“This is my incomplete Christmas album,” singer Bryan Andrew Wilson laughs. “It’s been in progress for years. I’d do a part of a song and leave it and come back to finish it 2 years later.”  Aside from running a church, studying for a master’s degree, and working as an Atlanta educator, Wilson has been caretaker to several relatives. “My mother who set the standard for our family holidays died of cancer.

I took care of her those last few months. My former road manager died of COVID, and I took care of her funeral. My spiritual mother Duranice Pace died suddenly and several other people. It’s been a lot, and I wasn’t always in a Christmas spirit, but we finally finished some of the songs this year that we started years ago.

Jingle Jams opens with the slow jam, “The Best Gift.” Wilson wrote the song with producer Darryl Pearson whose resumé includes productions with Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, Mya, Drake, and Sam Smith. The next track “Jingle Bell Swing” is a Chicago-styled stepper’s track produced by Judah Sealy who has enjoyed No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz charts. Next up is Wilson’s Motown cover of Smokey Robinson & the Miracles’ 1963 gem, “Christmas Everyday.”

On the second half of the album, Wilson takes the listener to a Pentecostal church. He opens this section with the quasi-classical song he co-wrote with Blake Wesley Pace, “Greatest Gift of All.” It features Wilson’s full-throated tenor against the majestic backing vocals of the Washington, D.C.-based group Roderick Giles & Grace (who backed Wilson on his 2016 Billboard No. 1 gospel hit, “Overflow”) and the celestial string orchestration of Yoed Nir (Judy Collins, Regina Spektor).

Then, Wilson saunters over to New Orleans for “The Savior Has Come” that features the Grammy Award winning Rebirth Brass Band (who have collaborated with the likes of Trombone Shorty, Jon Batiste and Harry Connick Jr.) who bring a Bourbon Street marching band and a rickety  church pew together for a festive celebration of the savior’s birth.

On the bluesy “A Wonderful Child,” Wilson is joined by 90-year-old gospel music legend Dorothy Norwood and vocal dynamo Darrel Wallsof the Grammy Award nominated, The Walls Group) for a gutbucket rumination on the birth of Christ.

Bryan Andrew Wilson Shares ‘Jingle Jams’

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The album closes with the funky, percussive “He Brought Joy” that Wilson says is a nod to the godfather of soul James Brown’s church roots. “I have five more songs that I didn’t want to rush, so we’ll finish those in the new year and reissue the whole thing as a complete album in 2025,” Wilson adds. “The songs that didn’t make it are cool songs, I think. I can’t wait to finish them and reintroduce this project next year.”

This year marks the 30^th anniversary of Bryan’s entrance on the music scene when the then- ten-year-old sang a dynamic rendition of “His Eye is on the Sparrow” with the Mississippi Children’s Choir back in 1994 for Malaco Records. Wilson’s dramatic high notes and note-bending made the song and instant success that’s earned him millions of YouTube and TikTok views in the digital era. “That song seems to go viral every few months,” Wilson laughs. “It’s pretty amazing how that happens.”

Southbound, the Southern Gospel group renowned for their powerful harmonies and chart-topping hits, is set to release their highly anticipated 12-track full-length album, I Left It In The Water, on January 17, 2025. This new collection of songs promises to be their most impactful work to date, following the success of their title track “I Left It In The Water.”

Southbound has established themselves as a powerful force in Southern Gospel, blending traditional influences with contemporary sounds. Their heartfelt lyrics and harmonies have earned them widespread recognition, along with numerous accolades and chart-topping singles. 

I Left It In The Water, builds on this success, featuring an array of upbeat, toe-tapping tracks like “God Uses Everything,” “The Battle Is Not Yours,” and “Call On Jesus,” alongside reflective soul-stirring songs such as “Nothing,” “The Old Me,” and “No Word But Holy.”

Southbound Set To Release ‘I Left It In The Water’ January 17

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Sarantos’ new single, “God Doesn’t Make Mistakes,” is a moving testament to the power of faith, God’s sovereignty, and the beauty of redemption. Rooted in raw honesty, the track speaks to the struggles of doubt and brokenness while affirming God’s unwavering love and purpose in our lives.

From the opening lines—“Yesterday you found yourself screaming / At a God you didn’t believe in”—Sarantos sets the stage for a story of wrestling with belief. The lyrics reflect a deeply relatable struggle: feeling abandoned by God in moments of pain, only to discover His presence in hindsight.

