Best known for reshaping the sound and soul of Christian hip-hop with unapologetic authenticity, GRAMMY Award-winning artist, author, activist, and investor Lecraeis now bringing that same raw honesty to the page. His new book, Set Me Free: The Good News of God’s Relentless Pursuit (Zondervan Gift Books; ISBN 9780310460923), arrives December 2nd, offering a deeply personal collection of poems and essays about identity, healing, and liberation through faith.
In the book, Lecrae writes with the same lyrical conviction that has defined his music, exploring what it means to wrestle with shame, embrace grace, and walk in true spiritual freedom. Through a blend of poetic meditations and confessional reflections, he invites readers into his journey of dismantling false expectations, reclaiming purpose, and finding peace in God’s love.
“I know what it’s like to wear chains you can’t see. I wanted to put words to the process of breaking them, so others know they’re not alone in rebuilding their lives.”
Lecrae takes the themes he’s known for, justice, faith, and wholeness, and pushes them further, offering raw insight for anyone wrestling with belonging, doubt, and hope.
Set Me Free is for:
Readers craving bold, faith-rooted storytelling
Fans of Lecrae’s music and cultural voice
Anyone ready to break free from shame, brokenness, or identity struggles
“True freedom,” Lecrae says, “isn’t the absence of scars but the courage to let them tell the story of how you were rebuilt, trusting that redemption is big enough for us all.”
Set Me Free is available for preorder now wherever books are sold.
Sun Label Group proudly celebrates its artists who have been nominated for the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards, with recognition spanning blues, jazz, bluegrass, and gospel. Representing Sun Records, Green Hill, and Gaither Music, this year’s nominees reflect the label group’s diverse legacy and ongoing commitment to timeless artistry.
Robert Randolph’s Preacher Kids (Sun Records) earned a nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album, honoring the pedal-steel virtuoso’s deeply personal exploration of faith, family, and the roots of American music. Deborah Silver’s Basie Rocks! (Green Hill) featuring The Count Basie Orchestra is nominated for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album, a vibrant reimagining of rock classics through the swing and sophistication of Basie’s iconic sound. The SteelDrivers’ Outrun(Sun Records) is nominated for Best Bluegrass Album, continuing the band’s tradition of pushing the genre forward with its soulful grit and unmistakable harmonies.
Nominated for Best Roots Gospel Album, the GRAMMY-winning, Gospel Music Hall of Famers the Gaither Vocal Band continued their legacy of recording inspiring messages of faith showcasing tight harmonies with their new release, Then Came the Morning, (Gaither Music) produced by Academy of Country Music winner Gordon Mote and the legendary Bill Gaither.
Grand Ole Opry Members and Gospel Music Hall of Famers The Isaacs reimagined some of the most popular worship songs of the era, creating Praise & Worship: More Than a Hollow Hallelujah (Gaither Music), produced by Ben Isaacs and The Isaacs and nominated for Best Roots Gospel Album. The family added their intricate blends and seamless arrangements to modern-day classics along with an all-new worship song of their own.
“I’m so grateful to have had the vision to team up with a great producer like Shooter Jennings and the legendary Sun Records to build on the history of the blues,” said Randolph. “Together, we found new ways to keep the blues alive — exploring fresh arrangements, new collaborations, and writing songs that I hope will last forever.”
“I am beyond grateful to every single person who touched Basie Rocks! and helped bring it to life,” shared Silver. “I’m so honored to be recognized by my peers in this amazing industry. Much love and thanks to Scotty Barnhart and The Count Basie Orchestra along with the team at Green Hill/Primary Wave. I’m truly thankful to everyone, and I mean EVERYONE! I haven’t stopped shaking…and neither has my dog, Sugar!”
“We couldn’t be more honored or excited about this Grammy nomination for Best Bluegrass Album!” said Tammy Rogers of The SteelDrivers. “What a way to cap off our 20th anniversary year and tour! Thank you to Sun Records and our entire team for all your hard work! Let’s go 2026!”
“I am deeply grateful for this Grammy nomination and especially thankful for the incredible men who make up the Gaither Vocal Band,” said Bill Gaither. “Their dedication and artistry over these past few years—and particularly on this latest project—have been nothing short of inspiring. It is an honor for all of us to be recognized once again by the Recording Academy.”
