Search Results

Acclaimed gospel artist and songwriter Kierra Sheard will receive the BMI Impact Award in recognition of her impressive career and impact on the future of gospel music. Courtesy of Kierra Sheard / BMI BMI will also honor the songwriters, producers and music publishers of the past year’s 25 most-performed gospel songs in the United States. RELATED: 2025 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Honors John P. Kee The 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards will be held at BMI’s Nashville office on Tuesday, July 21st. The private event will be hosted by BMI CEO Mike O’Neill and Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton. Isn’t this dope? ✨ RELATED: These 9 Gospel Tiny Desk Concerts Will Make You Shout

Churchy and proud! Kelontae Gavin's hit song “At The Meeting” has surpassed 110 million TikTok views, and it’s still going up! Courtesy of Capital Entertainment The song was created from a spontaneous moment at a live concert and has grown into a staple part of church social media culture. “I had just ministered and said something like, ‘I done talked too long,’” Gavin recalls. “Then, I remembered this old quartet song I heard in Charleston, and I started singing it.” RELATED: 3 Social Media Marketing Strategies Churches Used This Easter That Actually Worked Supporters posted clips online, and it quickly took off, with both the saints and ain’ts running the sound up on TikTok, showing off their church outfits, especially during the Easter/Ressurection Sunday season. After the snippet’s success, Kelontae has decided to record a full-length version, marking his first release since returning to Tyscot Records. He describes the song as “a low country banger” that’s authentic to his roots. Kelontae Gavin Returns to Tyscot Records "At the Meeting" being Gavin's first release since returning to Tyscot Records is commemorative, since he began his career with Tyscot back in 2016 as a teenager. The label celebrated its 50th year in 2026 and is widely recognized as the oldest existing Black-owned gospel recording label in operation. In addition to Gavin, it is currently home to celebrated gospel artists like Jason Nelson, John P Kee, Vashawn Mitchell, Tasha Page Lockhart, Anthony Brown & more! RELATED: Kirk Franklin Set to Host 41st Annual Stellar Awards: John P. Kee & Kim Person Tied For Most Nominations Kelontae's Early Success Set the Stage for "At the Meeting" Gavin is no stranger to going viral. His initial rise occurred after a school employee recorded him singing in the lunchroom. He later returned to the school to thank the employee for the viral clip and to bless her with a monetary donation. The song has become popular in both spiritual and secular spaces, proving that gospel music and church culture have a reach far beyond the sanctuary. "At the Meeting- Live" is currently available on all streaming platforms. Have you posted a video on social media using this sound? 🔥

Central City Productions has announced the nominees for the 41st Annual Stellar Awards. The Gospel Music Awards ceremony will be taped live from the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC, on Saturday, August 15, 2025. With electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and special honors recognizing gospel legends and rising stars alike, this year's Stellar Awards theme is "Feels Like Home." Kirk Franklin Returns as Host for the 9th Time Gospel legend Kirk Franklin will host the show. In addition to having won 45 Stellar Awards and counting, Franklin has hosted the ceremony nine times. He hosted for the first time alongside Donnie McClurkin and Yolanda Adams in 2000 and has reprised his role on eight additional occasions, including a back-to-back stint in 2018, 2019, and 2020. RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards RELATED: 39th Annual Stellar Awards: The Greatest Night in Gospel John P. Kee & Kim Person Tie for Top Nominations John P. Kee and Kim Person lead all nominees with seven nominations each, followed closely by Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise with six nominations apiece. Jekalyn Carr, Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers, and Vincent Bohanan & SOV each received five nominations. In a milestone moment, Tyscot Records, the oldest operating African American-owned gospel label in the world, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with 19 nominations across its affiliated acts, including Darrel Walls, PJ Morton, Melvin Crispell, John P. Kee, and Brandon Camphor & One Way. RELATED: 2025 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Honors John P. Kee The 41st Stellar Awards will honor this year's best and brightest in gospel music. View the complete list of nominations across 37 categories below: Artist of the Year Darrel Walls; Heart of Mine; Tyscot Records / Gumbo Studios Jekalyn Carr; Jekalyn X The Legends; Waynorth Music Kim Person; Reflections; Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Tasha Cobbs Leonard; TASHA; Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Tye Tribbett; Only on the Road (Live); Motown Gospel, Freligious Music Song of the Year “Able” ft. Kim Burrell ~ Paul Sylvester Morton Jr.