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DOE EARNS HER FIRST GRAMMY AWARD

By
Sarah Hearn
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Acclaimed singer, songwriter, and worship leader DOE JONES has officially won her first GRAMMY Award, marking a major milestone in her already celebrated career. The award was announced at the 67th GRAMMY Awards ceremony, in which she earned Best Contemporary Christian Album of the Year for her sophomore effort, Heart Of A Human.

“I am beyond grateful to God, my family, my team, and my followers for their continued love and support,” shares DOE. “This moment is surreal, and I pray that my music continues to inspire and uplift hearts around the world.”

DOE’s win comes as a testament to her powerful songwriting, heartfelt performances, and unwavering commitment to sharing her faith through music. Her award-winning project, Heart Of A Human, has resonated deeply with listeners, earning critical and commercial success in the Gospel and Christian music community. The album follows her debut, 2022’s Clarity.

HEART OF A HUMAN is a soul-stirring musical journey that combines heartfelt lyrics with soulful melodies, highlighting the culmination of faith, self-reflection, and resilience. With a tracklist that is a testament to DOE’s versatility and depth, “Breathe” is a song that encourages the importance of pausing and finding strength in moments of self-reflection; “So Glad We Met”, is a powerful anthem meant to encourage and empower and uplift those who may be struggling with the idea of giving up, while “God Is In Control” delivers a powerful message of faith and surrender. The album also includes the bop “So What (feat. Lecrae),” the spiritually charged “Holy Hands,” and the hip-hop fused “Lead Us Again.”

DOE first gained national recognition as a member of the gospel group Forever JONES before launching her solo career. Since then, she has captivated audiences with her unique blend of contemporary worship, gospel, and soulful melodies. Her artistry and authenticity have earned her a devoted following, multiple award nominations and wins, and now, the highest honor in the music industry—her first GRAMMY win.

The win further solidifies DOE’s place as a leading voice in modern Christian music. In her illustrious career to date, DOE has achieved three No. 1 singles (“Brighter,” “When I Pray,” and “Cuán Bueno”).

Follow DOE on social media using the handle @DoeJonesMusic.

ABOUT DOE

Between the purity of her vocals, intuitive lyrics, and soul-captivating sound, the six-time GRAMMY® nominated and two-time GMA Dove Award-winning singer-songwriter-musician DOE is poised to usher in a new era of gospel/inspirational music that transcends traditional perceptions.

Music fans first heard DOE’s multifaceted talent in October 2020 with the release of her self-titled EP, which features the No. 1 hit Gospel radio single “Brighter.” The EP was released under Gospel star Jonathan McReynolds’ Life Room Label in partnership with RCA Inspiration.

In 2022, she welcomed everyone into her fearless world with her full-length debut album, Clarity (RCA Inspiration/Life Room Label), which includes “So Good,” “What I’m Waiting For” and her No. 1 single “When I Pray.” Also an accomplished guitarist, DOE wrote all of the eleven songs on Clarity and co-produced a few of the songs.

Raised in a musical family, DOE – born Dominique Jones – began performing professionally as a teen in the Christian Gospel septet Forever Jones, which featured DOE with her parents, her two sisters, and two brothers. The group released three albums and garnered two GRAMMY Award nominations and multiple Stellar and Dove Award nominations. Find out more about DOE by visiting her website DoeJonesMusic.com

CeCe Winans Wins Big as Gospel Artists Celebrate Grammy Wins

By
Sarah Hearn
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The 2025 Grammy Awards proved to be a monumental night for gospel music, with several artists taking home prestigious awards. CeCe Winans emerged as one of the biggest winners, taking home Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance Song for “That’s My King” and Best Gospel Album for “More Than This.” The wins added to her illustrious career with multiple accolades that highlighted her powerful vocals and inspirational messages. Her latest album, praised for its soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, resonated with both fans and critics alike.