The chorus serves as the emotional and spiritual anchor, declaring: “The Architect of Fate / Knows what it takes / Love is a choice / He doesn’t make mistakes.” It’s a powerful reminder that God’s plan, even when unclear, is perfect, and His love is constant.

Musically, “God Doesn’t Make Mistakes” complements its spiritual message with a stripped-back, reflective arrangement. Gentle acoustic guitars, light percussion, and subtle keys provide a worshipful atmosphere, letting Sarantos’ words and heartfelt delivery shine.

His vocals carry a sincerity that feels like a prayer—honest, vulnerable, and full of hope. In the bridge, “His story isn’t finished yet / His voice always echoes through the canyons of our soul,” Sarantos beautifully captures God’s promise to never leave or forsake us, even when we feel lost.

Sarantos – “God Doesn’t Make Mistakes” | Single Review

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What makes this song stand out is its bold and biblical truth: God doesn’t make mistakes. Romans 8:28 tells us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,” a promise Sarantos weaves throughout the song. Life’s hardships, doubts, and heartaches may cloud our vision, but God is always at work, shaping us for His glory and our good.

“God Doesn’t Make Mistakes” isn’t just a song—it’s a testimony. For anyone struggling with doubt, loss, or feeling unworthy, this track is a comforting reminder that God’s love is steadfast. Through faith and trust, we come to see that He is the Architect of our lives, and every moment—no matter how painful—has a purpose in His perfect plan.

–Art Johnson

With simple yet profoundly powerful lyrics and a captivating melody, “Light Come” is both a prophecy and a declaration of the truth of our identity in Christ: that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth.

Recorded live with an intimate gathering of passionate worshippers “Light Come” is a catalyst for revival.

Arise, shine! For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you – Isaiah 60:1

Light Come – Isabella Melodies

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LYRICS

I am the light of the world
The salt of the earth
A chosen generation
To show forth His praise
(Repeat)

Aye Aye (Aye Aye)
Aye Aye (Aye Aye)
Aye Aye (Aye Aye)
Light come

I am light (I am light)
I shine bright (I shine bright)
For the Spirit of the Lord
Is at work in my life
(Repeat)

 

Purist Ogboi wraps up her musical year with the release of “Lion And The Lamb,” a heartfelt song of adoration proclaiming the greatness of our Lord Yeshua. This soul-stirring worship anthem is a timely reminder of God’s sovereignty and love, inspiring listeners to lift their voices in praise.

Produced by the renowned Evans Ogboi for Simplicity Records, UK, “Lion And The Lamb” is now streaming on all major platforms. Complementing the release, the official music video is now available to watch on Purist Ogboi’s YouTube channel.

Join Purist Ogboi in declaring the greatness of the Lion And The Lamb with this anointed release.

Lion And The Lamb – Purist Ogboi

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Lion And The Lamb – Lyrics

The Lion of Judah

The Lamb that was slain

Be all blessing, glory, honour and power

The One who holds all power, El ‘Elyon

We hail You Lion and the Lamb

We hail You Lion and the Lamb

Elohim 3x

GRAMMY-Award-winning group Elevation Worship was named the winner of this year’s Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs) for “Top Christian Artist,” “Top Christian Album (CAN YOU IMAGINE?)” and “Top Christian Song (“Praise”). Elevation Worship was one of four artists awarded three wins last night. With this year’s wins, Elevation Worship has five career BBMAs.

The awards honor the year’s biggest artists, albums, songs, producers, and songwriters across multiple genres, as determined by year-end performance metrics on the Billboard charts.

“It’s an honor to see that our songs touched so many hearts and made an impact this year. Thankful for every person who’s been singing along with us,” shares Elevation Worship’s Chris Brown.

The BBMA Top Christian Song “Praise” was the breakout single of the year as it spent more than 30 weeks atop Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart. It is the fourth song to top the Hot Christian Songs chart for 30 weeks or longer throughout its 21-year history.

Elevation Worship is also nominated for two categories at the 2025 GRAMMY Awards on February 2. The group is nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for their song “Praise” and Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for their album When Wind Meets Fire. The  67th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 2, broadcast live on the CBS Television Network and streamed live and on-demand on Paramount+.

Elevation Worship will hit the road again for Elevation Nights Tour in 2025 featuring eight new arena dates with tickets currently on sale. 

Matthew West’s multifaceted company Story House Collective officiallyannounces a new joint venture with Essential Music Publishing today (12/13). As part of this exciting partnership, songwriter and producer Matt Armstrong has signed a worldwide publishing deal with Story House and Essential Music Publishing.

