Jesusfreakhideout.com Music News: December 2025

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December 2025

*Tuesday, December 30, 2025*

8x Grammy Nominated Gospel Great Richard Smallwood Dies at 77

Richard Smallwood, an eight-time Grammy® Award nominated, classically trained composer and gospel recording artist, died on Tuesday, December 30^th @ 12:36 AM at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He died of complications of kidney failure. He was 77. Over the last five decades, he’s written some of the biggest songs of the... << Full Report >>

*Monday, December 29, 2025*

HIS Hypeman Stract and Daniel DeGree Prove There Are Levels to This Life

Emcee HIS Hypeman Stract and producer Daniel Degree are set to kick 2026 off with a project that is packed with depth, banging hip hop, and, above all, truth. Releasing across digital streaming platforms on January 1, 2026, 66 Degrees is an eight-song EP that tackles the journey from sinner to saint and the reliance we must have on... << Full Report >>

*Wednesday, December 24, 2025*

"HOPE" is Coming, Petra's First New Studio Album in 20 Years

The world’s most beloved Christian rock band Petra returns with HOPE, their first album of all-new material in more than two decades. The landmark release is licensed and distributed through Girder Music, marking a powerful new chapter for one of the most influential bands in Christian music history... << Full Report >>

*Tuesday, December 23, 2025*

John Schlitt Releases Limited Vinyl Edition of his Acclaimed Album, "The Christmas Project"

Multi-Grammy and Dove Award winner John Schlitt has released his critically acclaimed album, The Christmas Project, as a Special Limited Vinyl Edition from Girder Music, under the Limited Run Vinyl series. A rare seasonal release worthy of display and repeat spins, the new vinyl edition, which is limited to just 200 units... << Full Report >>

*Monday, December 22, 2025*

Elan Brio Shares His Passion, 'Written In Sound,' Alongside Nikkuubeats

What a year 2025 has been for Florida hip-hop artist and producer Elan Brio. Following a slew of releases, including multiple singles and projects, Brio is wrapping up the year with one final gift for his fans, the 9-track project Written In Sound... << Full Report >>

m1L and R.kitect Announce New EP and Lead Single

Emcees m1L and R.kitect are carrying the banner for the Sunshine State, as the duo has joined forces to craft the EP ‘4ZERO7,’ set to release in January 2026. The lead single from the EP, Mobilize, is hitting digital streaming platforms on December 26, 2025. Think of it as a Christmas gift for real hip hop heads... << Full Report >>

*Sunday, December 21, 2025*

"David," Starring Phil Wickham, Earns Highest-Grossing Faith-Based Animated Theatrical Opening of All Time

Angel (NYSE: ANGX), a media and technology company guided by 1.6 million grassroots Angel Guild members championing values driven stories, estimates that the company’s animated musical DAVID will gross $22 million at the weekend domestic box office. This represents Angel’s best theatrical opening in the company’s history. In addition... << Full Report >>

*Friday, December 19, 2025*

Phil Wickham Breaks Mediabase Record with No. 1 Song

Fair Trade Services is celebrating a historic milestone for its multi-platinum modern worship artist Phil Wickham, whose single “What An Awesome God” has officially become the longest-running No. 1 song in history on Mediabase’s Christian Audience chart, holding the top spot for 21 consecutive weeks... << Full Report >>

The Undertaking! Releases "Only Left Alive To See The End" on CD

The Undertaking! returns with the 5-song ripper of an EP, "Only Left Alive To See The End." The chaotic rockers with a can do attitude deliver a whole new batch of tunes that not only rage musically but have something to say lyrically. "Only Left Alive To See The End" is "told loosely from the perspective of John the Apostle while exiled on Patmos. Every one of his peers are gone. His Savior, killed. Alone," shares singer Austin R. Visser... << Full Report >>

B. Cooper Releases New Single, "Back," ft. 350

B.Cooper has released a new single today, titled "Back," from Sleep No More / RMG Amplify. This song is a cinematic, autobiographical comeback anthem rooted in grit, perseverance, and renewed purpose. It blends high-energy bars with reflective storytelling, detailing the journey from struggle and nonstop... << Full Report >>

