CHICAGO, Ill. — July 29 — Chicago-based Christian band Out of the Whirlwind has earned an Honorable Mention in the Christian category at the 2026 Global Music Awards for its song "Sing Praise."

The Global Music Awards is an international music competition that recognizes artists whose work demonstrates exceptional creativity, originality, and artistic excellence. Honorees are selected through a competitive judging process that celebrates outstanding independent musicians from around the world.

For Out of the Whirlwind, the recognition is another milestone in the band's mission to share the Gospel through its signature "nouveau gospel" sound — a genre-defying blend of traditional gospel, jazz, blues, contemporary Christian, funk, R&B, rock, folk, zydeco, and country influences.

"This is the first time our music has been recognized and this song is a great representation of who we are as a band," said John Ludwig, one of the band's founding members.

Based on Chicago's historic South Side — widely recognized as the birthplace of gospel music nearly a century ago — Out of the Whirlwind honors those musical traditions while bringing a fresh, contemporary perspective to faith-based music. Formed in 2022, the six-member ensemble is made up of veteran songwriters and musicians whose decades of experience shape a sound they describe as "nouveau gospel."

The award-winning song, "Sing Praise," appears on the band's second album, More Whirl, a 14-track collection that takes listeners on a spiritual journey through an eclectic mix of musical styles. The song features the triumphant trumpet of multiple GRAMMY® Award winner David Longoria.

The recognition from the Global Music Awards follows additional industry attention for the band, whose music has also been considered for the 68th GRAMMY® Awards in the Best Roots Gospel Album category.

The band's name is drawn from the Old Testament book of Job, reflecting its commitment to proclaiming God's message above human understanding. Every performance begins with prayer, and the group's mission remains centered on sharing the Gospel while encouraging listeners in their walk of faith.

Out of the Whirlwind's new single, "Until Jesus Taught Me to Love," an upbeat inspirational track written by keyboard player Larry Blake, is slated for release before August 30.

For more information about Out of the Whirlwind, follow the band on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/outofthewhirlwind1.

About Out of the Whirlwind

Out of the Whirlwind is a Chicago-based Christian band founded in 2022 by veteran musicians and songwriters who came together to create what they call "nouveau gospel." Drawing inspiration from gospel, jazz, blues, contemporary Christian music, funk, R&B, rock, folk, zydeco, and country, the band delivers faith-filled music that honors gospel's rich traditions while embracing innovative musical expression. Through every song and performance, Out of the Whirlwind seeks to proclaim the Gospel and point listeners toward hope and faith.

 

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