Additionally, Armstrong will serve in a dual role as A&R for Story House, aiding in the discovery and development of emerging writers and artists.

Armstrong brings with him an impressive track record, including songs recorded by top Christian music artists such as Casting Crowns, Passion, Bethel Music, Jesus Culture, Ellie Holcomb, Zach Williams, Sanctus Real and Kristene DiMarco. Notably, his contributions have earned him credits on chart-topping hits, including Chris Tomlin’s “At The Cross (Love Ran Red),” which serves as the title track of the GRAMMY-nominated album.

“It’s an honor to come alongside Story House and Essential Music Publishing,” shares Armstrong. “Songwriting and nurturing the next generation of songwriters and artists is a passion I’ve long carried. Songs are mouthpieces of the gospel to the world, and it’s a privilege to continue to be a part of the craft.”

West, founder of Story House, also expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, sharing, “I’ve been a fan of Matt’s songwriting for a long time. As talented as he is, his work ethic is just as impressive, and I know his best songs are still ahead of him. I’m also excited to see him step into this dual role. He has demonstrated a unique ability to spot undiscovered talent, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have him join the Story House team!”

The joint venture between Essential Music Publishing and Story House represents a shared mission dedicated to championing and nurturing the future of music and songwriting talent while fostering an environment for growth and creativity.

“While perhaps most widely known as a successful recording artist, it’s Matthew West’s writing credits across multiple artists and genres that truly sets him apart as a creative,” shares Jamie Rodgers, VP of Essential Music Publishing. “It’s an immense privilege to come alongside both him and the entire Story House team to champion and develop the next generation of songwriters.

I can’t wait to see what the shared passion and focus between their team and Essential Music Publishing are able to accomplish in the years to come,”

Pulse Evangelism, a global evangelistic ministry leading one of the largest prayer and outreach efforts in the world, announces a global broadcast called Anthem Christmas, to celebrate faith, community and hope. The event features NFL quarterback Carson Wentz, top Christian artists Rend Collective and Katy Nichole and global evangelist Nick Hall.

The broadcast is available the week of Christmas, from Wednesday, December 18 through Friday, December 27 at anthem.org/christmas.

The 30-minute Anthem Christmas broadcast will combine a Gospel message by Hall, stories from Wentz and Pulse 100 Alumni Cia Cloud and performances by Rend Collective and Katy Nichole. Brand new renditions of “Silent Night” and “Amazing Grace” by Katy Nichole combine the power of song and story to inspire viewers to share their testimonies of grace this December.

Everyone has an anthem to sing, but Anthem Christmas is about shining light on the most important message in a noisy world—the life-changing truth of Jesus. This digital presentation of the Gospel, available in over 30 countries with translations in English, Russian and Spanish, allows viewers to experience a new anthem bringing hope worldwide during the holiday season.

“Christmas is a time when we reflect on Jesus as the light, offering a new opportunity to share our anthem story with those who are hurting and broken,” said Nick Hall. “Through this broadcast, we hope to create a space where people experience the love and grace that Jesus offers and encourage people to share it with others this season.”

As an NFL football player for the last 7 years and current Kansas City Chiefs player, Wentz will speak on his faith and leadership journey on and off the field. Cia, a Christian influencer with a 275K following, will also share her testimony, a story of experiencing abuse at a young age and how she continues to find joy in the Lord.

Dedicated to radiating joy to others, Cia represents how others can find value and worth in God’s eyes. In addition to these powerful stories, the broadcast will include all-new performances by Rend Collective and Katy Nichole, inviting viewers to worship in celebration of Jesus.

Rend Collective & Katy Nichole Featured In Upcoming Global Christmas Broadcast

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Nick Hall’s message is centered on the transformative power of Jesus, highlighting the Gospel as a light in the darkness. By embracing the hope and grace that Jesus offers, Hall challenges viewers to reflect on how Jesus—the true meaning of Christmas—can change their anthem and bring renewed purpose and strength.

The Anthem Christmas broadcast is a key part of Anthem, a global movement composed of additional broadcasts and events inspiring believers to confidently share their story. Anchored by the universal hymn “Amazing Grace,” the movement unites people across cultures and languages in a shared chorus of grace. By equipping individuals, churches and organizations with tools to amplify their stories of reset, Anthem seeks to ignite a global awakening, inviting every person to encounter the hope and transformation found in Jesus.