*Tuesday, December 16, 2025*

for KING + COUNTRY's "Do You Hear What I Hear" Goes Gold

Award-winning duo for KING + COUNTRY, signed to Curb Records, is celebrating a major milestone: their 2020 holiday Amazon Music Original, “Do You Hear What I Hear,” has earned RIAA Gold certification and returned to No. 1 on... << Full Report >>

Provident Entertainment Named Billboard's Top Christian Label for 2025

Provident Entertainment has been named Billboard’s Top Christian Label for the second consecutive year, along with Top Christian Albums Label and Hot Christian Songs Label, continuing its momentum as one of the industry’s leading homes for faith-based music. In addition to securing the top label... << Full Report >>

Tribl Records Earns #1 Spot on Billboard's 2025 Year-End Gospel Charts

Tribl Records closes out 2025 with a dominating presence on Billboard’s Year-End Gospel Charts, securing the #1 position across multiple marquee categories, including Top Gospel Labels, Top Gospel Album Imprints, Hot Gospel Songs Imprints, and Hot Gospel Songs Labels. Billboard’s year-end data underscores Tribl’s standing as the most... << Full Report >>

*Monday, December 15, 2025*

Forrest Frank Releases New Single, "Thankful"

GRAMMY-nominated, GMA Dove Award-winning artist FORREST FRANK has released the new single, “THANKFUL" coinciding with massive demand for his upcoming The Jesus Generation Tour — with over... << Full Report >>

Blessing Offor Kicks Off 2026 with Headline Tour

Two-time GRAMMY Nominee and Gold selling multi-instrumentalist Blessing Offor is closing out a monumental year with the announcement of a long-awaited headline tour slated for 2026. Dubbed the “Heart So Real Tour,” the dates mark Blessing’s first headline tour in support of his... << Full Report >>

Renowned Vocalist Steve Amerson Celebrates the Season with "Carols in the Capitol"

In what has become a beloved holiday tradition uniting lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, world-renowned vocalist and Hollywood studio singer Steve Amerson recently helped ring in the season with the annual... << Full Report >>

Hip-Hop Trio CarriedOn Announce the Release of Debut Album

Following in the aftermath of their critically acclaimed 2025 debut singles, the hip-hop trio known as CarriedOn finishes out the year with the release of their first project... << Full Report >>

Keyodis Releases The Gift of "Incarnatio / Nativitas Ecclesia" Double Single

Keyodis gives a gift that will keep on giving all year round with the release of their double single (I guess that's what we'll call it) "Incarnatio / Nativitas Ecclesia." Although these songs are rooted in the Spirit of Christmas, they are not meant to be pulled out once a year and dusted off... << Full Report >>

*Friday, December 12, 2025*

Matthew West Performs At "CBS News Presents: A Town Hall With Erika Kirk"

“One of Christian music's most prolific singer-songwriters” (Billboard), Matthew West,recently performed his songs of faith and unity for a live audience at “CBS News Presents: A Town Hall with Erika Kirk,” airing on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS... << Full Report >>

Seph Schlueter Caps Breakout Year with Billboard and Mediabase Success

Worship leader and singer/songwriter Seph Schlueter is closing out his most successful year yet, earning major accolades across Billboard and Mediabase while celebrating the explosive global reach of his music and a rapidly growing fan base. Schlueter’s single “Running Back To You” made a... << Full Report >>

New Artist Of the Year Leanna Crawford Announces The Sisterhood Tour

On the heels of her recent GMA Dove Award win for New Artist of the Year, Provident Entertainment/Sony Music artist Leanna Crawford has announced plans to headline The Sisterhood Tour launching in February and featuring special guest artists Riley Clemmons and Madison Watkins. Presented by Compassion International and Eight Days of Hope... << Full Report >>

TPR. Announces a 2-Night Return of Tommee Profitt The Birth Of A King Live At Bridgestone Arena in 2026

Award-winning composer for TV & Film, producer, and songwriter Tommee Profitt announces the return of his acclaimed holiday spectacular THE BIRTH OF A KING, expanding to two nights at Bridgestone Arena on December 12 and December 13, 2026. Since its live debut in 2022, this... << Full Report >>

