Christian pop singer-songwriter Josh Wright stepped back into the spotlight with a powerful release, LEAD, that draws faith, perseverance, and hope after navigating deep personal tragedy and a spiritual resurgence. Now, Wright is poised to release the deluxe version of the album with six additional tracks on October 10th.

“ LEAD (Deluxe) takes the album deeper—three new songs and three spoken stories that make this the most personal project I’ve ever released. It’s more than music, it’s the heart behind it,” explains Wright. The singles “The Fall” and “I’ll Take You There (Feat. Wendy Moten)” have already garnered features on EARMILK, The Word is Bond, Jesus Freak Hideout, The Christian Beat, CCM, and more.

Wright imparts, “This deluxe edition is structured almost like a road map: the introduction, the journey, and the invitation. It starts with God calling me to write this record, walks through the highs and lows of faith, and arrives at the greatest decision we can make—to follow Christ. That’s the heartbeat behind LEAD (Deluxe).

My hope for this release is simple—that no matter where you find yourself, at the beginning, the middle, or the end of your journey, there’s something on this album that meets you there. These songs and stories are mile markers, and I pray listeners find their own story inside them and take the next step with Christ.”

With over seven million streams, a successful debut radio single, and international worship leadership spanning the U.S. to Israel, Wright has already made a significant global impact. His collaborations include “Still Standing” featuring Stars Go Dim, and two acclaimed versions of “I’ll Take You There”—one with Wendy Moten and another with Mr. Talkbox, known for work with NSYNC, TobyMac, and Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic.”

Wright’s performance résumé includes sharing stages with Christian music greats like CeCe Winans, Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Riley Clemmons and Danny Gokey, as well as mainstream acts including Jelly Roll, Brooks & Dunn, and Walker Hayes.

A Top 20 male finalist on Season 12 of American Idol, Wright has performed the National Anthem for the Vice President of the United States at Nashville’s Curb Event Center, and was personally selected by Belmont Songwriting Faculty Chair to join Dolly Parton as a featured up-and-coming artist representing the future of Christian music for the grand opening of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Born on a small cattle farm in Celeste, Texas, Wright was first recognized for his voice at the age of two in his local church. Raised in a music-filled household where hymns and Southern Gospel classics echoed throughout the evenings, he overcame the absence of a formal music program in his hometown to pursue piano, voice, and songwriting. Wright went on to graduate valedictorian and earn a Bachelor of Music from Belmont University, where he studied songwriting and music business and was featured in seven prestigious university showcases.

Wright’s journey has not been without heartbreak. At 17, he lost his father to cancer just days into his senior year of high school. Years later, shortly after rising success on American Idol, tragedy struck again when his younger brother Jordan died in a car accident. Wright stepped away from music to heal and deepen his faith, attending Discipleship Ministry School in CeCe Winans’ living room, which later became his home church, Nashville Life Christian Church, where he now serves as a life group and worship team leader.

Wright’s recent accolades include finishing 2nd place in the 2022 International Songwriting Competition in the Christian category for “What You Could Do With Me”, sync placement for “Christmas Dream” on The Young and the Restless, and recognition as a top content creator for Recapture Livestream, the #1 TikTok agency in America.

Beyond music, Wright is also a successful entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of The Wright Group, a gold, platinum, and diamond award-winning residential real estate team based in Nashville, and served two years as the HOA President for his community. Additionally, Wright is a worship leader at Nashville Life Christian Church and a key voice in its mission to “Follow Jesus and Build Leaders.”

Now based in Brentwood, Tennessee, Wright continues to write, lead worship, and create with renewed passion. His life and music proclaim that joy is a choice, Jesus is the only answer, and God’s perfect love really does cast out all fear. With his eyes set on pleasing God and his feet firmly planted in faith, Wright believes the best is yet to come.

The power of gospel and the majesty of orchestral music unite in a historic new collaboration as the world-renowned London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) partners with Platoon to release SHOUT FOR JOY. This unprecedented new album brings gospel music together with an orchestra in a way never heard before — lifting hearts, stirring souls, and sharing communal joy through music.

The albums lead singles “Hallelujah, You’re Worthy” featuring Lurine Cato MBE and “Gloria” featuring Evvie McKinney are available now; with the full project releasing Friday, November 7th.

SHOUT FOR JOY reimagines gospel classics and contemporary compositions with symphonic textures, creating a vibrant sound world that celebrates joy, hope, and unity. The project highlights the spiritual resonance and cultural richness of gospel music while showcasing the versatility of the London Symphony Orchestra.