~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios “Come Jesus Come” ~ Stephen McWhirter, Tara McWhirter, Hank Bentley, and Bryan Fowler ~ Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services “On the Way” Remix ft. Erica Campbell ~ Adia Andrews, Karl Powell, Michael McClure Jr., Jeremy James, Jaicko Raphael Lawrence, Israel Allen, & Erica Campbell ~ Rock City Media Group “Promises (Live)” ~ Alescia Knowles-Smith ~ EvoWorld Entertainment “Your Love” ~ Kim Person ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Album of the Year Heart of Mine ~ Darrel Walls ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent Reflections ~ Kim Person ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise TASHA ~ Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Male Artist of the Year Asaun Bynum ~ True to Him ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment Darrel Walls ~ Heart of Mine ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios John P. Kee ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Jonathan McReynolds ~ Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Tye Tribbett ~ Only on the Road (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Freligious Music Contemporary Male Artist of the Year Darrel Walls~ Heart of Mine ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studio Jonathan McReynolds~ Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Thomas Ware~ The Book of Thomas ~ Blockbuster Records/CHMG Music Group Zacardi Cortez~ Ibhar: The Journey (Chapter 2) ~ Blacksmoke Music Traditional Male Artist of the Year E. Dewey Smith~ Songs Daddy Used To Sing ~ Pebble Street Records Earnest Pugh~ We Wanna See You, Vol 1 Live ~ Blacksmoke Music Worldwide JJ Hairston~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year Adia ~ On the Way EP ~ Rock City Media Group Jekalyn Carr ~ Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Waynorth Music Kim Person ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Lisa Knowles Smith ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Maranda Curtis ~ Worship Restored ~ ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ TASHA ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Contemporary Female Artist of the Year Adia ~ On the Way EP ~ Rock City Media Group Crystal Aikin ~ Lord I Need Your Help ~ Godshand Management Services LLC/Mixed Bag Entertainment Erica Campbell ~ Trust and Obey – London ~ My Block Records Inc. Kim Person ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Nia Allen ~ Lord I Love You ~ Lewis-Kortez Group Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ TASHA ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Traditional Female Artist of the Year Blanche McAllister-Dykes ~ Words (Donald Lawrence) ~ Platoon Bobbi Lane ~ He Never Failed Me ft. Paul Porter ~ Taylor Music Group K. Jeanette ~ Jesus Is My Friend ft. Shawn Bigby ~ Devine Records Lucinda Moore ~ Someone who cares (the lala song) ft Bishop Paul S. Morton ~ Nalah Music Group/New Day Christian Distributor New Artist of the Year Ablaze ~ Ablaze ~ Independent Asaun Bynum ~ True to Him ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment Bishop Charles Ellis & Greater Grace Worship Choir ~ Graceful Records United Music & Arts Conference Choir ~ Clap Your Hands ft. Beverly Crawford & Craig Hayes ~ High C Traditional Artist of the Year E. Dewey Smith ~ Songs Daddy Used To Sing ~ Pebble Street Records Jekalyn Carr ~ Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Waynorth Music JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Duo/Chorus Group of the Year Asaun Bynum ft. LeekGoHard ~ Jesus I Love You ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment CeCe Winans & Pastor Shirley Caesar ~ Come Jesus Come ~ Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Jason Clayborn x Melvin Crispell III ~ Whatever It Is ~ Jay Clay Music/Tyscot Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Still (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Traditional Duo/ Chorus Group of the Year Brandon Camphor & One Way~ In Christ Alone ~ TOMii Entertainment Darrel Petties & Take 2~ Word ~ Independent Lucinda Moore featuring Bishop Paul S. Morton ~ Someone who cares (the lala song) ~ Nalah MusicGroup/New Day Christian Distributor Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard~ Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year Deitrick Haddon & Voices of Unity ~ Chain Breaker 2.5 ~ ManHaddon Ministries/Tyscot Records Jason Clayborn x Melvin Crispell III ~ Whatever It Is ~ Jay Clay Music/Tyscot Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Still (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Mariah Carey (feat. The Clark Sisters ~ Jesus I Do ~ MARIAH/gamma. Red Hands ~ Red Hands ~ Black Suit Music/Anderson Music Group/TAMLA Records Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft. John Legend ~ Church ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records The Group Fire ~ I Can Count on You ~ Jet Records North/East Choir of the Year B. Chase Williams & Shabach ~ Secret Place ~ Millie’s Boy Muzik JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Live in New York ~ Independent Traditional Choir of the Year B. Chase Williams & Shabach ~ Secret Place ~ Millie’s Boy Muzik Bishop Brian D. Moore & The Life Center Choir ~ Always Come Through ~ Independent JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Contemporary Choir of the Year Ablaze ~ Ablaze ~ Independent Johnny Sanders Featuring Faith on Full ~ A Song ~ Just 1 Global Productions/Johnny Sanders Presents LLC Sounds of Blackness Feat Jamecia Bennett, NUNNABOVE, Atlanta Drum Academy ~ We’re Unstoppable ~ Sounds of Blackness/AtomicK Records Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Live in New York ~ Independent Voices of Fire ~ Ophanim ~ EZ FLO Innovations LLC/PW Music/Warner Records Quartet of the Year Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment The Flying Clouds of South Carolina ~ Don’t Leave Me ~ Blockbuster Records The Gospel Legends ~ Jesus Is the Man ~ 4Winds/Malaco Records Tim White ~ Help Live in Chicago ~ Independent Producer of the Year Alescia Knowles-Smith & Frederick Perry ~ Revival: Live in Dallas (Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers) ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Donald Lawrence & Cedric Thompson ~ Global Love Alive (London) ~ Platoon Kim Person & Phillip Bryant ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise PJ Morton ~ Heart of Mine (Darrel Walls) ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Music Video of the Year “I Am Happy” ~ Allen Carr & Jekalyn Carr ~ Waynorth Music “Find Jesus” ~ Deitrick Haddon ~ ManHaddon Ministries/Tyscot Records “You Matter” ~ Maurice Griffin ~ World Changing Entertainment “On the Way Remix” (Adia ft. Erica Campbell) ~ Will Thomas ~ Rock City Media Contemporary Album of the Year Fred Hammond Presents Sensere: The Soul of Future Worship Vol. II ~ Sensere ~ Wrightsound M&E Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent TASHA ~ Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records The Book of Thomas ~ Thomas Ware ~ Blockbuster Records/CHMG Music Group Traditional Album of the Year Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Jekalyn Carr ~ Waynorth Music Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music Throwback: An Evening With John P. Kee Part I; ~ John P. Kee & New Life ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Urban Single or Performance of the Year “Church Parking Lot” ft. Tasha Page-Lockhart ~ Otis Kemp ~ Revive 5.0 Entertainment “Do It Again” ~ Kirk Franklin ~ Fo Yo Soul Recordings/Tribl Records “Jesus I Love You” ~ Asaun Bynum ft. LeekGoHard ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment “Make a Way” ~ VaShawn Mitchell ~ VMan Entertainment/Fair Trade Services “On the Way” Remix ft. Erica Campbell ~ Adia ~ Rock City Media Group “The Light” ~ Jor’Dan Armstrong ~ Jor’Dan Armstrong Music/Lewis-Kortez Group Special Event Album of the Year Bishop S.Y. Younger Presents: Almost Home – A Ramp Record with Friends ~ Bishop S.Y. Younger ~ Ramp Records, Under Exclusive License to MNRK Records LP Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ John P. Kee & New Life ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Rap/Hip Hop Gospel Album of the Year All We Like Sheep ~ Childlike CiCi ~ Capitol Christian Music Group, TAMLA Party in Heaven ~ Mike Teezy ~ MTEntertainment, LLC Reconstruction ~ Lecrae ~ Reach Records Walking With Purpose ~ DFG SUL ~ Independent Youth Project of the Year AMG Kidz x Wilson World; Boombox; Anderson Music Group / TAMLA Records Janessa Smith; Lift Him; Inspired Recording Pure N Heart; Alphaeus Anderson Presents Pure N Heart Celebrate Jesus 20yrs; Music2ChangeU Recorded Music Packaging