Category: NEWS

Israel & New Breed Receives Eighth GRAMMY Nomination

Gospel music artist Israel Houghton with Israel & New Breed has been nominated for his eighth GRAMMY Award. This time for his groundbreaking Latin Worship album Coritos Vol. 1 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.

The Recording Academy has officially released the full list of nominees for the 2026 GRAMMYS, marking the start of this year’s GRAMMY season and setting the stage for Music’s Biggest Night.

This historic nomination stands as the first time a Spanish-language album has been recognized in this category, representing a significant milestone for the Latin Christian genre and its growing influence across the globe.

“Every time our name has been called we’ve been shocked, amazed, and grateful. Today is something completely different. In the face of upheaval in our nation, I find it wildly poetic that God would use something like this project to be the first ever Spanish language record in this category. To Him be the Glory”, Israel shares.

Further amplifying this achievement, the album’s additional Latin GRAMMY nomination showcases Coritos Vol. 1 as a bridge between musical traditions and a testament to the universal language of music.

“I am grateful for the culture that raised me and my wife. Grateful that our child will always have this music in his story and his life,” the artist adds.

Coritos Vol. 1 reflects a beautiful sense of collaboration and unity with artists from the US, Puerto Rico, Mexico, El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and Ecuador. The project highlights the shared passion of every participant, including Aaron Moses, Nate Diaz, Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Lucia Parker, Miel San Marcos, Marcos Witt, Evan Craft, Unified Sound, Janina Rosado, Freddy Bailon, Claudette Bailon, Juan De La Cruz, and Coalo Zamorano.

“So many people have made this record stand up and out. Our entire team of amazing guests, producers, engineers, singers, artists, musicians, videographers, social media, and volunteers coming together with a passion to create something bigger than us. This is truly that. And we are so thankful to be considered for this amazing honor among my friends and fellow good-news-givers”.

The 2026 GRAMMYS will take place on Sunday, February 1, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, broadcasting live on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+.

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Tasha Cobbs Leonard Earns Two GRAMMY Nominations

Congratulations to 3x GRAMMY-winning “gospel star” (NYT) Tasha Cobbs Leonard who today celebrates two nominations for 2026 GRAMMY Awards –– also marking her 11th career nomination:

Best Gospel Album for her critically acclaimed studio debut TASHA (Motown Gospel)

Best Gospel Performance/Song for the powerful duet “Church” featuring John Legend

“This project means so much to me,” says Cobbs Leonard. “‘Church’ with John was a sacred, vulnerable moment for both of us, and I’m overwhelmed by the love it’s received. I’m so thankful to the Recording Academy and everyone who’s connected with this album.”

Released this summer, TASHA marks a landmark in Cobbs Leonard’s career — her first-ever studio album, following more than a decade of live recordings.

Produced by her longtime collaborator and husband Kenneth Leonard Jr., the project weaves gospel, R&B, hip-hop, pop, and even bluegrass into a deeply personal and artistically daring body of work. The album has earned widespread critical acclaim, praised by The New York Times, Billboard, People, Essence, and more. 

“Tasha is one of the most important artists in contemporary music,” says Brad O’Donnell, President, Capitol Christian Music Group. “Her willingness to take risks and her vocal mastery continue to set new standards across genres. We’re thrilled to celebrate these GRAMMY nominations alongside her, as she marks yet another milestone in a truly remarkable career.”

The project features collaborations with John Legend, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, and debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums, with lead single “Do It Anyway” topping both the Billboard Gospel Airplay and Mediabase Gospel charts. “Church” is currently Top 10 (#7) on the Billboard Gospel Airplay chart as well.

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Capitol Christian Music Group Celebrates 17 GRAMMY Award Nominations

Capitol Christian Music Group (CCMG) announces 17 total nominations for the 2026 GRAMMY Awards, celebrating honorees in fivecategories. Nominees represent Capitol CMG entities including CCMG Label Group, Motown Gospel & Re:Think and CCMG Publishing. The 2026 GRAMMY Awards will be held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS and available for streaming on Paramount+.

“We are celebrating today’s GRAMMY nominations with our artists, songwriters and partners,” says Capitol Christian Music Group President Brad O’Donnell. “Their passion and excellence are an inspiration to us. We’re honored to work alongside each of them and grateful to be a part of what they do.”