This bold new album takes gospel to the next level, uniting its unrestrained passion with the majestic sweep of the symphony orchestra. Dr. André J. Thomas leads an electrifying line-up: MOBO Award-winner Lurine Cato, Memphis powerhouse Evvie McKinney, acclaimed pianist Brandon A. Boyd, and the full-force of the Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir.

Recorded at the LSO’s own venue, the beautifully restored LSO St Luke’s, and produced by multi-Grammy-winner Jonathan Allen, the album soars from the jubilant energy of “Hallelujah, You’re Worthy” and “Sign Me Up” to the heartfelt devotion of “Total Praise” and “It’s Working”.

“This album is a true meeting of worlds,” shares André J. Thomas, conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra. “By combining the emotional depth of gospel with the timeless beauty of classical music, we’ve created something that speaks to the heart and spirit of every listener.”

“We wanted to honor gospel’s roots while introducing it to new audiences in a fresh, symphonic way. This album is about joy, hope, and the universal power of music to uplift,” shares A&R at Platoon Music, Kunmi Ogunsola.

A genre leader in educational resources, training, and career mentorship for both burgeoning and established songwriters and artists, Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) announces the launch of its new label imprint, NCS Records, with the exclusive signing of American Idol Season 14 runner-up Clark Beckham. An acclaimed singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his impressive range and stylistic diversity, Beckham’s NCS Records debut single is slated for release later this fall.

In addition to making NCS Records his label home, Beckham joins the organization’s staff as a coach and mentor. A seasoned voice and music theory instructor as well as a veteran worship leader, Beckham’s breadth of experience stands to further bolster NCS’ already sought-after training program.

“I’m excited to partner with Clark and his artistry,” says John Chisum, NCS founder and president. “His vocals are off the chart and his heart for God and ministry is too. It’s rare to find a stellar vocal talent like Clark, but I fell in love with his desire to teach others how to step into their calling as songwriters and artists. His experience on American Idol and his years coaching artists and writers are perfect fits for our mission at NCS. We’re anticipating a great new season together!”

“What drew me to NCS is how passionate they are about helping Christian artists,” Beckham says. “We both believe that high quality music coming from high quality hearts changes the world. That’s why when it comes to me and NCS, it’s hand in glove. They teach, coach, make great music, and they want to take over the world for Jesus.”

“Signing with NCS Records is both an honor and a responsibility that I cherish,” he continues. “Not only do I see it as an opportunity to help define what this new chapter for NCS looks like, but they’ve looked me in the eye and said, ‘We believe in you.’ That makes me want to run through a wall. And figuratively, I intend to.”

The Gospel Music Association (GMA) has announced the final round of performers and presenters for the 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards.

Performers include Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll, a special Opry 100 performance from Opry Members Lady A, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Vince Gill, and a multi-artist Latin performance from Israel & New Breed and Unified Sound that includes Aaron Moses, Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Alex Campos, Christine D’Clario, Ingrid Rosario, Janina Rosado, Josh and Waleska Morales from Miel San Marcos, Lucia Parker, and Nate Diaz. 

Presenters include Aspen Kennedy, Karen Peck, Lee Vasi, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and Sonya Isaacs with Special Appearances by Colton Dixon, Joel Courtney, and John O’Leary.

Previously announced performers include CeCe Winans, Christine D’Clario, ELEVATION RHYTHM, Elevation Worship, for KING + COUNTRY, Fred Hammond feat. The Choir Room, Gaither Vocal Band, Israel & New Breed and Unified Sound, Josiah Queen, Lauren Daigle, Leanna Crawford, Lecrae, Tamela Mann, and Tauren Wells feat. gio.. Presenters include Bart Millard, bodie, Candace Cameron Bure, Chris Tomlin, Crowder, David Mann, DOE, Jackie Hill Perry,  Jason Crabb, John Crist, Milo Ventimiglia, Naomi Raine, Natalie Grant, Pastor Mike Jr., Patricia Heaton, and Sadie Robertson Huff.

The 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards, presented in partnership with the Cantinas Arts Foundation, will be held October 7th, 2025, at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The broadcast will air exclusively on TBN and the TBN+ app Friday, October 10th, 2025, at 7:30pm and 10pm ET and will be simulcast on SiriusXM The Message. An encore presentation will air on TBN and the TBN+ app Friday, October 17th, at 7:30pm and 10pm ET.

Prior to the 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards broadcast, viewers can watch the official red-carpet coverage, TBN’s Red Carpet Hosted by Kristin Adams, on Friday, October 10, 2025, exclusively on the TBN+ app and TBN YouTube.