“Humbled. Honored. Appreciated. Blessed,” said the Isaacs.
“All these words come to mind when we try to express our gratitude for our new Grammy nomination,” they continued. “We don’t sing for accolades or recognition. We do it because God gave us a gift and expects us to use it to the best of our ability. Being nominated in this prestigious awards program feels like a big hug from the industry and from God. We don’t take it for granted and we certainly recognize so many others who deserve to be on this list. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for choosing our album, a collection of songs we recorded, mainly, for an audience of One. To God be the glory!”
“These nominations reflect the heart of what Sun Label Group stands for — music that’s authentic, enduring, and rooted in great storytelling,” said Paul Sizelove, President of Sun Label Group. “Our artists continue to honor tradition while creating something new, and we couldn’t be more proud to see them recognized by the Recording Academy.”
Sizelove continued: “I’m equally proud of our team at Sun Label Group. This company has built something truly special — a culture of collaboration and care that shows up in every project we touch. These nominations belong not only to the artists, but to everyone across our labels who pour their hearts into this work every day.”
As Sun Label Group continues to expand its reach across genres, this year’s nominations reinforce its role as a creative home for artists who embody both legacy and innovation.
On Saturday, November 22 at 7:00 PM, two of Christian music’s most celebrated artists—nine-time GRAMMY nominee Natalie Grant and three-time GRAMMY nominee Danny Gokey—will take the stage at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage for a spectacular evening of holiday music and worship. This special New York City tour stop features a full orchestra and a 250+ member choir, and will include the world premiere of One Day, a new Christmas musical from composer and conductor John Bolin.
“Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey set the stage for the season, delivering a show packed with holiday cheer, timeless music, and heartfelt worship.” ~CCM Magazine
In the first half of the evening, Grant and Gokey will deliver a dynamic performance of reimagined holiday classics and powerful original songs, accompanied by the full orchestra and choir. Audiences will hear festive favorites such as “Christmastime Is Here,”“This Christmas,” and “Mary, Did You Know?” along with two brand-new Christmas singles—Danny Gokey’s “The Moment the Whole World Changed” and Natalie Grant’s “God’s Gift to Us.”
“Their powerful and incomparable voices, heartfelt performances, and joyful atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable experience.” – K-LOVE
The second half of the program will unveil the world premiere of One Day, a new musical work that tells the sweeping story of God’s redemption—from creation and prophecy to the Nativity and beyond. Composed and conducted by John Bolin and featuring The True North Choir and Orchestra, One Day combines sweeping musical moments with a moving narrative that invites renewed reflection on the meaning of Christmas.
Special guests include Amanda Jane Cooper (Wicked) as Mary, Carlos Santiago (The Voice) as Joseph, and Galen Fott as narrator.
Tye Tribbett continues to make history. The three-time GRAMMY winner has just received a 2026 GRAMMY Award nomination for Best Gospel Album for his powerful project, Only On The Road (Live).
The nomination comes as Tribbett is electrifying audiences across the country on his We Outside Tour, delivering high-energy performances that combine spirit, joy, and musical innovation. He also recently released his latest single, “Holy You (FrĒligious),” a reggae-infused anthem rooted in his commitment to spiritual renewal and authenticity.
The track is part of the FrĒligious movement, a concept Tribbett created to describe freedom from dysfunctional religious practices, cultural systems, and family dynamics that pull people away from their true identity. It encourages listeners to return to an authentic relationship with God and focus on discovering themselves in Him.
The project’s standout hit “Yahweh Flow” has already surpassed 5 million streams across all platforms, further cementing Tribbett’s global reach and influence.
Only On The Road (Live) captures the raw intensity, freedom, and joy of Tribbett’s live performances, affirming his reputation as one of gospel music’s most innovative and inspiring voices. This latest nomination follows his GRAMMY win for All Things New: Live In Orlando and his six Stellar Awards from last year, solidifying his place as a leader in contemporary gospel music.
ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, today announces the songwriters and publishers of Christian music’s most-performed songs of the past year. Top honors include:
Christian Music Songwriter of the Year: Brandon Lake
Christian Music Song of the Year: “Praise,” co-written by Brandon Lake and Pat Barrett
Christian Music Publisher of the Year: Essential Music Publishing
This is the second ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter of the Year honor for Brandon Lake, whose most-performed songs include “Praise,” “Hard Fought Hallelujah” and “That’s Who I Praise.” The five-time Grammy winner just received three nominations for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards: Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for “Hard Fought Hallelujah” (with Jelly Roll), Best CCM Performance/Song for “I Know a Name,” (Elevation Worship), and Best CCM Album for King of Hearts. Lake has also collected 15 Dove Awards, three Billboard Music Awards and is nominated for a CMA Musical Event of the Year honor (with Jelly Roll) for “Hard Fought Hallelujah” at the upcoming CMA Awards. In 2024, Lake was named ASCAP Christian Songwriter/Artist of the Year.
“Praise,” the ASCAP Christian Music Song of the Year, was co-written by Brandon Lake and Pat Barrett, published by Essential Music Publishing andCapitol CMG Publishing, and was recorded by Elevation Worship featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Brown and Chandler Moore.
“Praise” rose to the #1 slot on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs, Christian Airplay and Christian AC charts and has been certified double platinum.
The ASCAP Christian Music Publisher of the Year Award is presented to Essential Music Publishing. Their most-played songs of the past year are “Goodbye Yesterday,” “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” “Loves Got a Way,” “Praise,” “That’s Who I Praise,” “The Cross,” “The Prodigal,” “The Truth” and “Worship Through It.”
ASCAP’s winning Christian and Country music writers will be honored at the ASCAP Nashville Songwriters Celebration on Monday, November 17, in Nashville.
Drew & Ellie Holcomb’s new holiday EP, I’ll Be Home For Christmas, is out November 21. A warm and nostalgic collection, the EP reimagines timeless holiday classics through the Holcombs’ signature lens of intimacy, harmony, and heart.
I’ll Be Home For Christmas captures the spirit of togetherness that defines Drew and Ellie’s music. From the tender title track to their rendition of the Bing Crosby classic, to the playful rock ’n’ roll energy of “Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy,” the project reflects both the reverence and joy of the season.
“’I’ll Be Home For Christmas’ is a song that has floated through the air of nearly every Christmas morning memory I have. It’s often been Amy Grant’s version, so getting to record this warm and nostalgic song as a duet with my husband was an absolute delight,” shares Ellie. “I hope our version floats through your Christmas memories too, adding the warmth and light of home to your holiday season.”
Drew adds, “Over the years of writing and recording Christmas songs, we’ve always loved the full spectrum of holiday music. With ‘Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy,’ I love the lighthearted rock ’n’ roll energy — it captures that fun childhood moment of discovering the magic and mystery of Santa Claus.”
Based in Nashville, the Holcombs continue to balance their celebrated individual careers with their beloved work as a duo, blending family and community into a sound that’s distinctly their own.
The Recording Academy reveals the nominees for the 2026 GRAMMY Awards. CeCe Winans was one of the past winners invited to take part in announcing the nominations.
This year’s eligibility period includes recordings released between Aug. 31, 2024 – Aug. 30, 2025. The final round of GRAMMY voting, which will determine GRAMMY winners, will take place Dec. 12, 2025 – Jan. 5, 2026.
The GRAMMY Awards will return to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Sun, Feb. 1, 2026, and will broadcast live on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+* at 8-11:30 p.m. ET/5-8:30 p.m. PT. Prior to the Telecast, the GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony will be held at the Peacock Theater at 12:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on live.GRAMMY.com and the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel.
The 2026 GRAMMY Awards will be produced by Fulwell Entertainment for the Recording Academy. Ben Winston, Raj Kapoor and Jesse Collins are executive producers.
The following is a sampling of nominations from the GRAMMY Awards’ 12 Fields and 95 Categories.
CCM & Gospel Artists Honored With 2026 GRAMMY Awards Nominations
Stream & Enjoy
Best Gospel Performance/Song
This award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best traditional Christian, roots gospel or contemporary gospel single or track.