Other gospel artists also celebrated victories, showcasing the genre’s enduring impact on the music industry. The night reaffirmed the gospel’s ability to uplift, inspire, and connect audiences worldwide. Here are the gospel winners as well as the nominees in each category:

Best Gospel Performance/Song

“Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams; Sir William James Baptist & Donald Lawrence, songwriters

“Yesterday” — Melvin Crispell III

“Hold On (Live)” — Ricky Dillard

“Holy Hands” — DOE; Jesse Paul Barrera, Jeffrey Castro Bernat, Dominique Jones, Timothy Ferguson, Kelby Shavon Johnson, Jr., Jonathan McReynolds, Rickey Slikk Muzik Offord & Juan Winans, songwriters

“One Hallelujah” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell & Israel Houghton Featuring Jonathan McReynolds & Jekalyn Carr; G. Morris Coleman, Israel Houghton, Kenneth Leonard, Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Naomi Raine, songwriters – WINNER

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Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

“Holy Forever (Live)” — Bethel Music, Jenn Johnson Featuring CeCe Winans

“Praise” — Elevation Worship Featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore; Pat Barrett, Chris Brown, Cody Carnes, Steven Furtick, Brandon Lake & Chandler Moore, songwriters

“Firm Foundation (He Won’t)” — Honor & Glory Featuring Disciple

“In The Name Of Jesus” — JWLKRS Worship & Maverick City Music Featuring Chandler Moore; Austin Armstrong, Ran Jackson, Chandler Moore, Sajan Nauriyal, Ella Schnacky, Noah Schnacky & Ilya Toshinskiy, songwriters

“In The Room” — Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore Featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard; G. Morris Coleman, Tasha Cobbs Leonard & Naomi Raine, songwriters

“That’s My King” — CeCe Winans; Taylor Agan, Kellie Gamble, Llyod Nicks & Jess Russ, songwriters – WINNER

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Best Gospel Album

Covered Vol. 1 — Melvin Crispell III

Choirmaster II (Live) — Ricky Dillard

Father’s Day — Kirk Franklin

Still Karen — Karen Clark Sheard

More Than This — CeCe Winans – WINNER

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Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

Heart Of A Human — DOE – WINNER

When Wind Meets Fire — Elevation Worship

Child Of God — Forrest Frank

Coat Of Many Colors — Brandon Lake

The Maverick Way Complete — Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore

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Best Roots Gospel Album

The Gospel Sessions, Vol 2 — Authentic Unlimited

The Gospel According To Mark — Mark D. Conklin

Rhapsody — The Harlem Gospel Travelers

Church — Cory Henry – WINNER

Loving You — The Nelons

To see the full list of nominees, visit 2025 GRAMMYs: See The Full Winners & Nominees List | GRAMMY.com

Gospel Superfest returns Baltimore

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Sarah Hearn
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Gospel Superfest will return to Baltimore, Maryland, this spring to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

This year’s event will be hosted by actress Vivica A. Fox at Morgan State University on Saturday, June 7th, 2025. The celebration will honor the rich legacy of gospel music with a night of music, worship, and inspiration. Gospel artists confirmed for the event so far include Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker, and more.

The live recording will be held on the campus of Morgan State University at the Murphy Fine Arts Center.  Tickets for the event will go on sale Thursday, February 6  @ 10 a.m. EST

Upcoming ticket sale information can be found HERE.

James Hall to BeHonored at Prestigious 2025 Soar Awards

By
Sarah Hearn
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The 2025 Soar Awards will take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, bringing together gospel music’s finest for an unforgettable evening of celebration and inspiration. Organizers, along with local dignitaries and Hard Rock Casino Rockford employees and guests, gathered at the venue Wednesday to share the exciting announcement. One of the evening’s biggest honors will be bestowed upon James Hall, the internationally renowned choirmaster, professor, and music visionary.

Known for his groundbreaking work in gospel music and choir direction, Hall’s legacy continues to shape the genre and inspire generations of artists and worshippers. A pioneering force in gospel music, Hall is the leader of the gospel choir Worship and Praise. He debuted in 1995 with God Is in Control, followed by King of Glory that same year.

In 1997, he returned with, According to James Hall, Chapter 3. On March 24, 1998, Worship & Praise made history as the first gospel choir ever to record live at New York’s renowned Lincoln Center; the resulting performance was issued on CD that summer, followed later that same year by Messiah.