The 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards are produced by the Gospel Music Association. Jackie Patillo and Justin Fratt serve as showrunners and executive producers, Curtis Stoneberger and Paul Wright as producers, and JoAnna Illingworth and Shama Mrema as scriptwriters. Russell E. Hall returns as director and Scott Moore and Go Live Productions as production manager.

Holly Brand will release her debut single, “One Thing He Wouldn’t Do,” on October 10th. This song offers a great taste of what is to come from this songstress, who aims to reach the listener who thinks they are too far gone to be saved.

“I’ve known people who believed they were too far gone for God’s love—and at times, I was one of them,” shares Holly Brand. “But the truth of the gospel is that Jesus saw every choice we’d ever make and still chose the cross, proving that there is no such thing as too far gone and that He would do anything for us. My hope is that everyone who hears this song knows they have a place at the table and that God will never stop pursuing them.”

Music has been part of Holly Brand’s life from the very beginning. Growing up as the daughter of a music minister, she first found her voice in her small country church. When she was just 10 years old, the Mississippi native opened for country superstar Blake Shelton—an experience that confirmed her calling to share songs that connect faith and real life.

Today, Brand combines her Southern roots with heartfelt, faith-filled lyrics as she steps into a new chapter with Integrity Music. With Platform Artists guiding her booking and being managed by Josh Petersen of Music City Management, she’s preparing to release new music this fall.

“Holly Brand’s debut single captures exactly who she is: faith-filled and carried by a voice as powerful as it is sincere,” states Taylor Brady, Integrity Music, A&R Director. “Raised on country music, she developed a gift for storytelling that reflects her faith and points people toward Jesus. This song offers the first glimpse of the impact Holly is poised to make, and I believe listeners will be deeply moved as they begin to discover her artistry. It’s a beautiful beginning to the journey Holly is inviting us all into.”

Concertgoers can catch Holly on the dates listed below this fall.

• Oct. 4 – The Railyard on 66, Springfield, IL
• Oct. 6 – Redbird Common, Nashville, TN
• Oct. 18 – Bourbon Gospel, Columbia, TN
• Oct. 25 – Just Love Cafe, Spring Hill, TN
• Dec. 13 – Roy Chapman Sportsplex, Millry, AL

Breakout Christian artists Forrest Frank and Josiah Queen appear to be set to join forces on “Jesus Is Coming Back Soon”, a new single slated to arrive on October 3, 2025. Frank recently teased the song and a mystery collaborator on TikTok, and listeners immediately identified Josiah Queen’s signature vocals on this highly anticipated song.

Frank introduced the song as a response to the recent assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk.  Since its first tease on September 16, the song has accumulated over seven million views across digital social media platforms.

Forrest Frank and Josiah Queen first worked together on Frank’s “In the Room” which Queen co-wrote allongside Pera Krstajić.  However, “Jesus Is Coming Back Soon” will be the first time both Frank’s and Queen’s vocals are featured together.

On Tuesday, September 16th, Gaither Productions brought more than 270 artists for a landmark taping, marking one of the largest gatherings in Gaither’s history. This event brought together acclaimed and rising talent from across the  Christian music and country genre in a celebration of faith, designed to showcase both the legacy and future of gospel music. 

Hosted by gospel icons Bill and Gloria Gaither, the all-day production featured top talent in  the Gospel, Country, and Christian music industry and included names like Tasha Cobbs Leonard, The Gaither Vocal Band, The Oak Ridge Boys, Rhonda Vincent, David Phelps, Jordan Smith, Chris Blue, Mark Wills, Lynda Randle, Mark Lowry, The Isaacs, and Jason  Crabb, and other veteran and emerging talents from across music genres.

Filmed at TBN  studios in Hendersonville, TN, this yet-to-be-titled Homecoming taping will premiere in 2026  on television, digital platforms, DVD, and streaming on Gaither TV+. Among the music highlights was an acapella rendition of “Amazing Grace,” led by Sonya Isaacs. In memory of  the late Squire Parsons, son Sam Parsons and the Homecoming group sang “Sweet Beulah  Land.” 

“To see over 270 artists, from pioneers to new voices, stand shoulder to shoulder in worship was overwhelming,” says Bill Gaither about the event. “We’re not just passing the  torch; we’re carrying it together.”

In a standout moment, Chris Blue, Jason Crabb, and Angie Primm led the audience through an incredible version of “I Go to the Rock,” and a special spoken-word segment by Bill  Gaither. The Crabb Family also shared the stage in a rare and powerful reunion, delivering performances that embodied their legacy.  

