[Left: Brad O'Donnell, Middle: Koryn Hawthorne, Right: Walter Thomas]

July 9, 2026 // Motown Gospel, a division of Capitol Christian Music Group, Capitol Records and Universal Music Group, announces the signing of GRAMMY-nominated artist Koryn Hawthorne, marking an exciting new chapter for one of Gospel music's most dynamic contemporary voices. Read more about in Billboard exclusive here: https://www.billboard.com/pro/koryn-hawthorne-signs-motown-gospel/

"I'm really grateful for this new chapter with Motown Gospel and Capitol CMG," says Koryn Hawthorne on the signing. "I've been blessed to do a lot in my career already, but I still feel like I'm just getting started in so many ways. I've grown as an artist, as a woman and in my faith, and I wanted to be in a place that understood all of that. This partnership feels aligned with where I am now and where I am headed next."

The news arrives as Hawthorne prepares to release new music and step into a renewed creative season. This fall, she will release her first project with Motown Gospel: a forthcoming EP, with music executive produced by J. White Did It, known for his work with Doechii, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, JT, and Yung Miami. The project showcases a fresh, elevated sound while staying true to the faith-centered message that has made Hawthorne a standout voice.

"Koryn Hawthorne is one of the most compelling and distinctive voices in Gospel music and we're thrilled to welcome her to Motown Gospel and CCMG," says Brad O'Donnell, President, Capitol Christian Music Group. "She's an artist with vision, purpose and a deep connection to her fans and that is exactly the kind of artist we love to work with. We're honored to partner with her in this next chapter of her career."

Walter Thomas, EVP of Motown Gospel & TAMLA Records on the signing-

"Koryn is the kind of artist you root for: incredibly gifted, deeply grounded and clear about the message she wants to carry. What has always stood out to us is her ability to meet people where they are and make music that feels both personal and uplifting. We're proud to welcome her to Motown Gospel and excited to help support everything she is building in this next season."

Hawthorne will preview this new era with her upcoming single "His Favorite," an uplifting anthem that seamlessly blends Gospel and R&B while reminding listeners that they are loved, chosen and favored by God. Powered by Hawthorne's signature vocals and inspiring message, the track encourages listeners to embrace their worth and walk boldly in the assurance of God's love. With its confident spirit and feel-good energy, "His Favorite" is the perfect soundtrack to begin the day with positivity and purpose.

The signing and forthcoming music follow Hawthorne's celebrated return to the 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, where she performed her RIAA Platinum-certified hit single "Won't He Do It" before hundreds of enthusiastic fans on the ESSENCE of Culture Main Stage. The moment became a powerful reminder of Hawthorne's deep connection with her audience: as she walked on stage and asked the crowd, "What do y'all want to hear?," fans immediately erupted in cheers for "Won't He Do It," singing along throughout the performance. That connection continued beyond the stage, as after her performance Hawthorne walked through the convention center and was greeted by fans who thanked her not only for her music, but for the personal story she has shared with them — including her journey of building her home and farm, her growth as a homeowner and the empowered, purpose-driven life she continues to model.

A small-town Louisiana native, Hawthorne first rose to national prominence as a finalist on The Voice before establishing herself as a major force in Gospel and inspirational music. Her breakout single "Won't He Do It" became a career-defining hit, earning RIAA Platinum certification and topping multiple Gospel charts. Since then, Hawthorne has continued to build a powerful bridge between Gospel, R&B and contemporary music, pairing her unmistakable vocal presence with messages of faith, resilience and self-worth.

More details on "His Favorite" and her forthcoming EP will be announced soon.

For more info on Koryn Hawthorne, visit the JFH Artists Database.

 

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