Grammy Winners Give a Global Stage for the Gospel

The Grammys, or as we call them, the mainstream Dove Awards, were held over the weekend, and the Recording Academy once again crowned new favorites in Christian and Gospel music. In a year marked by Forrest Frank, one of the leading contenders, deciding to skip both the Doves and the Grammys, it felt like more attention was brought to these categories than ever before.

Regardless of who won, the breakout star in the name of Jesus was undoubtedly Jelly Roll, who took a night filled with politically charged speeches and turned everyone’s eyes toward Christ.

“I know they’re going to try to kick me off here, so just let me try to get this out. First of all, Jesus, I hear you and I’m listening, Lord. I am listening, Lord.”

After discussing his time in prison, Jelly Roll lifted up a pocket-sized Bible and declared, “There was a moment in my life that all I had was a Bible this big and a radio the same size and a 6-by-8-foot cell. And I believe that those two things could change my life. I believe that music had the power to change my life. And God had the power to change my life… I want to tell y’all right now, Jesus is for everybody,” he added. “Jesus is not owned by one political party. Jesus is not owned by no music label. Jesus is Jesus, and anybody can have a relationship with Him. I love you, Lord.”

Trevor Noah quickly responded that his mom would certainly love the show. I’m sure many moms agreed with Ms. Noah.

Though Jelly Roll’s speech may have taken center stage, let’s break down some of the big winners in our world.

Best Gospel Performance/Song

“Come Jesus Come” — CeCe Winans featuring Shirley Caesar

The Queen of Christian music continues her reign, taking home her 18th Grammy Award. She now holds the title of the third most awarded female artist of all time, behind only Beyoncé and Alison Krauss.

“This moment isn’t just about an award” says Winans “it’s about creating songs that bring hope and encouragement. Knowing that the music continues to reach hearts across generations reminds me why I do this. I’m thankful to God, Pastor Ceasar, the writers and every listener who streams, sings along, and finds strength through my songs. That is the real blessing.”

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song

“Hard Fought Hallelujah” — Brandon Lake with Jelly Roll; Chris Brown, Steven Furtick, Benjamin William Hastings, Jason Bradley Deford & Brandon Lake, songwriters

In a packed category featuring Lecrae, Forrest Frank, Elevation Worship, and Darrel Walls, it was no surprise to see Brandon Lake and the aforementioned Jelly Roll take home the award for the blockbuster hit “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

Though an argument could certainly be made for the virally of “YOUR WAYS BETTER” and the artistry of Headphones, the cross-cultural impact of “Hard Fought Hallelujah” feels like a once-in-a-generation moment. I’m glad Grammy voters recognized it.

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

Coritos Vol. 1 — Israel & New Breed

Congratulations are in order for Israel & New Breed. I’ll be honest, I didn’t see this one coming. It was a tightly packed category that could have easily splintered votes.

Israel Houghton has long been a known entity, and that name recognition certainly doesn’t hurt when it comes to Grammy awards. I’ve probably spent the least time with this record, and maybe I need to give it another listen. At the end of the day, that should be the point of these awards, to elevate artists who earn the recognition of their peers, and in doing so, introduce more meaningful art to the world.

The other nominees need to get their flowers:

Lecrae’s Reconstruction is a career-defining masterpiece.

Brandon Lake’s King of Hearts featured all-time classics we’ll be singing for years.

Forrest Frank’s CHILD OF GOD II bucked the system and captured the hearts of countless young listeners at a time when Christian music often felt laser-focused on one demographic.

Tauren Wells’ Let the Church Sing created a songbook for a new wave of worship.

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The awards themselves aren’t the point, it’s the opportunity to showcase the name of Jesus on a global stage that should be celebrated.

Though Brandon Lake and company were part of the pre-telecast ceremony, I’m grateful the Recording Academy continues to recognize why distinct Christian and Gospel categories matter.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. We’ll see you at the K-LOVE Fan Awards.