Hall continued his influential career with albums such as We Celebrate Christmas with James Hall (1999) and We Are at War (2001), which reached the upper echelons of the Billboard Gospel albums chart. In 2006, Hall released Voices of the Citadel via his own Music Blend Records, followed by Live at the Foxwoods (2007). His later projects, Trip Down Memory Lane (2012) and New Era (2015), both released by Entertainment One, shot to the top of the Billboard Gospel charts.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be recognized by the Soar Awards,” said Hall. “Gospel music has been my life’s work, and to be celebrated among so many talented individuals is a blessing beyond words.”

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara expressed his enthusiasm about hosting the prestigious event in the city. “This marks an exciting and special occasion for Rockford,” said McNamara. “The Soar Awards are a phenomenal celebration of gospel music’s finest. We are truly privileged to have this incredible event in our community.”

Alongside Hall, the 2025 Soar Awards will also honor Producer Percy Gray, acclaimed author Kimberla Lawson Roby, and NBA superstar Fred VanVleet, with a special musical tribute dedicated to the late Big Jim Wright. Event organizers are encouraging all music lovers to be a part of this historic night.

“We ask that people join us here,” said Rebecca Francis, Vice President of the Soar Awards. “It doesn’t matter what you look like. It doesn’t matter what culture you come from or what background. I don’t care. Music speaks to everybody.”

Tickets for the Soar Awards are available now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Tauren Wells Invites Listeners Into A Sacred Space of Worship With New Single ‘Thank You For The Cross’

By
Sarah Hearn
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Today, multi-Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling artist Tauren Wells unveils his new single, “Thank You For The Cross. ” This deeply reverent and soul-stirring worship anthem reflects on Jesus’ sacrifice and the transformative power of His love. Marking another compelling entry in Wells’ growing catalog of worship-driven music, the song delivers an intimate yet powerful expression of gratitude and surrender. Listen HERE.

“At the center of our redemption story stands the cross and in its shadow the countless souls saved by the Savior that hung upon it. When I think about what that means for me personally, the reality that Jesus truly paid it all for me, I can’t help but worship and thank him. I pray that this song helps put words around your gratitude for the ultimate act of love and sacrifice Jesus embraced for you,” said Tauren.

With tender piano melodies and soaring instrumentation, “Thank You For The Cross” builds from a place of quiet reflection into a stirring declaration of faith. The track’s heartfelt lyrics—“Hallelujah to the Lamb / Who took my place, who knows my name”—capture the depth of Wells’ worshipful spirit, inviting listeners into a moment of awe and reverence.

As co-lead pastor of Church of Whitestone in Austin, Texas—a house of worship he founded alongside his wife, Lorna—Wells continues to draw inspiration from his ministry and the power of communal faith. His new music reflects this journey, incorporating deeply personal reflections on God’s grace and the profound peace found in surrender.

Following the massive success of his record-breaking single “Take It All Back,” which has amassed over 108 million global streams, “Thank You For The Cross” joins Tauren’s most recent track, “Making Room,” in showcasing his signature blend of contemporary Christian, gospel, and pop influences. With seven No. 1 hits and over 1.2 billion streams globally, Wells continues to captivate audiences with his soul-stirring lyrics, electrifying performances, and unwavering commitment to faith-driven music.

“Thank You For The Cross” is just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative year for Wells, who is also preparing to release his debut book and expand his impact through his ministry and podcast, The High Note.

Martha Munizzi Releases New Music

By
Sarah Hearn
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Martha Munizzi, a Grammy Award®, Dove, and 4X Stellar Award-winning Worship Leader, Singer-Songwriter, and Recording Artist, is set to release her newest single, “He’s In Control,” Friday, Jan 31st, from her forthcoming album, “Church Is Revival,” recorded LIVE at Full Sail University and produced by David “DLO” Outing.

Known for her timeless contributions to Gospel music with hits like “Glorious” and “Because of Who You Are,” Munizzi is back with a powerful message of hope, renewal, and faith through her upcoming album, “Church Is Revival,” set to release in Spring 2025.

The album’s debut single, “He’s In Control,” is already making waves with its anthemic reminder of God’s sovereignty during life’s uncertainties. Born out of a personal season of loss, Munizzi describes the song as a source of comfort and assurance:

“This song reminded me to trust Jesus during one of the most difficult seasons of my life. It’s my prayer that it will bring that same peace to listeners everywhere.”