of the Year Brianna Dowd & JJ Hairston – The Live Reunion – Motown Gospel/Jamestown Music Kim Person & JP Designs Art – Reflections – Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Octavius Holmes – Jekalyn Carr x The Legends – Waynorth Music PJ Morton – Heart of Mine (Darrel Walls) – Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Praise and Worship Album of the Year Coritos Vol. 1; Israel & New Breed; Integrity Music/District 11 Jesus Over Everything (Live in Las Vegas); Naomi Raine; Tribl Records Promises; Todd Dulaney; DulaneyLand Music, FairTrade Services Worship Restored; Maranda Curtis; ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media Praise And Worship Song of the Year “Be Glad” ~ Naomi Raine ~ Tribl Records “Bless Your Name” ~ Maranda Curtis ~ ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media “Proverbs 3” ~ Todd Dulaney ~ DulaneyLand Music, FairTrade Services “Your Name” ~ Jovonta Patton ~ Newton Street Entertainment/Integrity Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year “Headphones” ~ Lecrae ft. TI & Killer Mike ~ Reach Records “Move It!” ~ 1K Phew Ft. Forrest Frank & 1K Pson ~ Reach Records “Movin” ~ JustCordell ~ Rock City Media Group “10X My Blessings” ~ Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz ft. Isaac Carree, Jazze Pha, Gaz Money, & Blanco Brown ~ Blacksmoke Music Worldwide HBCU Choir of the Year Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University ft. Damien Sneed & The Levites and Kierra Sheard Kelly Morgan State University Choir NCA&T Fellowship Gospel Choir Southern University Gospel Choir ft. Cameron Blain The Fort Valley State University Choir ft. Loren Michelle & Tiffany Boone Gospel Radio of the Year Nominees Top Market of the Year WPZE Praise 102.5 ~ Atlanta WPZS 102.5 and 610AM ~ Charlotte WFTB 104.1 ~ Nashville WPRS Praise 92.7/95.9 ~ Washington, DC Medium Market of the Year WDEK Columbia’s Praise 95.7|1170 AM ~ Columbia WFMV 96.1FM 620AM ~ Columbia WXHL 89.1 FM Reach Gospel Radio ~ Wilmington KFFH 93.7 FM ~ North Little Rock Small Market of the Year WWDA FM 101.9 ~ Clarksville WRNP 94.1 FM ~ Ft. Wayne WEHA 88.7FM 100.3 ~ Atlantic City WKTT 97.5 FM ~ Salisbury Internet Station of the Year Black Gospel Radio, https://BlackGospelRadio.net Hands Up Radio, https://handsupradio.org WTRC Praise 98.3, https://live365.com/station/a33136 WVTC Detroit, https://wvtcdetroit.com Syndicated Gospel Radio Show of the Year Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell; Erica Campbell with Arlen “Griff” Griffin & Cheryl Jackson The Bobby Parker Show; Bobby Parker The Tracy Morgan Show; Tracy Morgan Willie Moore Jr.; Willie Moore Jr. Gospel Announcer of the Year Anna Johnson; WFLT 1420 AM, Flint, MI Neiko Flowers; WPZE 102.5, Atlanta, GA Pam Dixon; WEAM 100.7, Columbus, GA Trey Nickelson; WBZF-FM – Glory 98.5, Florence, SC

Keith Lee is no stranger to bringing people together, and the first annual Familee Day proved that he can do it on a grand scale. Photo by: John Angelillo/UPI Partnering with Live Nation Urban and Morrow Hospitality, the internet's favorite positive Black family brought a full day of food, music, rides, games, and community to the UNO Lakefront Festival Grounds in New Orleans. The festival featured a largely local vendor lineup, giving New Orleans businesses like Jerk House a platform to shine alongside a few standout out-of-town names like Cleo's Southern Cuisine, LaLa Land, and Trill Burgers. RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards Performances from Kirk Franklin, Andra Day, Gracie's Corner, and more kept the energy high from start to finish, with KevOnStage holding it down as host. Attendees took to social media to share their thoughts on the event. Many described the experience as "one big family reunion." Supporters expressed pride in seeing the continued growth of the Lee family's impact. In several viral clips, Keith Lee can be seen praising during a Gospel performance of "Smile" by Kirk Franklin. RELATED: Erica Campbell Praises Jesus at the 2025 NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors As with most first-year outdoor festivals, there was some constructive feedback. "Parking sucked," noted @kristalterrell on TikTok, a sentiment echoed by several attendees. The no-reentry policy was also flagged as an area for improvement. But those critiques did little to dampen the overall spirit of the day. It's always dope to see believers doing big things and thanking God for their blessings, and Keith Lee is doing exactly that. And if you missed it, don't worry. Keith Lee has already announced that Familee Day 2027 will be taking place in Chicago. Isn't this wholesome?

