Gospel music has done our culture good over the past century, providing melodic inspiration to get through some our toughest mental battles and touching our souls by way of some of the most dynamic voices you’ll ever hear. From the pioneering days of Mahalia Jackson and the pen game of Thomas Andrew Dorsey to the ones we consider legends today like The Clark Sisters, Yolanda Adams, Mary, Mary — shoutout to our girl, Erica Campbell! — and Kirk Franklin to name a few, it’s a genre of music you simply can’t help but love regardless of denomination.
With the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music making its way to Nashville in August 2025, we couldn’t think of a better way to show our appreciation for the genre than by taking a look at compelling new voices carrying it to new heights for the next generation.
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When looking at the state of contemporary gospel music, it’s clear to see that future legends are quickly on the rise. Borrowing inspiration from the ones who came before and oftentimes even collaborating alongside them, many new acts to the game of gospel are making sure to add their own fresh spins while still enforcing the core message that’s been clear since the beginning: God is the greatest love. Of the many fresh faces to pop up at the Dove and Stellar Awards over the past few years, there’s no denying a handful are leading the pack in being a messenger of His word.
These are the artists who younger worshippers are turning to for guidance in battling the temptations of a secular world and struggles with their faith in general being that it’s coming from a voice closer to their generational experiences. Some are utilizing even more modern elements from hip-hop and R&B that could even compete (and has been!) with a few top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
We’ve got love for all those currently making gospel music on any level, but take a look at these 10 rising stars in specific who we seriously recommend adding to your Sunday cleaning playlist if you haven’t already.
Allow us to put you on to 10 contemporary gospel stars who you need to have on your radar, and feel free to find us on social media to sound off with a few of your own favorites:
DOE
If you loved her as part of Forever Jones, her solo career will be a pleasant surprise.
Jekalyn Carr
It was amazing to finally see her achieve GRAMMY gold earlier this year in winning “Best Gospel Performance/Song” alongside Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell, Israel Houghton and Jonathan McReynolds with their collaboration, “One Hallelujah.”
Todd Galberth
Those who were lucky enough to attend his live taping of Greater earlier this month at Redemption Church Greenville know exactly what we’re talking about.
Naomi Raine
Whether it’s with Maverick City Music or in her own right, we simply can’t get enough of her voice.
Melvin Crispell III
From a summer tour scheduled to the high anticipation for a follow-up to last year’s well-received EP, Covered Vol.1, our guy Melvin is the man of the hour.
Annatoria
Major points for putting an innovative spin on gospel music by way of introducing elements of Afrobeats and Amapiano to the mix.
Enrique Holmes
Last year’s release of You’re Gonna See It (Live) was a testament to his capabilities when it involves carrying the stage of worship for well over two hours.
Pastor Mike Jr.
From his exuberant energy to clever lyricism for the Lord, there’s no surprise that Pastor Mike has grown into the fan-favorite of gospel.
Tye Tribbett
We can’t wait to see how his star continues to rise following yet another big win at the 2024 GRAMMYs!
Kierra Sheard
Building a full lifestyle brand from cooking to mentorship for women (see: SistHER Inc.), Kierra is reshaping what it means to be a gospel star.