Recorded live at Full Sail University in Orlando, FL, “Church Is Revival” is more than an album; it’s a movement calling believers back to the core of faith—active church participation and personal revival. In her own words, Munizzi challenges listeners to reimagine the power of gathering: “Faithful, consistent church attendance should be a non-negotiable. It’s not just for convenience—it’s for transformation. Revival begins when we come together. The Bible commands us to gather together and I believe if we would take this simple step, true revival will sweep the nation and impact our world.”

As co-pastor of EpicLife Church in Orlando, Florida, alongside her husband, Dan, Munizzi’s past decade of pastoral leadership adds a rich depth to her music. Her reflections on shepherding a congregation through life’s highs and lows shape the heartfelt lyrics and powerful melodies that define the new project.

With “Church is Revival,” Munizzi hopes to inspire personal revival with listeners, leading to a corporate return of the people of God to the church at large. Confident in the release’s timing, Munizzi looks forward to sharing the sentiments of the song and album with believers everywhere, deepening the cross-cultural and multigenerational impact that has endeared her to the gospel music and global faith community.

You can DOWNLOAD the new single NOW HERE and it will be released on all digital music outlets on January 31st, 2025. The full-length “Church Is Revival” album will be available this Spring on all global digital, streaming, and physical retail outlets. “He’s In Control” is also impacting Gospel radio now across the country.

Ron Woods and AHOP Release Spirited New Single ‘It’s That Time’

By
Sarah Hearn
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Bishop Ron Woods is a pastor, author, teacher, recording artist, and producer. He is currently the senior pastor of the AHOP Church Chicago. He and his powerful music ministry have recorded a live album and released the first single, “It’s That Time.”

“It’s That Time” is a high-octane, churchy track taken from the biblical reference to a seed in the ground, which refers to planting the seed of God’s word in your heart. Your heart is the soil, where it can grow and produce spiritual fruit. Ron Woods and AHOP’s new single is a proclamation that it is time to harvest quality fruit from the seeds you’ve sown.

“It’s That Time is a song to encourage the church that their labor is not in vain,” says Bishop Woods. “It’s seed time, and it’s Harvest Time. It’s That Time!”

“It’s That Time” is available on all digital music outlets. The single is the pre-cursor to Woods’ and AHOP’s forthcoming live album, which will be released later this year. “It’s That Time” is written by Woods, produced by Curtis Lindsey, and released on Kingdom Records. The single is also impacting Gospel radio now.

Bishop Woods has previously released powerful singles as a solo artist – “Water Walkers” (2019), “Way Maker” (2016), and “I’m Blessed” (2014). The anointing from Bishop Woods and AHOP emanates throughout their worship services and every musical recording released.

Additionally, Bishop Woods is known for his work in communities across America and efforts on Capital Hill in Iowa and Washington, DC, for the fight against hunger, homelessness, predatory lending, and unfair incarceration of minorities and women. His work includes collaborations with The Family Leader, The NAACP, Drake University, The YMCA, and Wells Fargo Diversity Division. Bishop Woods has been featured on Fox TV Networks, The Word Network, and TBN and is the former co-host of It’s A New Day Today on The Impact Network. He is the author of I Worship: A Practical Guide to a Lifestyle of Worship and is working to complete his Master of Divinity at Virginia Union University.

Isaiah D. Thomas, Noted Gospel Artist Passes Away

By
Sarah Hearn
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Isaiah D. Thomas paased away

The DMV gospel community was rocked when renowned gospel musician, producer, and songwriter Isaiah D. Thomas passed away on January 27, 2025. A pillar in the gospel music community, Thomas was known for his distinctive sound, passionate worship, and commitment to musical excellence. His impact on the genre, particularly within the DMV area, was profound and far-reaching.

In 2007, Thomas achieved a major milestone when his song “I Will Bless the Lord,” recorded by Byron Cage, earned him his first Stellar Award for Song of the Year. His success continued in 2008 when he won another Stellar Award with his group, Elements of Praise (EOP), for Contemporary Choir of the Year. EOP, a powerful ensemble of gospel artists from the DMV who, became known for their soul-stirring performances and dynamic vocal arrangements.

Reflecting on his journey in a 2011 interview with ChristianMusic.com, Thomas recalled how he unexpectedly stepped into the role of a singer at the age of 20. “I didn’t think I could sing,” he admitted. However, when a scheduled singer failed to show up for a recording session, he was encouraged to step in. “I sang … and I’ve been singing ever since.” This moment marked the beginning of a celebrated career that inspired countless gospel artists and worshipers alike.