Capitol Christian Music Group 2026 GRAMMY nominations:

Category 53 – Gospel Performance/Song
“Amen”
Pastor Mike Jr.
Label Group & Publishing

Category 53 – Gospel Performance/Song
“Do It Again”
Kirk Franklin
Publishing

Category 53 – Gospel Performance/Song
“Still (Live)”
Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts
Label Group & Publishing

Category 53 – Gospel Performance/Song
“Church”
Tasha Cobbs Leonard, John Legend
Label Group & Publishing

Category 54 – Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
“I Know A Name”
Elevation Worship
Publishing

Category 54 – Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
“Hard Fought Hallelujah”
Brandon Lake, Jelly Roll
Publishing

Category 55 – Gospel Album
TASHA
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Label Group & Publishing

Category 55 – Gospel Album
Only On The Road (Live)
Tye Tribbett
Label Group

Category 56 – Contemporary Christian Music Album
Let The Church Sing
Tauren Wells
Label Group & Publishing

Category 57 – Best Roots Gospel Album
Praise & Worship: More Than A Hollow Hallelujah
The Isaacs
Commercial Partnerships

Category 57 – Best Roots Gospel Album
Then Came The Morning
Gaither Vocal Band
Publishing & Commercial Partnerships

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Elevation Rhythm Announces Goodbye Yesterday Tour Part 2

This year, ELEVATION RHYTHM has fully embraced touring with their debut headline tour, The Goodbye Yesterday Tour. Additionally, they have participated in a sold-out tour with Forrest Frank, which drew over 215,000 attendees. They were also featured on the Elevation Nights tour, with more than 86,000 in attendance this fall alone.

Furthermore, they have performed at this year’s K-LOVE Fan Awards and Dove Awards. ELEVATION RHYTHM will hit the road for the second leg of their headlining tour, The Goodbye Yesterday Tour, which will kick off in January 2026.

Inspired by their latest album, Victory Lap, this tour represents a season of music filled with hope. Victory Lap includes songs like “GOODBYE YESTERDAY” and “At the Altar,” capturing the essence of what it means to run with Jesus. Most of the album was recorded live in one take, and that same energy will come alive on stage. Their latest single, “WASHED,” has already made an impact, with over one million streams in its first week, and more new music is expected in 2026.

The Goodbye Yesterday Tour, Part 2, will head to the West Coast and feature special guests Strings and Heart. It promises to be more than a typical concert: a night to sing loudly, dance freely, and worship together. Pre-sale for the tour starts tomorrow and runs through November 7th, with all tickets going on sale November 10th.

January 20, 2026 – Denver, CO

January 22, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA

January 23, 2026 – San Diego, CA

January 24, 2026 – San Francisco, CA

January 26, 2026 – Seattle, WA

January 29, 2026 – Sacramento, CA

January 31, 2026 – Las Vegas, NV

February 2, 2026 – Phoenix, AZ

February 4, 2026 – Austin, TX

February 5, 2026 – New Orleans, LA

February 6, 2026 – Atlanta, GA

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Nashville Christian Songwriters Celebrates 10th Anniversary Amidst Banner Year

Established in 2015 by veteran music industry executive John Chisum to help meet the unique needs of aspiring artists and writers, Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) celebrates a decade of music and ministry this year. Flourishing today as a multifaceted organization with worldwide reach, NCS boasts one of Christian music’s premier training and coaching programs, a bespoke record label, and other signature services.

NCS’s 10th anniversary comes amidst its most successful year to date, which has included the launch of NCS Records and key artist signings; the addition of multiple staff; and the strategic expansion of NCS’s renowned coaching program. “Seeing NCS thrive at the 10-year mark is monumental to me,” Chisum states.

“Its growth as a full-service coaching and resource company with a global impact has taken me on an unexpected God-kind of journey that is truly miraculous, and a testimony to the fact that He brings beauty from the ashes if we keep surrendering them to Him.”

The organization’s newly minted label, NCS Records (distributed by NRT Music), has quickly amassed a stable of leading artists, including American Idol Season 14 runner-up Clark Beckham, award-winning singer/songwriter John Chisum, and lauded indie-rockers Eauclaire. Most recently, the label welcomed Alabama-based worship leader and singer/songwriter Justin Barnett. He is featured on the new NCS Collective single “Your Kingdom,” now available on streaming platforms.

ncs

Bolstering NCS for continued multifaceted growth, Chisum announces the elevation of longtime staffer Bryant Urich to vice president of production and A&R, as well as the addition of Claire Bacon as project and publishing manager, A&R; Kyle Kicker as studio operations manager; and Jack Landess as audio and visual content manager.

