This summer, the Gaither Vocal Band proudly celebrates a major milestone as tenor Wes Hampton marks 20 years as a vital member of the beloved gospel group. Since joining the group in July 2005, Wes Hampton has become an essential part of the Vocal Band’s rich legacy, bringing his unmistakable voice, deep faith, and genuine warmth to audiences around the world.

Over the past two decades, Wes Hampton has helped lead the Gaither Vocal Band to some of its most celebrated moments. The group earned a Grammy Award in 2009 for the album Lovin’ Life and received multiple additional Grammy nominations during Hampton’s tenure, including nods for Give It Away, That’s Gospel, Brother, and their recent 2023 release Shine: The Darker the Night the Brighter the Light.

Their powerful harmonies and message-driven music have also garnered numerous GMA Dove Awards, including wins for albums such as Greatly Blessed, Reunited, and Pure and Simple, as well as for standout songs like “Better Together.”

In addition to critical acclaim, the group’s albums have frequently topped the charts. Their 2015 Christmas Collection debuted at No. 1 on Southern Gospel charts, and 2016’s Better Together climbed to No. 9 on the CCM chart while reaching No. 1 in Southern Gospel. The Gaither Vocal Band has performed in some of the world’s most iconic venues and events—including at the Billy Graham Memorial in 2018, a moment watched by millions and attended by multiple U.S. Presidents.

Throughout these years, Wes Hampton has also been a featured voice in countless Gaither Homecoming concerts and specials, appearing regularly on national broadcasts and Gaither Music TV. His vibrant stage presence and smooth, soaring tenor have made him a fan favorite.

Beyond his work with the Gaither Vocal Band, Wes Hampton has pursued a successful solo career, releasing four solo albums—A Man Like Me (2011), Out on a Limb (2014), Wes Hampton Hymns (2019), and Stubborn Hope (2022). He is also the author of several well-received cookbooks, combining his love of music and hospitality.

Reflecting on the milestone, Wes Hampton shared, “These last two decades have been a journey of heart, harmony, and home. To sing tenor with this remarkable ensemble—under Bill Gaither’s leadership—has been an honor beyond words. I’ve grown as an artist, a man of faith, and a friend.”

To honor this occasion, the Gaither Vocal Band will highlight Wes’s contributions throughout the remainder of 2025 with special tributes during concerts, exclusive video content, and commemorative media features.

In a rare and momentous feature and on the cover of The Arts section, The New York Times profiled groundbreaking gospel star Tasha Cobbs Leonard, chronicling her bold creative leap with her forthcoming album, TASHA, releasing July 25 on Motown Gospel.

TASHA marks the first-ever studio album in Leonard’s extraordinary, award-winning career – a courageous step outside her comfort zone, one that finds her blending “hip-hop, R&B and even bluegrass” and even bluegrass into a dynamic and refreshingly transparent new sound.

“Songs on the new album evoke life’s figurative mountains and valleys, as well as urgent pleas from those whose faith has been shattered and needs repairing” NYT, Read Full Story

Tasha Cobbs Leonard, a 3x Grammy winner and Billboard’s Gospel Artist of the Decade, has continually broken barriers and redefined gospel’s place within the broader musical landscape. 

TASHA further highlights her transformative artistry, showcasing collaborations with a diverse roster of talent including EGOT-winner John Legend, gospel trailblazer Kirk Franklin, and Grammy-winning hip-hop artist Lecrae.

Tracks like “Already Good” embrace infectious Motown-style grooves, resonating with today’s revival of classic sounds, while “Church,” featuring Legend, seamlessly bridges the sacred and secular, offering listeners “who may not be comfortable stepping foot in a church” an intimate and soulful experience of spirituality in everyday life.

The past year has marked a powerful run—from performing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” on national broadcast at the NFL’s 2024 season opener, to winning another GRAMMY, all while continuing to co-pastor her church in South Carolina.

GRAMMY-nominated modern worship artist Phil Wickham has released the title track to his upcoming album, Songs Of The Saints. Co-written with Pastor Steven Furtick, this anthem is a declaration of faith and is available.

“It’s been so special to read through some of the comments on how this song is connecting in such a powerful way already,” shares Phil Wickham. “It truly means the world to me and fills my heart up so much. I’ve had the chance to lead ‘Song Of The Saints’ a few times now with the church, and every time, there’s this sense of confidence and reverence that fills the room.