Usher Raymond garnered a massive reaction, and a well-deserved one at that, when he mentioned his favorite gospel song on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Photo by ImagePress Agency / Depositphoto During the episode that aired on Thursday (September 11) on CBS, the artist shared how spirituality and singing in the church choir helped develop him musically. He expressed that it trained him well, noting that he has an honorary doctorate from Berklee, although he can't read music. The singer named the 1995 classic hit, When Sunday Comes , composed by Donald Lawrence and performed by the late Darly Coley. Social media users gathered in the comment section in support of his song choice, saying things like, "You can't go wrong with Daryl Coley!" RELATED: Paige Bueckers Shares Top 3 Gospel Songs at 2025 WNBA Draft Photo by John Matthew Smith / Creative Commons They say Usher's response was unexpected, but that he has good taste. It's not a song you just happen to know in passing. It's a powerful track that is typically encountered by those who are deeply involved in the church or have a vast appreciation for gospel music. Donald Lawrence, whose Tri-City Singers sang backup on the live recording, joined the comment section to share his thoughts: @blackchurchtok / Instagram Naturally, the juxtaposition of Usher's innocent childhood in the church choir with his adulthood performances caused viewers, as well as the host himself, Stephen Colbert, to wonder, "How did Usher go from  Amazing Grace  to  Nice & Slow ?" RELATED: Michelle Williams Says Her First Kiss & First Fight Were in Church The discussion in the comment section quickly veered from Daryl Coley's musical genius to Usher's salvation. One commenter wrote, "That's cool. Prayerfully, he knows the Lord and gets saved." Photo by Everett Collection/ Shutterstock Coincidentally, a throwback clip of Usher at a decades-old BET event resurfaced. In the clip, the interviewer asks the young performer how he stays grounded, to which he responds, "My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Usher credits friends and family members, such as his mother and grandmother, for his strong Christian upbringing in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His love for gospel music, coupled with the proud proclamations of his faith during his early career, are common characteristics of a church kid. What do you think of his song choice? RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards

The trending and thought-provoking Christian game " And Let the Church Say..."  is bringing your faith and the party to life with topics that will have you shouting "Amen!" or "I Rebuke That". Travis Greene plays the And Let the Church Say Game on the red carpet at the 40th Annual Stellar Awards in Nashville, Tennessee. As Believers, there are certain non-negotiables that we can all agree on. When it comes to the Gospel, salvation, and eternity, we can rely on the word of God to guide our opinions in truth. But it's fun to hear the perspective of friends and family when it comes to things like...how many times the preacher should ask you to turn to your neighbor and say something during a sermon. We played the game with various church congregations in Philadelphia and asked the saints to share their thoughts. When it comes to things like where people should sit in the sanctuary and how many songs we should sing during praise and worship, most people were on one accord. We need unity and support in our congregations--but don't do too much, now! Neiko and Janisse Flowers share their opinions on testimonies and turning to your neighbor during service. Award-winning media personality Neiko Flowers had an interesting take on whether or not churches should add testimony service to the program: "Amen...but just not with social media being recorded. I think that's a problem today. A lot of things that should be private in church [aren't]. It gets to the point where there are things that you can share with your congregation [that are] now maximized to the audience...everybody. I love testimony service because it gets you vulnerable and transparent, but make sure to put some boundaries on it. Basically...the saints want to bring testimony service back...just keep it off the livestream. Find the And Let the Church Say Game here .

(AUG 12) A bittersweet moment! Almost 30 years and 8 albums later, gospel legend Donnie McClurkin has announced that he will be leaving the recording industry. McClurkin's self-titled first album, 'Donnie McClurkin', was released on October 29, 1996. Photo by Marty Jean-Louis / Headlinephotos The vocal powerhouse shared a warmhearted and jubilant video on his social media platform, encouraging his supporters to be on the lookout for a brand new musical project, entitled 'Finally'. He shared that the album will be his final recording, stating, "It is a work of love, saying thank you and farewell to the recording industry for leaving a mark that will glorify God." Social media users took to the comments to express their love and support for the artist and to celebrate his incredible legacy. RELATED: In the Church, We All Fam! Christian Public Figures You Didn't Know Were Related While many are excited to hear new music from Donnie McClurkin and grateful for his lasting musical contribution, he'll be greatly missed in the recording industry. Watch the video below: What do you think about this?

