Gospel Glory: The 2026 GRAMMY Gospel Nominees Shine Bright 

The Recording Academy has unveiled the nominees for the 2026 GRAMMY Awards, and gospel and Christian music are once again taking center stage. From household names like CeCe Winans to rising artists like Forrest Frank, this year’s nominations highlight the faith, creativity, and unity that continue to shape the genre.

A Night to Honor Faith Through Music

This year’s eligibility period covers music released between August 31, 2024, and August 30, 2025. The GRAMMY Awards will return to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on February 1, 2026, broadcast live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. The event promises to celebrate artistry across 95 categories, but for gospel fans, all eyes are on the four major faith-based categories.

CeCe Winans, a past GRAMMY winner and one of gospel’s most influential voices, was among those invited to help announce the nominations. Her presence reminded audiences that gospel remains not just a genre, but a ministry through music.

Best Gospel Performance/Song

This year’s gospel performance and song category is rich with power and emotion. Kirk Franklin’s “Do It Again” brings his signature energy and message of revival, while Tasha Cobbs Leonard joins John Legend for “Church,” blending soulful worship with contemporary style.

Other nominees include Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts for “Still Live,” Pastor Mike Jr. for his upbeat anthem “Amen,” and a special collaboration between CeCe Winans and Shirley Caesar on “Come Jesus Come.”

Each song stands as a testimony of faith — from praise to perseverance — proving once again how gospel music speaks directly to the heart.

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

In the contemporary Christian category, worship and innovation collide. Elevation Worship and Brandon Lake lead with “I Know a Name,” a moving declaration of faith. Forrest Frank’s chart-topping hit “Your Way’s Better” also earned a nod, solidifying his growing influence as one of the new generation’s faith leaders in music.

Other highlights include Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll’s “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” a song that captures the raw emotion of redemption, and Lecrae’s collaboration with Killer Mike and T.I. on “Headphones,” blending hip-hop and hope in a unique way. PJ Morton and Darrel Walls close the list with “Amazing,” a soulful worship song that resonates with gratitude and grace.

Best Gospel Album

For full-length releases, the nominees reflect both tradition and innovation. Yolanda Adams returns with Sunny Days, while *Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s self-titled album showcases her unmatched worship leadership. Tamela Mann’s Live Breathe Fight continues her legacy of heartfelt praise, and Tye Tribbett’s Only on the Road Live captures his dynamic energy in concert. Rounding out the list is Heart of Mine by Darrel Walls and PJ Morton, blending R&B textures with spiritual depth.

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

This year’s contemporary Christian album nominees are a diverse and inspiring mix. Forrest Frank returns with Child of God II, following the success of his debut album. Israel & New Breed’s Coritos Vol. 1 celebrates worship with a global sound, while Brandon Lake’s King of Hearts brings a personal and intimate reflection on faith. Lecrae offers deep storytelling and spiritual renewal with Reconstruction, and Tauren Wells lifts congregations worldwide with Let the Church Sing.

Best Roots Gospel Album

For fans of traditional gospel sounds, the roots category brings pure inspiration. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s I Will Not Be Moved (Live) leads the pack, joined by the Gaither Vocal Band with Then Came the Morning. The Isaacs’ Praise & Worship: More Than a Hollow Hallelujah and Karen Peck & New River’s Good Answers celebrate Southern harmonies and heartfelt praise. Candi Staton rounds out the list with Back to My Roots, a soulful nod to her gospel beginnings.

Faith Takes Center Stage

As the final voting begins in December, one thing is clear: gospel and Christian music continue to move hearts far beyond the church pew. Each artist, whether new or legendary, shares a message that points upward — reminding the world that music rooted in faith never fades.