Somebody Prayed,” “Take You At Your Word,” “The Truth” and “Who Else.”

The 2026 BMI Christian Awards were sponsored by Studio Bank and opened with a prayer from 2018 BMI Compass Award recipient Elwyn Raymer. The evening featured special performances, including Mississippi native Belle Frantz’s soulful rendition of the classic hymn, “Amazing Grace.” 2022 BMI Icon Steven Curtis Chapman spoke highly of Drew Parker as he welcomed him to stage for his performance of “Blame Jesus.” Jamie MacDonald gave the final performance of the evening with her No. One breakout single, “Left It In The River.”

 Prime Video released the official trailer and key art for The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls, offering the first extended look at the cast and creator of The Chosen as audiences have never seen them before.

Jonathan Roumie (Jesus), Paras Patel (Matthew), Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene), Noah James (Andrew), Luke Dimyan (Judas), and series creator and executive producer Dallas Jenkins trade the set for the wilderness as they leap from planes, scale cliffs, eat scorpions, zipline over canyons, and navigate some of the country’s most rugged terrain under the guidance of renowned adventurer Bear Grylls.

The series premieres August 9, 2026, on Prime Video, with all six episodes available at launch in the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, the UK, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

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For decades, Bear has survived dangerous expeditions around the globe, anchored by his faith in Jesus. Now he’s taking the stars of the global hit series on missions into the unknown. Across challenging environments ranging from Utah’s Castle Valley and Canyonlands to the Ausable River, the Colorado River, the Great Basin Desert, and the Adirondack Forest, Bear pushes his guests beyond their comfort zones while exploring what makes them tick and drawing out deeply personal conversations about faith and spirituality.

In addition to being a renowned adventurer, survivalist, and creator of the nonfiction hit series Man vs. Wild, Running Wild with Bear Grylls, and The Island with Bear Grylls, Bear Grylls is the author of the faith-based bestseller Soul Fuel and the recent The Greatest Story Ever Told — a retelling of the life of Jesus reflecting his own deep faith and Christian beliefs.

The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls is produced by 5&2 Studios, alongside The Natural Studios and Workerbee. Executive producers include Bear Grylls, Dallas Jenkins, Brad Pelo, Katherine Warnock, Ben Simon, Delbert Shoopman, Ben Mitchell, Rick Murray, Brent Ryan Green, Ryan Swanson, and Tyler Thompson. All six episodes are directed by Robert Austin Vanover.

In 2025, Amazon MGM Studios inked a first-look, multi-faceted deal with 5&2 Studios. The wide-ranging deal provides streaming rights to the first five seasons of The Chosen, as well as The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls, The Chosen Adventures, and Joseph of Egypt for Prime Video. The pact also includes theatrical and streaming rights to The Chosen’s upcoming final two seasons, which will follow the Crucifixion (Season Six) and the Resurrection (Season Seven). Lionsgate handles global distribution for The Chosen and The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls.

BMI celebrated the best in Gospel music today at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards held at BMI’s Nashville office. Multiple award-winning artist and songwriter Kierra Sheard received the BMI Impact Award in recognition of her impressive career and impact on the future of gospel music. Sheard was also honored as BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year in a three-way tie with her brother J Drew Sheard II and Kerry Douglas.

BMI’s Gospel Song of the Year went to “Lead Me On,” and Publisher of the Year went to Capital CMG Publishing. The most-performed Gospel songs of the previous year were also announced at the private ceremony hosted by BMI’s CEO, Mike O’Neill; EVP, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer Mike Steinberg and Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

Douglas and siblings Kierra Sheard and J Drew Sheard II received Songwriter of the Year for each writing three of the most performed Gospel songs of the previous year. Douglas was honored for “Don’t Give Up,” “Windows” and “Without You,” bringing his total BMI Awards up to five, commemorating his successful career. J Drew and Kierra Sheard were recognized for co-writing their hits “All Yours,” “RAIN DOWN ON ME,” and “Send It Down,” marking the second time the duo has been honored with this coveted title, after their first win in 2022.

The BMI Impact Award tributes kicked off with a heartfelt video message from Sheard’s aunt and 2024 BMI Trailblazer of Gospel Music honoree Dorinda Clark-Cole, and her mother Karen Clark Sheard also gave a moving speech congratulating her daughter for the “well-deserved honor.”

To pay homage to Sheard’s illustrious career, tribute performances kicked off with Darrel Walls on “Indescribable,” joined by DOE who gave a soulful rendition of “This is Me.” Tasha Cobbs Leonard ended the tributes by getting the crowd to their feet for an uplifting performance of “Hang On” with Karen Clark Sheard and Tamela Mann singing along from the audience.

Upon presenting Sheard with the BMI Impact Award, Steinberg said, “Today, we celebrate you for inspiring us through all your endeavors: your innovative songwriting, your powerful artistry and your ministry that touches hearts around the world.”

In receiving the afternoon’s highest honor, Sheard thanked her family and members of the audience, sharing, “God has a way to reward faithfulness before He rewards popularity… and tonight is a reminder that if you keep saying yes, He knows exactly where to find you.” She added her appreciation to BMI, saying, “I want to thank you for pushing gospel music forward. You make this industry worth staying in. What matters is what you represent, that someone still believes in a song that is worth protecting and paying for.”

The ceremony concluded with Sheard bringing the audience to their feet singing her hit song “You Are.”

Throughout the afternoon, BMI saluted the 25 most-performed gospel songs of the previous year, leading up to the highly anticipated BMI Gospel Song of the Year award, which went to “Lead Me On” co-written by Jonathan Jay, Chandler Moore and Jeff Pardo. Performed by Moore, the hit song was a lead single and a standout track from his 2024 solo album, Chandler Moore: Live In Los Angeles. The song marked Moore’s first number one as a solo artist and spent an impressive 28 weeks on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay charts overall.

The ceremony, which kicked off with a performance of “I Love the Lord” sung by Keyla Richardson, also highlighted 16 first-time winners, including Adia, Jazze Pha, Travis Finley, Dustin “SLATE” Slater, Keran Vega and more, for co-writing the award-winning songs.

BMI’s Gospel Publisher of the Year went to Capitol CMG for having the highest publisher share percentage of the top 25 songs, including BMI’s Gospel Song of the Year, “Lead Me On.”