In addition to longtime Homecoming favorites, the taping included several new arrangements, first time collaborations, and special acoustic moments.  

This untitled Gaither Homecoming special will be released as an audio, DVD, and television special in 2026 across all streaming platforms, Gaither TV Plus, and TV networks.

Singer, songwriter, producer, and pastor AG Gatling returns with new music on his latest single,  “Spiritual Vibe” featuring Stellar Award winner Earnest Pugh. The song is available on all major digital platforms at midnight, September 26.

“Spiritual Vibe” was written by Gatling and his brother Christopher Larome Gatling. The track was produced by his READYAVE Productions team. The song immediately asks a thought provoking question, “Do you remember when we prayed all night? Do you remember we didn’t mind living right? That vibe, (that vibe),…that spiritual vibe.” The song reflects on how the saints used to praise the Lord and seek His face. Serving as a reminder that the closer we get to the coming of our Lord, the more we need to be in His presence.

Gatling, known for his soul-stirring melodies, joined forces with “Gospel’s Leading Man” Stellar Award winner Earnest Pugh on this track. Pugh’s smooth delivery further drives the message home, to never forget how we were when we saw breakthrough from prayer and consecration. The song feels both soulful and effortless in its presentation. The track’s urban contemporary flow blends heartfelt harmonies over synth sounds and melodic beats taking listeners on a journey of reflection.

Gatling anchors the song in a biblical theme explaining that like in the book of Acts 2:1-4, “there was something about the vibe when they were in the upper room.” The scripture describes a powerful and miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, which Gatling says, reflects his willingness “to give God everything I can to make Him magnified…in other words make Him large.”

This song honors how the saints of old praised the Lord, by having prayer services, all night shut-ins and consecrating themselves. “It’s a vibe, a spiritual vibe.”

Critically-acclaimed bluegrass gospel group Chosen Road is proud to announce the release of their stirring new single, “Daddy Was a Navy Man”, in celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the United States Navy.

Written by legendary songwriters Larry Cordle and Larry Shell, the song honors the courage, sacrifice, and devotion of generations of sailors who have defended America’s freedom. With heartfelt lyrics and the band’s signature Appalachian-rooted harmonies, “Daddy Was a Navy Man,” is both a personal tribute and a timeless anthem of national pride.

“At Chosen Road, our music has always been rooted in stories of faith, family, and heritage. ‘Daddy Was a Navy Man’ is one of those powerful stories,” shares Jonathan Buckner of Chosen Road. “Written by award-winning tunesmiths, it captures the spirit of a generation who stepped forward with courage, often as young men barely out of high school, to defend freedom in some of the darkest days of our nation’s history. These are the stories that shaped families, communities, and the very character of America itself.

“As the United States Navy celebrates its 250th anniversary, we count it an honor to release this song as a tribute to the sailors who have stood watch across the centuries. Our prayer is that this song not only honors their legacy, but also reminds all of us of the immense cost of the liberties we hold dear—and of the responsibility we share to protect and cherish those freedoms for generations to come,” he continued.

The release of “Daddy Was a Navy Man” comes at a historic moment, as Americans join together in gratitude for the Navy’s service and enduring impact since its founding in 1775. Chosen Road’s heartfelt tribute captures both the spirit of the anniversary celebration and the eternal values of duty, sacrifice, and freedom.

Five-time GMA Dove Awards Female Vocalist of the Year Natalie Grant has signed to Capitol CMG, marking an exciting new chapter in her career.

Along with the signing news, Grant also announced her new holiday album Christmas, is set for release Oct. 3, arriving nearly 20 years after her beloved debut Christmas album Believe. Christmas brings new light to beloved classics like“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and the Ella Fitzgerald-inspired swing of “Jingle Bells,” and also introduces two originals: the sweeping, six-minute ballad “God’s Gift” and the playful “Christmas Looks Good on You,” inspired by family traditions.

The project was recorded alongside Grant’s husband and longtime collaborator, Grammy-winning composer/producer Bernie Herms.

“It’s been 20 years since my last Christmas album, and making another one has been a dream in my heart for so long,” says Grant. “Christmas is my favorite time of year, and I set out to create something timeless – full of nostalgia, warmth, and a few new songs that could stand beside the classics. I’m beyond excited to be partnering with Capitol CMG for the first time.

Their passion and vision for this project made them the perfect home and the timing couldn’t be better. This is a partnership that just makes sense on so many levels, and I’m truly excited about what the future holds together.”