“We’ve served writers as young as 15 years old as well as writers in their 80s and watched them fulfill their dreams of bringing great songs to life—something they thought impossible,” Chisum adds. “As we’ve assembled a team of world-class staffers and coaches, it’s been my privilege to download 43 years of industry and ministry experience into them. It feels like we’re riding a wave together as we serve our clients and get to work with marquee artists like Clark Beckham. I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years bring!”

The centerpiece of NCS continues to be its industry-leading portfolio of training resources encompassing workshops, coaching, mentorship, and guest presentations from veteran artists and music business professionals. The company’s latest course, “Songwriting From Scratch,” released earlier this fall and is taught by NCS Records singer/songwriter Clark Beckham, who brings years of expertise as a performer, songwriter, worship leader, and voice and music theory instructor.

Nashville Christian Songwriters Celebrates 10th Anniversary Amidst Banner Year

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Winter Jam Announces 2026 Tour Artists & Routing

The Winter Jam 2026 Tour, founded and produced by Newsong and promoted in partnership with TPR., returns to arenas nationwide this winter with an all-star lineup and a renewed mission to unite fans through powerful music. Known as Christian music’s largest annual tour, Winter Jam 2026 will feature performances by Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day, and Newsong, along with speaker Zane Black.

The tour launches January 9th in Columbia, SC at the Colonial Life Arena and will visit 40 cities across the U.S., including Tampa, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Nashville, Birmingham, Louisville, Grand Rapids, Oklahoma City, Des Moines, Cleveland, State College, and many more.

Fans can arrive early for the Pre-Jam Party, featuring Jeremy Rosado, Heath Brothers, & Cliff Preston.

“We are in a moment in our country… one of revival and awakening that is being sparked by young people. Each night of Winter Jam is an opportunity to experience how God is continuing to move and use this generation,” shared Tomlin. “Let’s come together as the people of God, singing the praises of God, in the presence of God.”

Known for its “no ticket required” approach, Winter Jam continues its long-standing tradition of affordability and accessibility, with admission only a $15 donation at the door. Fans can also join Jam Nation for free and early admission, exclusive merchandise, and opportunities to connect directly with artists during select Q&A sessions.

Since its founding more than 30 years ago, Winter Jam has grown into one of the most influential tours in Christian music, consistently ranking among Pollstar’s Top 100 Tours and drawing hundreds of thousands of fans each year. The tour’s unique model—no tickets, one affordable donation—reflects its heart for accessibility and ministry.

Fans can find full tour information, city-specific details, and Jam Nation registration at jamtour.com

WINTER JAM 2026 TOUR DATES

January 9, 2026 | Columbia, SC

January 10, 2026 | Tampa, FL

January 11, 2026 | Jacksonville, FL

January 16, 2026 | North Little Rock, AR

January 17, 2026 | St. Louis, MO

January 18, 2026 | Atlanta, GA^

January 23, 2026 | Charleston, WV^

January 24, 2026 | Columbus, OH

January 25, 2026 | Charlotte, NC

January 30, 2026 | Wichita, KS*

January 31, 2026 | Kansas City, MO*

February 1, 2026 | Grand Prairie, TX

February 5, 2026 | Evansville, IN

February 6, 2026 | Indianapolis, IN

February 7, 2026 | Knoxville, TN

February 12, 2026 | Peoria, IL

February 13, 2026 | Nashville, TN*

February 14, 2026 | Greensboro, NC

February 15, 2026 | Birmingham, AL

February 20, 2026 | Greenville, SC

February 21, 2026 | Cincinnati, OH

February 22, 2026 | Tulsa, OK

February 26, 2026 | Reading, PA

February 27, 2026 | Raleigh, NC

February 28, 2026 | Pittsburgh, PA

March 1, 2026 | Norfolk, VA

March 6, 2026 | Tupelo, MS

March 7, 2026 | Louisville, KY*

March 8, 2026 | Grand Rapids, MI*

March 12, 2026 | Baton Rouge, LA

March 13, 2026 | Southaven, MS

March 14, 2026 | Oklahoma City, OK

March 15, 2026 | Des Moines, IA

March 20, 2026 | Springfield, MO

March 21, 2026 | Bossier City, LA

March 22, 2026 | Mobile, AL

March 26, 2026 | Fort Wayne, IN

March 27, 2026 | Cleveland, OH

March 28, 2026 | State College, PA

March 29, 2026 | Ypsilanti, MI

^Hulvey not appearing

*Chris Tomlin not appearing

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GRAMMY Award-Winning Songwriter Kellie Besch Signs Publishing Deal With Integrity Music

Integrity Music announced today the signing of a music publishing deal with Kellie Besch, a GRAMMY, Billboard, Stellar, and ASCAP Award-winning songwriter.