The campaign kicked off in March with a global Good Friday broadcast featuring 65 different languages including Russian, Mandarin and Persian, reaching 90 million people worldwide. Throughout the length of the campaign, viewers are invited to submit their personal stories of grace. It will culminate in an Anthem Good Friday broadcast on April 18, 2025 that will include some of the video recordings and testimonies about the life-changing grace found in Jesus.

The global movement aims to reach 1 billion people with the message of Jesus by 2033, igniting a chorus of grace to reach the farthest corners of the globe.

New York Times bestselling author and speaker Lysa TerKeurst announces her 2025 “Trust Again Tour” featuring worship leader and author Tasha Layton. The tickets for the eight-city tour are on sale today at 11 am local time. Purchase tickets for this special night of powerful worship, Biblical teaching, and practical takeaways to help heal your heart, mind, and soul.

When something or someone breaks our heart, it can feel like our trust in God is shattered too. Maybe you find yourself asking: Why would He allow this to happen? Am I the only one suffering while the person who hurt me got away with it? God, where is your goodness in this? Lysa TerKeurst has asked these same questions and deeply understands.

But she’s also learned this truth: There will always be gaps in our trust in people, but there are no gaps in the trustworthiness of God. That’s why she’s creating special one-night events on the Trust Again Tour during the spring of 2025 with worship leader, Tasha Layton.

“To the woman who needs reassurance that God can be trusted … I deeply understand the pain and skepticism you must feel. But here’s what I’ve come to know: Faith in God means being assured of His goodness even when what He allows doesn’t feel good, seem good, or look good right now,” shares Lysa TerKeurst.

“We may not always understand His ways or know why certain things happen, but we can trust that in this very moment, He is working. God’s definition of good may be different than ours, but different doesn’t mean it’s bad, it’s just different from what we expected.”

TerKeurst adds, “I’ve learned so much from my journey and I want to share it all with you … the scriptural wisdom I’ve gained, the tools that have been helpful, the setbacks, and the victories. That’s why I’m so excited to come to a city near you for the Trust Again Tour with my friend and worship leader, Tasha Layton.

My prayer is that after leaving these one-night events, you’ll be more assured in God’s absolute love for you, helping you trust Him more deeply.”

“I love Lysa so much, so I was thrilled to get the invite to tour with her,” shares Tasha Layton. “I can’t wait to see what the Lord does this coming spring.”

2025 Trust Again Tour Dates

February 25, 2025 – Flowood, MS
February 26, 2025 – Webster, TX
February 28, 2025 – New Braunfels, TX
March 3, 2025 – Denver, CO
March 5, 2025 – Mesa, AZ
March 6, 2025 – Cypress, CA
March 8, 2025 – Tualatin OR
March 9, 2025 – Gig Harbor, WA

The 2024 Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs), presented by Marriott Bonvoy, aired on Thursday, December 12 at 8:00pm ET/PT on FOX and Fire TV Channels.

The BBMAs honor the year’s biggest artists, albums, songs, producers and songwriters across multiple genres, as determined by year-end performance metrics on the Billboard charts, the music industry’s ultimate authority and data-driven measure of success. Winners for relevant Christian and Gospel music categories are below. Congratulations to all the nominees!

Top Christian Artist

Lauren Daigle

Elevation Worship – WINNER!

Forrest Frank

Brandon Lake

Anne Wilson

Top Gospel Artist

Kirk Franklin

Maverick City Music

Chandler Moore

Naomi Raine

CeCe Winans – WINNER!

Top Christian Song

Elevation Worship feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore “Praise” – WINNER!

Forrest Frank “GOOD DAY”

Josiah Queen “The Prodigal”

Seph Schlueter “Counting My Blessings”

Tauren Wells with We The Kingdom & Davies “Take It All Back”

Top Gospel Song

Koryn Hawthorne “Look at God”

Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine “God Problems”

Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine ft. Tasha Cobbs Leonard “In the Room”

Victor Thompson X Gunna feat. Ehis ‘D’ Greatest “THIS YEAR (Blessings)”

CeCe Winans “That’s My King” – WINNER!

Top Christian Album

Elevation Worship, CAN YOU IMAGINE? – WINNER!

Forrest Frank, CHILD OF GOD

Brandon Lake, COAT OF MANY COLORS

Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine, The Maverick Way Complete: Complete Vol 02

Katy Nichole, Jesus Changed My Life

Top Gospel Album

Kirk Franklin, Father’s Day

Koryn Hawthorne, On God

Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine, The Maverick Way Complete: Complete Vol 02 – WINNER!

CeCe Winans, More Than This

Naomi Raine, Cover The Earth: Live in New York