Do It Again Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, songwriter
Church Tasha Cobbs Leonard, John Legend; Anthony S. Brown, Brunes Charles, Annatoria Chitapa, Kenneth Leonard, Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Jonas Myrin, songwriters
Still Live Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts; Britney Delagraentiss, Jonathan McReynolds, David Lamar Outing III, Orlando Joel Palmer & Terrell Demetrius Wilson, songwriters
Amen Pastor Mike Jr.; Adia Andrews, Michael McClure Jr., David Lamar Outing II & Terrell Anthony Pettus, songwriters
Come Jesus Come Cece Winans Featuring Shirley Caesar
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
This award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best contemporary Christian music single or track, (including pop, rap/hip-hop, Latin, or rock.)
I Know A Name Elevation Worship, Chris Brown, Brandon Lake; Hank Bentley, Steven Furtick, Brandon Lake & Jacob Sooter, songwriters
YOUR WAY’S BETTER Forrest Frank; Forrest Frank & Pera, songwriters
Hard Fought Hallelujah Brandon Lake With Jelly Roll; Chris Brown, Jason Bradley Deford, Steven Furtick, Benjamin William Hastings & Brandon Lake, songwriters
Headphones Lecrae, Killer Mike, T.I.; Bongo ByTheWay, Clifford Harris, William Roderick Miller, Lecrae Moore, Michael Render & Tyshane Thompson, songwriters
For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, traditional or contemporary/R&B gospel music recordings.
Sunny Days Yolanda Adams
Tasha Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Live Breathe Fight Tamela Mann
Only On The Road Live Tye Tribbett
Heart Of Mine Darrel Walls, PJ Morton
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, contemporary Christian music, including pop, rap/hip hop, Latin, or rock recordings.
CHILD OF GOD II Forrest Frank
Coritos Vol. 1 Israel & New Breed
King Of Hearts Brandon Lake
Reconstruction Lecrae
Let The Church Sing Tauren Wells
Best Roots Gospel Album
For albums containing greater than 75% playing time of newly recorded, vocal, traditional/roots gospel music, including country, Southern gospel, bluegrass, and Americana recordings.
**I Will Not Be Moved (Live)** The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
Then Came The Morning Gaither Vocal Band
Praise & Worship: More Than A Hollow Hallelujah The Isaacs
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified Grammy-winning pop singer and rapper TobyMac with three Gold certifications and one Platinum certification.
The RIAA certifies songs and albums based on the number of copies it has shipped within the United States. A Gold certification denotes a song or album that has sold 500,000 copies, a Platinum certification denotes a song or album that has sold 1,000,000 copies, and a Diamond certification denotes a song or album that has sold 10,000,000 copies.
The three Gold certified songs include “Cornerstone”, featuring Zach Williams, “The Goodness”, featuring Blessing Offor, and “Backseat Driver”, featuring Hollyn and TobyMac’s son, Truett. “Love Broke Through” is now Platinum certified.
Including these four songs, TobyMac has received twenty-eight certifications by the RIAA. “Cornerstone” marks Williams’ ninth certified hit, and “The Goodness” marks Offor’s second certified hit. “Backseat Driver” is Hollyn’s second certified song.
GRAMMY Award-winning group Elevation Worship has received its ninth career GRAMMY nomination, announced today for the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards. The group is nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for their powerful track, “I Know A Name.”
The nominated song recently earned the 2025 GMA Dove Award for Worship Recorded Song of the Year, with the group delivering a memorable performance of the song during the televised broadcast.
In addition to the group’s nomination, Chris Brown and Steven Furtick received recognition as songwriters for their contributions to “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” which is also nominated in the Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song category. The GRAMMY Awards will return to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Sun, Feb. 1, 2026, and will broadcast live on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+
The Country Music Association and ABC have revealed this year’s hosts and performers for the 16th annual holiday television special, “CMA Country Christmas.” Hosted by Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis, “CMA Country Christmas” features performances by Daigle, Davis, Riley Green, Lady A,Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks and BeBe Winans.
Filmed in front of a live audience in Nashville, first-time co-hosts Daigle and Davis bring warmth, charm, and cheer to the stage as they guide viewers through a night of heartfelt music and holiday spirit. “CMA Country Christmas” airs Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 9/8c on ABC, with streaming available the next day on Hulu and Disney+.
“CMA Country Christmas” is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer, Milton Sneed is the Director and Jon Macks is the Writer.