Best known for co-writing “That’s My King,” recorded and performed by CeCe Winans, Besch’s background as a classically trained pianist and worship leader across various denominational settings has equipped her with the unique ability to find common ground with an array of faith-focused artists and writers.

Besch’s credits include collaborations with Aaron Williams, Matt Redman, River Valley Worship, River Valley AGES, Bridge Worship, and others.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Kellie Besch to our dynamic and expanding roster of visionary songwriters who are defining the contemporary sound of the Church,” said Stone Meyer, Vice President of Publishing at Integrity Music. “Her extensive experience and proven track record of successful collaborations with leading artists position her as one of the most versatile and promising talents in our genre.”

“I grew up on songs like ‘Shout to the Lord’ and ‘Ancient of Days,’” shared Kellie Besch. “So to now be a part of the legacy that helped shape me is such an honor. I’m excited to partner with people who care so deeply about serving the Church well.”

Founded in 1987, Integrity Music is a record label and song publishing company that creates, produces, and distributes music that magnifies the name of Jesus Christ worldwide. Integrity Music works with artists and worship leaders like Matt Redman, Israel Houghton, Paul Baloche, Holly Brand, Alexander Pappas and more.

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Elevation Nights Tour Returns For Its Fifth Year In 2026

Following the tremendous response to the Elevation Nights Tour, the memorable nights of worship and message will return in 2026 for its fifth year. The Elevation Nights Tour features Elevation Worship, Steven Furtick, and ELEVATION RHYTHM, kicking off on February 24, 2026.

Elevation Nights has traveled across North America, including dates in Canada, creating unforgettable experiences in each city. This tour has become one of the most extensive Christian tours in history. It has set records for the largest Christian events at arenas in several cities, including Toronto and Pittsburgh.

Each night of the tour, Pastor Steven Furtick delivers an impactful message while Elevation Worship leads powerful worship anthems. Some of the featured songs include “Praise,” “Graves Into Gardens,” “Jesus Be The Name,” “Same God,” “Trust In God,” 2025’s GMA Dove Award Worship Recorded Song of the Year, “I Know A Name.” 

Additionally, ELEVATION RHYTHM kicks off the evening with upbeat songs like “GOODBYE YESTERDAY” and other hits from their latest album, Victory Lap, as well as the group’s new song “WASHED.” See the complete list of the 2026 Spring Elevation Nights Tour dates below.

February 24, 2026 – Hershey, PA

February 25, 2026 – Brooklyn, NY

February 27, 2026 – Indianapolis, IN

February 28, 2026 – Milwaukee, WI

March 01, 2026 – Grand Rapids, MI

March 03, 2026 – Knoxville, TN

March 04, 2026 – Columbus, OH

March 05, 2026 – Rosemont, IL

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Charles Billingsley Announces New Christmas Single & Tour

Charles Billingsley has just released the new holiday single, “Truly Home” (StowTown Records/Sony/Provident) – just in time for the Christmas season and his 14-city Christmas tour which stops at such esteemed stages as Carnegie Hall, Liberty University and the Kennedy Center. Inspired by the loss of his mother.

“Truly Home” is a prolific song with universal resonance, as it tenderly tackles the subject of grief during Christmastime. Every holiday is bittersweet due to the absence of loved ones, but this song is a lovely reminder that those we miss are with the One the season is about. ​

Says Billingsley: “The holiday season is full of so much joy and laughter! But, for many it can also be a time of sadness…especially for those who have recently lost a loved one. I, too, have experienced the fullness of that joy, but also the weight of that sadness. I pray that this song I wrote for my mom will encourage and bless you this Thanksgiving and Christmas season. My prayer is that it will remind you of the eternal home and the everlasting hope we have as children of God.”

Charles Billingsley Announces New Christmas Single & Tour

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The new single was produced by Billingsley’s longtime music director Adam Lancaster and Scotty Wilbanks, a GRAMMY-nominated and Dove Award-winning producer and the keyboard player for Luke Bryan and Third Day. The song was written by Billingsley, Lancaster, Wilbanks, and Tony Wood.

On the Christian music scene since the early 90s, Billingsley is a multi-Dove Award nominee who began his career with GRAMMY nominated genre giants NewSong. Recognized internationally as a CCM artist, songwriter and worship leader, Billingsley is known for his uplifting pop-influenced sound.