His latest single, 'Smile', pairs a smooth melody with soulful lyrics about love and relationships, reminiscent of R&B hits by legends like Al Green and The Isley Brothers. But DMV-based indie artist Steven Thad has solid roots in the church, and his passion for gospel music runs deep. Courtesy of Steven Thad A Church Kid at Heart Before forming the group 'Trilogy' with his sisters Sierra  and Shante,   Steven and his siblings would often harmonize with each other after choir rehearsals. They had success singing songs like their 2022 single, 'Jesus Loves Me,' and have many fond memories in church. Steven describes himself as a "kid who laughed at everything". He recalls a funny moment when a kid next to him fell asleep during Sunday service. Steven tried his best to catch him, but failed. Though unharmed, the boy's fall made a loud thumping sound that echoed through the quiet sanctuary. He woke up to find all his friends laughing at him after his head hit the wooden pew. Of course, Steven felt bad. But it was moments like this that helped foster a love for the community that a solid church family provides. Like many church kids, Steven was raised in a "Gospel-Only" household. It wasn't until he left for college that he developed an appreciation for other genres of music. Steven Thad's Musical Influences Steven grew up around award-winning musicians like Dana Sorey and Tye Tribbett, and credits them, along with his father, Stephen Leslie, who hung up his drumsticks to pursue a career in accounting, and now works as a successful CPA. "I wouldn't be the musician that I am...if it weren't for Tye, if it weren't for the choir GA, if it weren't for 'Soundcheck'," Steven admits. "I'm so grateful to have grown up in a time when they impressed upon me their innovation. Steven recognizes the impact that these influences had on his development. "What they did has not been replicated to this day. I think that people come close to it, but some things come once in a generation, once in a lifetime, and that was one of those moments. Even as a kid, I knew that." RELATED : Dana Sorey's 50th Birthday Concert Was a Spectacular Praise Party A "Not So Lowkey" Genuis Musicianship isn't the only thing Steven gained from the male examples in his life. He has also achieved extreme academic success. Steven graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. "It sounds complicated, but it's not as complicated as you think it is." Though skilled in both fields, Steven approaches music and science differently. "Doing what I'm doing as a solo artist is harder than bioengineering" , Steven explains. " There was always one answer. When you solve a mathematical equation, you're going to get the same answer each time." However, in Steven's eyes, the music business lacks the same consistency. He considers aspects like last-minute performance changes, posting on social media, and staying relevant to be far more overwhelming. "I think with music it's a lot more dynamic. I had to learn how to adjust" Giving Back to the Community Steven is a fan of early 2000's pop music and draws inspiration from skilled vocalists. He lists artists like Mary Mary and Beyoncé Knowles as examples of experts in their craft. In her 2025 book release, 'Matriarch: A Memoir,' Tina Knowles recounts a memory where she asked her daughter, Beyoncé, and the other members of Destiny's Child to help purchase vans for their church instead of spending all their money on new cars. When asked what he would buy for his church when he earns a big royalty check from his music, Steven responded that a scholarship specifically for Black women in STEM would be ideal. RELATED: 6 Christian Songs Sung by Kelly Rowland That You'll Love RELATED : Michelle Williams Says Her First Kiss & First Fight Were in Church "I know how important college is...and if there's any way that I can contribute to the advancement of my people," Steven states that he understands that higher education has historically been a means for us to get ahead and start building generational wealth for ourselves. "If there's any way I can help us do that, I would." Watch the full interview below:

