The 2026 GRAMMY Awards have once again recognized the artists whose music inspires and uplifts people across the globe, highlighting the powerful role of faith-based storytelling in modern music.
This year’s nominees in the Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music categories demonstrate the strength of vocals, creativity, and the spiritual messages that continue to resonate deeply with audiences everywhere.
In the category of Best Gospel Performance/Song, Kirk Franklin has been nominated for his uplifting track “Do It Again”, a song that has touched listeners with its message of hope and perseverance.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard and John Legend, along with a team of talented songwriters including Anthony S. Brown, Brune Charles, Annatoria Chitapa, Kenneth Leonard Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Jonas Myrin, have received a nomination for “Church”, a powerful anthem that celebrates community and faith.
Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts are also nominated for “Still (Live)”, a moving performance co-written with Delagra Entiss, Dlo_the_Great, Orlando Joel Palmer, and Terrell Demetrius Wilson, which captures the emotional depth and authenticity of gospel music.
Pastor Mike Jr. has been recognized for “Amen”, co-written with Adia Sings, Michael McClure Jr., David Lamar Outing II, and Terrell Anthony Pettus, while CeCe Winans featuring Pastor Caesar earned a nomination for “Come Jesus Come”, further underscoring the spiritual impact of contemporary gospel performances.
The Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song category includes artists who blend worship, modern sounds, and heartfelt lyrics to inspire listeners. Elevation Worship, Chris Brown, and Brandon Lake, working alongside songwriters Hank Bentley, Steven Furtick, Brandon Lake, and Jacob Sooter, have been nominated for “I Know A Name”, a song that combines emotional resonance with energetic worship.
Hi Forrest, along with songwriters Forrest Frank and Pera Krstajic, received recognition for “YOUR WAY’S BETTER”, while Brandon Lake with Jellyroll and their co-writers Chris Brown, Jason Bradley Deford, Steven Furtick, Benjamin William Hastings, and Brandon Lake earned a nomination for “Hard Foughtt Hallelujah”.
The dynamic collaboration of Lecrae, Killer Mike, and Tip, with songwriters Bongo By The Way, Clifford Harris, William Roderick Miller, Lecrae Moore, Michael Render, and Tyshane Thompson, also stands out for “Headphones”, and Musiq City with PJ Morton has been nominated for the inspirational track “Amazing”.
In the Best Gospel Album category, nominees showcase a range of full-length projects that highlight the depth and versatility of gospel music today. Yolanda Adams’ ‘Sunny Days’ and Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s ‘Tasha’ reflect the rich tradition of gospel, while Tamela Mann’s live recording ‘Live Breathe Fight’ and Tye Tribbett’s ‘Only On The Road (Live)’ capture the energy and communal experience of live worship.
Darrel Walls and PJ Morton’s collaborative album ‘Heart Of Mine’ further demonstrates the creative possibilities when artists merge spiritual conviction with modern musical expression.
Many nominees have expressed their gratitude and excitement across social media, celebrating the recognition of their work and the impact their music has had on fans worldwide. Jonathan McReynolds posted a heartfelt response, expressing joy with the emojis, while Adia Sings shared “Honored”, reflecting both humility and enthusiasm.
As the 2026 GRAMMY Awards ceremony approaches, fans and music lovers alike eagerly anticipate which of these extraordinary artists will take home the coveted awards, celebrating the enduring power of music that both inspires and comforts.
Kirk Franklin
Tasha Cobbs
Jonathan McReynolds
Pastor Mike Jr.
Cece Winans