This song is full of bold declarations about who God is and who we are in Him, and the chorus is this big response moment to those truths. ‘Song Of The Saints’ is also the title track of my upcoming album, releasing on September 12th. I can’t wait to share the rest with you then! But for now, go listen to ‘Song Of The Saints’ wherever you listen to music!”

Three tracks from the upcoming September album have already been released with significant fan-driven momentum and success across platforms.  The first song, “The King Is In The Room,” was his largest debut to date. He then surpassed this career-high with his second release, “What An Awesome God.”  

In an unprecedented fashion, these first two songs released are also simultaneously topping the radio chart.  With more than one hundred reporting stations on both songs, “The King Is In The Room” has risen to No. 3 on the Mediabase Christian Audience chart, while “What An Awesome God” has climbed to No. 6 on the same chart.  Last month, Wickham released his third single from the upcoming album, “Homesick For Heaven.”

Catch Wickham on one of the most extensive tours of the summer with Brandon Lake on the Summer Worship Nights Tour. Following that, this fall, he will be headlining the Air1 Worship Now Tour, which will hit 12 arenas across the country. He’ll be joined by Josh Baldwin, Charity Gayle, and Benjamin William Hastings for an incredible worship experience!

Phil Wickham Announces ‘Songs Of The Saints’ Album Arriving September 12

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The 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards – Gospel Music’s Greatest Night – gets even GREATER! Central City Productions announced today, GRAMMY Award-winning duo, BeBe and CeCe Winans will host the 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards taking place in Nashville, TN on August 16th, 2025 at the historic Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

This milestone will honor 40 years of celebrating gospel music and will feature electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and special honors recognizing gospel legends and rising stars alike, under the theme, OUR MUSIC, OUR VOICE, OUR CULTURE. Tickets are available now by visiting StellarAwards.com.

BeBe & CeCe Winans are a legendary sibling duo and trailblazers in gospel and inspirational music, known for their seamless blend of contemporary gospel, R&B, and soul. Hailing from the iconic Winans family of Detroit, BeBe & CeCe Winans rose to national prominence in the 1980s with their groundbreaking self-titled debut album and went on to achieve mainstream success with hits like “Addictive Love” and “Close to You.”

Over the course of their career, BeBe & CeCe Winans has garnered multiple GRAMMY, Dove, Stellar, and Soul Train Awards, breaking barriers for gospel artists in popular music. Whether together or apart, BeBe & CeCe Winans continue to inspire generations with their faith-driven artistry, soulful harmonies, and timeless message of hope and love.

Taking the stage for the 40th ceremony thus far: Adia, Donnie McClurkin, Dottie Peoples, Jekalyn Carr, Jason Nelson, Lisa Page Brooks, MAJOR., Melvin Crispell III, Pastor Mike Jr., Pastor Mike Todd & Transformation Worship, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Tasha Page-Lockhart, Tramaine Hawkins and William Murphy.

“We’re setting the tone for a night that celebrates 40 years of celebrating the greatest in gospel music,” said Jennifer Jackson, President of Central City Productions.

Additionally, STELLAR PLUS experience returns with two days of immersive industry and fan-focused events from Thursday, August 14th, through Friday, August 15th, ahead of the 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Dorinda Clark-Cole and Vincent Bohanan will host the Stellar Nominee Pre-Show Dinner and Awards at the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville on Friday, August 15th.

This exclusive, invitation-only event is open to all 2025 Stellar Award nominees. Expect more exciting announcements, including more performers, honorees, and more. For more information on Stellar Plus Events visit stellarplusexperience.com.

The 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Producer and Executive in Charge of Production; Michael A. Johnson as Producer and Director, Erin Johnson as Talent Producer, and Daniel Moore as Music Director.

This year’s Stellar Awards is presented by P&G (Procter & Gamble) with additional sponsorship provided by General Motors, State Farm, AT&T, Walmart, AFLAC, McDonald’s, and AARP. A full list of the 40th annual nominees can be found on the official Stellar Awards website. For more information, please visit stellarawards.com and join the conversation using the hashtag #TheStellars.

Grammy-award winning artist and America’s worship leader Chris Tomlin kicked off the first two “Worship Under The Stars” concert series Friday night in New York City’s Central Park followed by Saturday night’s concert at Pier Six Pavilion in Baltimore. See highlights from “Worship Under The Stars”

Chris will wrap his “Worship Under The Stars” at the famed Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre in Colorado (Oct 21), a venue he has sold out multiple times before.