Thomas released several albums throughout his career, including Pray Everything Will Be Alright, Isaiah D. Thomas & The E.O.P. Live! PT. 1, The Greatest, and I Dare You. His treasure trove of songs includes fan favorites such as “Said He Would Be With Me.” Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from friends, fellow musicians, and admirers across the gospel music world:

“Nobody could groove quite like Isaiah Donnell Thomas. He epitomized the DC Gospel Sound and contributed to projecting it across the USA and the world. His unwavering commitment to musical excellence led him as far as Prague, Czechia, to add strings to his projects—a testament to his dedication and artistry.” – Phillip Carter, The DMV Musicians and Singers Fellowship

“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Isaiah Thomas. His music will forever resonate in our churches and hearts.” – Charles Butler, Jr.

“Isaiah D. Thomas made a tremendous impact on my life and the ministry of Chester Burke Jr & Company. His music and legacy will continue to live on in all of our hearts.” – Chester Burke, Jr.

“Isaiah was a phenomenal talent and a good brother. Prayers lifted for his family and for all those impacted by the light of his life and ministry.” – Ron Eliot Briggs

“One of the best friends and tightest producers I have ever worked with, always a smile on his face and positive words to leave you with.” – Lionel Green

Beyond his contributions to gospel music, Thomas served as a musician at New Samaritan Baptist Church and was an alumnus of the prestigious Duke Ellington School of the Arts. His influence extended beyond the church and recording studio, inspiring generations of gospel artists and musicians.

Funeral arrangements are pending as family, friends, and the gospel community mourn the loss of a remarkable artist whose music and ministry will continue to uplift hearts for years to come.

Bowie State University Voices of Freedom Concert set to celebrate Black History Month

By
Sarah Hearn
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Bowie State University will celebrate Black History Month with the Voices of Freedom Black History Concert on Monday, February 17th, at 6:00 p.m. The event will celebrate Black history, culture, and heritage, brought to life through the universal language of music. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with inspiring performances by renowned artists and talented choirs.

Headlining the concert are two gospel music legends, John P. Kee and Maurette Brown Clark. Known for their soulful voices and, their performances promise to inspire and uplift the audience as they honor the rich legacy of Black history.

Adding to the evening’s grandeur will be the harmonious voices of the U.S. Naval Academy Gospel Choir, known for their dynamic and captivating performances. The Bowie State Concert Choir, showcasing the exceptional talent of Bowie State University students, will also take the stage.

The event will be hosted by Phillip Carter, a Stellar Award-winning artist whose passion for gospel music and engaging personality will guide the evening’s program. Tickets for the event are available now. The event will occur on the Bowie State University campus in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center Auditorium, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD. 20715-9465.

Click here to purchase your tickets. For additional information, contact Professor Brandon Felder at felder@bowiestate.edu.

Madontrenique ‘Mona’ Fenner Releases Single and Official Music Video

By
Sarah Hearn
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Madontrenigue Fenner‘s true love is singing. Madontrenique, affectionately known as Mona, has an anointed voice that has taken her across the United States to world-famous stages like The Apollo Theater and internationally to Stockholm, Sweden, to the Gospel Festival. She released her debut single, “Troubles Don’t Last Always,” in 2021. She returns to offer a new high-praise single, “I’m Still Here.”

“I’m Still Here is my testimony of God’s love, grace, faithfulness, and mighty power,” Mona shares. “This healing, revival, and restoration song will prompt flashbacks of how the Lord kept you through storms. When you wanted to quit, God said He would keep you. So, when you hear this song – lift your hands and thank God for keeping you.”

“I’m Still Here” is written and produced by Riccol Johnson for Jizzlejamz Music. The single is available on all digital music outlets released by Revival Music Company. Additionally, Mona has released the official music video on YouTube. The “I’m Still Here” video finds Mona’s concentration interrupted by memories of life challenges and trials. Reflecting on the goodness of God brings her back to a powerful presentation and ministry moment of “I’m Still Here.”

Mona’s lifestyle of worship is expressed through powerful songs like “I’m Still Here.” Mona told God YES and continues to let God order her steps in her new season and journey.

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