From Gospel Music Association

This past weekend, as America celebrated its 250th anniversary, Christian music took center stage in the nation's capital.

The 2026 BET Awards aired live on Sunday, June 28th, with some of gospel and Christian hip-hop's biggest acts being celebrated throughout the night.

Five-time GMA Dove Award-nominated, RIAA Gold and Platinum-selling songwriter and producer David Spencer has re-signed an exclusive publishing deal with Essential Music Publishing, extending a long-standing partnership as he continues a run of chart success, major sync placements, and high-profile upcoming releases.

Bethel Music’s annual Worship School has officially sold out for the second consecutive year, with nearly 900 worship leaders, songwriters, musicians, and creatives expected to gather July 13-17 at Bethel Church in Redding, California. For those unable to attend in person, the ministry is offering its Online Watch Pass allowing participants around the world to experience the event live and on demand.

This week, Christian hip hop fans have a reason to celebrate a blast from the past. Dove Award-winning rap veterans Grits received news that their song, “Ooh Ahh (My Life Be Like)," featuring TobyMac, has officially received RIAA Double-Platinum certification.

Award-winning gospel industry veteran Earnest Pugh will be celebrated as an honoree at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, recognizing his profound contributions as an inspirational and transformative songwriter. Pugh is set to receive the prestigious BMI Trailblazer Award honor following the massive success of his fifth Billboard No. 1 single, “Don’t Give Up.”

CCM Magazine has unveiled Ben Fuller as the cover artist for its July 2026 issue, celebrating one of Christian music’s most compelling voices with an exclusive feature that explores the remarkable redemption story behind his music and ministry.

As Black Music Month comes to a close, we had the chance to sit down with gospel music trailblazer Hezekiah Walker to hear about his personal history with Black music and the enduring significance of gospel music today. 

Following a breakout year and a successful spring headlining run that connected with audiences across the country, Christian music artist Megan Woods is bringing The Truth Tour back this fall for an expanded 30-city run across the US.

Christian hip hop artist Miles Minnick is making history! He was recently named to XXL’s 2026 Freshman Class, making him the first openly Christian hip-hop artist to be included on the list.

North Chapel Music has announced the signing of acclaimed singer-songwriter Lauren Mascitti to an exclusive publishing agreement, visit their site to see the complete roster of award-winning songwriters.

As anticipation reaches its peak just days before the release of their new album Forever Now – out this Friday, June 26 – GRAMMY-winning rock band Switchfoot was invited to make their Grand Ole Opry debut on July 23. The surprise was made extra special by longtime friends, the Jonas Brothers, sharing the news with Switchfoot during their recent appearance on the iHeartPodcast, “Hey Jonas!,” out now on the iHeartRadio app and anywhere podcasts are heard. Watch the episode here.