William Murphy's new album release, 'Payback', will have you believing that God will do just what he said. Can I get an "amen"? Courtesy of Motown Music GRAMMY and Dove Award nominee and Stellar Award winner William Murphy returns with his powerful new live album, Payback (Live). Also known as "The Retribution Record," this body of work offers something for every generation, emphasizing that God ensures justice and restoration for His people. The album seamlessly blends soulful melodies with prophetic declarations,  f eaturing collaborations with artists such as Leandria Johnson and Y’anna Crawley. RELATED: Evvie McKinney & DOE Join Forces on New Anthem of Faith A NEW SOUND Though the album is laced with fresh worship anthems, long-time supporters of Murphy's career will be delighted to find that it includes 'Medley', which highlights new takes on classic hits like 'It's Working', 'Praise is What I Do', and 'Let It Rise'. William Murphy: "Your Next Days are Your Best Days" With its upbeat and declarative lyrics, the first track on the album, ' The Devil Didn't Get Away With It' is an anthem for listeners who are "sick and tired of the devil playing with you". It's the first of 12 uplifting tracks through which Murphy offers encouragement to those who have suffered spiritual attacks on their mental health, finances, or family. Song after song reminds listeners that they haven't seen their best days yet. Photo by Prince WIlliams / ATLpics.net The release of the album's premiere single, 'Double,' debuted in January of this year. It ranked #1 on the Mediabase Gospel Airplay chart. “This song is a testament to God’s faithfulness and His promise to restore and bless beyond measure,” shares William Murphy. “I hope ‘Double’ encourages everyone who hears it to hold on, stay faithful, and trust that greater is coming.” Strength in Mourning The 8th track of the album, 'Good Morning,' features a soulful groove that sings, "the weapon formed but didn't work," and references the latter portion of the Bible verse Psalms 30:5 ,  which reads, 'weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.' The lyrics ring true as a personal testimony of William Murphy, who announced the passing of his brother, Pastor DeJaughn William "Billy" Murphy, who transitioned after being ill for some time. The brothers collaborated on the 2022 release 'WOW', which was featured on Murphy's seventh solo album ' Worship & Justice'. Ministry in Action With over 20 years in ministry, Bishop William Murphy is the senior pastor at The dReam Center Church of Atlanta, alongside his wife, Pastor Danielle Murphy. The church recently led a weekly bible study series, 'Family First' which gives 12 steps to build strong families and better communities. Murphy teamed up with Celebs Give Back for their 2024 Christmas-On-Us Program , which supports families in need during the holiday season. Also an acclaimed author, Murphy’s works, like Praying Through It and the upcoming 52 Days devotional, offer spiritual guidance in worship and prayer. Spotify Album Playlist: YouTube Album Playlist:

I know that's right! Anike is glowing and showing how to walk in God's favor. She won Female Artist of the Year at the 2025 Black Christian Influencers Honors Ceremony, held in Atlanta, GA, on June 19. Photos by Kasim Wheeler for BlackChurchTok, David Mahone for Black Christian Influencers Afterward, she headed to the after-party to teach the saints her new single  'Watch Her Glow. ' The Reach Records artist did all this while being very pregnant and very blessed. Social media users commented in support of the artist, saying things like, "You better GLOW girl!" and "She really is like dattttt!" Isn't this impressive? Watch the performance below:

When it comes to dating and marriage, many church girls have strong opinions on whether or not they'd like to end up with a preacher or pastor for a future spouse. 'Stay With Me' songstress and 'The Voice UK' winner Annatoria is no exception. Courtesy of CR8 Agency BlackChurchTok played a round of 'Churchy Never Have I Ever' in the greenroom of the 2nd Annual Black Christian Influencers conference in Atlanta, GA. Annatoria jokingly shared her fondest and funniest church memories. Dating a fellow member of her local church isn't at the top of her concerns at the moment. She'd rather travel the world, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with her future beau. Annatoria has recently moved to Atlanta, and wants to experience a traditional "hand-clapping, foot-stopping" American Black church. Saints, do you think she'll have a good time?

Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac founded UNITUS, a faith-based apparel brand. He shared that the idea for the company came after consulting with his pastor, following Nike’s decision not to re-sign him after he tore his ACL. Photo by Marty Jean-Louis/Alamy Live News Taking his pastor’s advice, Isaac decided to launch his own clothing line, which led to the creation of UNITUS. All UNITUS shoes feature Bible verses, and Isaac’s testimony serves to inspire others to persevere through hardship and trust in God’s guidance. “I put my trust in Christ and put one foot in front of the other,” Isaac told FOX News . RELATED: Paige Bueckers Shares Top 3 Gospel Songs At 2025 WNBA Draft Jonathan Isaac's UNITUS was a sponsor of the 2025 Black Christian Influencers Conference All-Star Games.