Last week, Chis announced his upcoming new album The King Is Still The King and his new single “How Good It Is” during an appearance on Fox & Friends All-American Summer Concert Series. “How Good It Is” is his brand-new radio single and will be includedon his 18th studio album The King Is Still The King, scheduled to be released Friday, September 26, 2025.

“How Good It Is,” written by Chris, Jess Cates and Jordan Mohilowski, is available across all digital platforms now.

Chris Tomlin, one of the most successful Christian touring artists in the world, will launch his Fall headlining tour An Evening of Worship with Chris Tomlin on September 17 in Buffalo, NY and hit 20 cities across the U.S. He will be joined by and will introduce The Heritage for their inaugural tour. The tour will be promoted by TPR and sponsored by Food For The Hungry.

Having sold out venues across the country including Madison Square Garden (New York City), the Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles), Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater (Denver) and Bridgestone Arena (Nashville), the most often sung artist in the world will bring his powerful night of worship back to its roots and where it all began – in churches across the country. 

For a complete listing of tour dates, additional information and to purchase tickets, go to www.ChrisTomlin.com. 

PLATINUM-certified, GRAMMY-nominated artist and songwriter Anne Wilson will return to her home state of Kentucky for a special benefit concert at Corbin Arena in Corbin, Ky. on August 11, raising funds for families and communities impacted by the deadly tornado that struck Eastern Kentucky this May. With deep family ties to the region, the Lexington, Ky. native felt called to respond with hope and help through music.

All proceeds from the show will benefit tornado recovery efforts in the region, supporting both TheSheppard Family Foundation‘s direct work with families in London and Laurel County and the region-wide Appalachian Tornado Relief Fund. Tickets go on sale today at 12 p.m. local time via annewilsonofficial.com, with the concert presented in partnership with Rural King, America’s farm and home store.

“Kentucky is my home, and both the London and Somerset areas hold such dear memories for me,” shares Anne Wilson. “When I found out about the tornadoes that hit in May and the devastation they caused, I knew I wanted to host a night that could bring hope and raise money for those in need.

I’m so excited to be playing Corbin Arena for the very first time — the same venue where I saw so many concerts growing up. I’m praying this night of music brings healing, comfort and strength to those in need. I can’t wait to be back in my home state.”

Anne Wilson recently released her latest single “God Story,” a powerful reflection on faith, healing and the moments that shape us. It follows her breakout sophomore album REBEL and aligns her signature blend of worship and country storytelling. This month, Wilson will continue bringing that message to major Christian and country music festivals before joining Morgan Wallen’s I’m The Problem Tour for select dates.

Pastor, worship leader, and gospel recording artist Nnamdi Bonny is set to release his highly anticipated third single, “EL ROI”, a deeply moving live worship anthem featuring renowned Nigerian prophetic minstrel Kaestrings.

“EL ROI” — which translates to “The God Who Sees” — is a soul-stirring declaration of faith, inspired by real-life testimonies from the globally followed NSPPD prayer platform. This song emerges as a bold reminder that God is not distant, distracted, or disconnected — He is the ever-present, all-seeing Father.

“In the midst of life’s chaos, one truth remains constant: God sees,” says Nnamdi Bonny. “This song is my personal reminder — and an invitation to everyone — to trust in the God who is ever-present, ever-knowing, and ever-faithful.”

Kaestrings, known for his worship classic “Gashina”, lends his signature soul-infused vocals and passion for revival to this song, adding spiritual weight and musical synergy that will resonate with believers across denominations. With his prophetic sound and Hausa-acoustic style, Kaestrings continues to be a voice of awakening in the body of Christ.

“EL ROI” was produced by Bolaji Josiah Adegboye (BJ Dexterous), acclaimed for his work on Victor Thompson’s viral hit “I Pray”. The live mix was masterfully handled by SamDuke (Samuel Odey), ensuring that the energy, reverence, and sonic clarity of the moment remain intact.

Nnamdi Bonny Announces Powerful New Worship Anthem “EL ROI” Featuring Kaestrings

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About;

Debuting in 2022 with the heartfelt “I Hurum N’anya”, Nnamdi Bonny has quickly carved a niche as a worshipper with both lyrical depth and vocal anointing.

He followed up with “Jesus”, a stirring devotion anthem. Beyond music, he is a pastor under Living Faith Church, serving actively as a worship minister at Koinonia Abuja, one of Nigeria’s most dynamic revival hubs. He is also the host of “Your Weekly Impulse with Nnamdi Bonny” — a fast-growing YouTube series touching lives globally.