Beloved worship leader for “Women of Joy,” “Gridiron” and “Celebrators” conferences (all nationwide tours) and for his tenure leading worship at Thomas Road Baptist Church and Shadow Mountain Church, he continues to blaze a trail in the Christian music industry.

TOUR DATES:

NOV 1 — Harp’s Crossing Baptist Church — Fayetteville, GA Tickets

NOV 2 — Harp’s Crossing Baptist Church — Fayetteville, GA

NOV 6 — Brewton Parker Christian University — Mt Vernon, GA Tickets

NOV 21 — Trinity Church of New Cumberland — New Cumberland, PA Tickets

NOV 24 — Carnegie Hall — New York, NY Tickets

NOV 30 — Grove Avenue Baptist Church — Richmond, VA

DEC 3 — Pleasant Hill Baptist Church — Columbus, MS

DEC 4 — Woodland Hills Family — Branson, MO

DEC 5 — Easthaven Baptist Church — Brookhaven, MS

DEC 7 — Prestonwood Baptist North Campus — Prosper, TX

DEC 7 — First Baptist Church — Texarkana, TX

DEC 12 — Virginia Christmas Spectacular — Lynchburg, VA Tickets

DEC 13 — Virginia Christmas Spectacular — Lynchburg, VA Tickets

DEC 14 — Virginia Christmas Spectacular — Lynchburg, VA Tickets

DEC 15 — Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church — Baker, FL

DEC 16 — Thalia Lynn Baptist — Virginia Beach, VA Tickets

DEC 17 — The Kennedy Center — Washington, DC

DEC 19 — Liberty University School of Music Concert Hall — Lynchburg, VA Tickets

DEC 20 — Robinson Fine Arts Center — Plano, TX Tickets

DEC 21 — Prestonwood Baptist North Campus — Plano, TX

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Red Street Records Inks Danny Gokey

3X GRAMMY-nominated, 2X Dove Award-winning and 3X KLOVE Fan Awards Male Vocalist of the Year Danny Gokey joined Red Street Records as the label’s newest recording artist.

With five #1-charted Christian radio singles, five #1 album debuts on the Billboard Top Christian Chart and over 1B career streams, Gokey’s first release under the Red Street partnership will be his upcoming original Christmas song, “The Moment The Whole World Changed,” out November 7th.

Danny Gokey shares, “I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter. After years in this industry, I’ve learned that it’s about partnering with people who truly believe in your vision and are invested in the journey. Jay Demarcus, Jason McArthur and the team at Red Street get what I’m trying to do musically and in ministry, and having that focused support means everything.

I’ve always believed that music is more than entertainment; it’s about reaching people with hope and encouragement when they need it most. This isn’t just about making music; it’s about making music that matters and reaching people in a deeper way. I can’t wait to see what we build together.”

Led by Founder and CEO Jay DeMarcus alongside General Manager Alex Valentine and newly appointed VP of A&R/Publishing Christian Jason McArthur, Red Street Records is eager to continue to elevate Gokey’s powerhouse presence in the Christian music space. Gokey is joined by a stout roster of label mates, including multi-platinum Country star Chris Lane, GRAMMY Award-winner Jason Crabb, chart-topping CCM group Consumed By Fire, and rising stars Taylor Austin Dye and Cade Thompson, among others.

Red Street Records Inks Danny Gokey

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“Danny and I have been friends for many years,” shares DeMarcus. “I’ve enjoyed watching him take his career to new levels, and I’m beyond thrilled to be his partner in what I’m sure is going to be his best chapter yet. Danny is one of the greatest singers, not only in the Christian format, but in any genre, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear the music he’s been working on. This is a big day for Red Street!”

McArthur shares, “We couldn’t be more excited to have Danny Gokey join our Red Street label family! I personally have been wanting to work with him for many years, so this is such a full-circle moment. Partnering with Danny is a privilege, and we are looking forward to helping bring his music, artistry, passion, and message to even more people in the days ahead as he enters this new chapter of his career.”

No stranger to the live stage, Danny Gokey is wrapping up his twenty-city The Ignite Tour with Mac Powell and Colton Dixon while gearing up to join GMA Female Vocalist of the Year Natalie Grant for the 10th anniversary of their co-headlining Celebrate Christmas Tour. The tour, packed with reimagined holiday favorites and powerful worship-filled moments, kicks off November 22nd in New York City at Carnegie Hall. To see Gokey LIVE in a city near you, visit dannygokey.com/tour.

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