As a passionate husband, father, and preacher, Nnamdi’s music reflects a life deeply rooted in love for Christ and a calling to offer hope and healing through sound.

Reach Records returns with the seventh installment of their annual Summer Playlist. Entitled 116 Summer Twenty-Five, this year’s playlist features 12 new tracks from Lecrae, BEAM, 1K Phew, Trip Lee, Limoblaze, Alexxander, Lee Vasi, Big Breeze, and more.

By popular demand, the label’s summer music series returns after a one-year break. In partnership with Holy Culture Radio, the carefully curated playlist shines a spotlight on the future stars of Christian hip-hop and R&B. 116 Summer Twenty-Five brings together a growing wave of faith-based artists and producers who deliver something entirely new and unprecedented. It also features some of the most sonically diverse tracks from newcomers like Meezo, Dell Mac, MelodicB, Y Shadey, and teenage rap sensation DC3.

Ahead of its release, Reach Records gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at the ‘making of’ each song off this year’s Playlist. Each episode of the four-part miniseries, “Making Summer ‘25,” captures a snapshot of the artists at work, as they previewed tracks and discussed their creative process.

The final episode of the YouTube series premiered earlier this week (Wednesday, July 9) and unveiled the official tracklist for the 116 Summer Twenty-Five playlist. This year, Reach Records CEO, Lecrae, and James ‘Trig’ Rosseau from Holy Culture Radio hand-picked which songs made the list.

116 Summer Twenty-Five, out now, fuels further anticipation for Lecrae’s tenth studio album, Reconstruction, due this summer. Coinciding with the announcement of his new project, the 4X GRAMMY Award winner joined forces with Jackie Hill Perry for the first time in nine years on their latest collaboration, “Tell No Lie” – which samples the iconic “Amores Como el Nuestro” by Jerry Rivera (also known from Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie”).

Since its inception, Reach Records has long been a trailblazer in developing and amplifying diverse voices within Christian music. Now, the Summer ‘25 playlist underscores the label’s commitment to introducing fresh sounds that push creative boundaries.

This July, A CAPITOL FOURTH celebrated 45 spectacular years as America’s national Independence Day tradition, broadcasting live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. As the nation celebrated America’s 249th birthday, the evening featured all-star musical and patriotic performances from pop, country, R&B, classical and gospel artists.

Among this year’s lineup was Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle. Joined by the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of premier pops conductor Jack Everly, the 2025 edition of America’s biggest birthday party featured the greatest display of Independence Day fireworks anywhere in the USA lighting up the iconic D.C. skyline.

Lauren Daigle Marks Independence Day With Performance At ‘A Capitol Fourth’

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Singer/songwriter Seph Schlueter announces that tickets for leg two of his ‘Counting My Blessings’ headlining tour are on sale now. Seph will be hitting the road this September and October with special guest bodie. Visit sephschlueter.com to get your tickets today.

September 18, 2025 – Savannah, GA

September 19, 2025 – Charlotte, NC

September 20, 2025 – Charleston, SC

September 21, 2025 – Raleigh, NC

September 22, 2025 – Nashville, TN

September 24, 2025 – Lancaster, PA

September 25, 2025 – Portland, ME

September 26, 2025 – Downtown Boston, MA

September 27, 2025 – Little Washington, MD

September 28, 2025 – South Richmond, VA

October 2, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH

October 3, 2025 – Evansville, IN

October 4, 2025 – Pittsburgh, PA

October 5, 2025 – Virginia Beach, VA

Tickets On Sale Now For Seph Schlueter’s ‘Counting My Blessings Tour’ Leg 2

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Seph Schlueter is set to release his debut album Counting My Blessings, this week (July 11) via Provident Entertainment. With Counting My Blessings, Seph Schlueter delivers a powerful debut album that not only showcases his vocal and songwriting talent but, more importantly, his heart for ministry. The songs reflect a deep desire to offer hope, healing, and truth in every lyric, making this album one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Seph Schlueter exploded onto the CCM scene with his No. 1 song “Counting My Blessings,” which has recently been RIAA Certified Gold. As his first major label release, this song was also No. 1 on all four Christian charts for multiple weeks. The song was awarded the 2024 K-Love Breakout Single of the Year, nominated for Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year at the 2024 Dove Awards, and a finalist for the 2024 Billboard Awards Top Christian Song. In addition, Schlueter was named a 2025 Amazon Artist to Watch.