Compassion LIVE Presents the Hope of Heaven Tour with Jennifer Rothschild and Point of Grace

Compassion LIVE announces the Hope of Heaven Tour with author and Bible teacher Jennifer Rothschild, along with special guest Kelly Minter and Point of Grace. Step into the joy, beauty, and hope of Heaven at this unforgettable... << Full Report >>

Declarations Debuts Self Titled EP

Declarations chief songwriter Mike Wright is no stranger to the music scene, having played in such notable bands as The Ironside Collective, Fighting Jacks, Freeto Boat, Saint Didacus, and numerous others. However, with this new musical journey, Wright taps into his love of metal and hardcore, unleashing a sound many would compare to bands like Zao, The Agony Scene, Carcass, and At The Gates. He also... << Full Report >>

William Lee Golden and The Goldens Release New Music Video For "Old Country Church"

Country and Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, alongside his family band The Goldens, proudly unveils their heartfelt new music video for “Old Country Church,” arriving just in time for the holiday season. Featuring Golden on lead vocals, with sons Chris and Rusty providing background vocals, drums, and piano, and... << Full Report >>

*Thursday, December 11, 2025*

Peter Burton Named One of Pandora's Artists To Watch: 2026 - Will Tour with Anne Wilson in 2026

Singer-songwriter and worship leader Peter Burton has been recognized as one of the Artists to Watch in 2026 as part of The Pandora Ten. This exclusive list highlights ten emerging artists across all genres... << Full Report >>

Matthew West Shares How God Became the Ultimate Author of His Story with I Am Second

Award-winning recording artist, singer-songwriter and storyteller Matthew West details the defining—yet unexpected—moments that led him to discovering his identity and purpose in a new White Chair film released today from the global... << Full Report >>

Erica Lane's Christmas Single "Secret Workshop" Climbs to #1 on iTunes

Santa Claus came early for award-winning singer-songwriter Erica Lane, whose new Christmas single “Secret Workshop” debuted at #10 on the iTunes Holiday Chart before climbing to #1 on the iTunes Worldwide Chart. The festive new song is... << Full Report >>

*Wednesday, December 10, 2025*

We Are Messengers' "We Three Kings" Debuts at #1 on the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart

Curb Records’ We Are Messengers celebrates the #1 Billboard Christian Airplay Chart debut of Christmas single, “We Three Kings.” This marks the first holiday single ever to debut at #1 on the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart, as well as the first radio single to debut at #1 on the same chart in two decades... << Full Report >>

GMA Dove Awards Return to Nashville's Bridgestone Arena in 2026

The 57th Annual GMA Dove Awards return to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Tuesday, October 6th, 2026. Tickets will be available in an exclusive pre-sale Thursday, December 11th, 2025, at 10am CT. Use code DOVE to access the pre-sale. Public tickets go on sale Monday, December 15th, at 10am CT.

2026 Music City Fan Experience tickets are... << Full Report >>

Tasha Cobbs Leonard Shares Historic Late-Night Performance with John Legend

In a historic moment for the genre, 3x GRAMMY winner and Billboard’s Gospel Artist of the Decade Tasha Cobbs Leonard took center stage on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! Monday night, delivering a barrier-breaking performance of her hit single “Church” alongside EGOT winner John Legend... << Full Report >>

Integrity Music Welcomes Brad Moist as Vice President of A&R and Development

Christian record label Integrity Music welcomes industry veteran Brad Moist as vice president of A&R and development. In this role, Moist will scout and develop new talent, continue to grow existing relationships with Integrity Music’s artist roster, and shape the label's creative direction... << Full Report >>

Legendary The Whispers Drop Gospel Reissue with Remixes and Previously Unreleased Material

The surviving members of the legendary R&B vocal group, The Whispers, known for classic Billboard No. 1 R&B hits such as “Rock Steady” and “And the Beat Goes On,” are reissuing their beloved 2010 gospel album, Thankful, as Thankful : The Compilation (Kingdom Records / Virgin Music Group)... << Full Report >>

*Tuesday, December 9, 2025*

David and Tamela Mann Set To Share Their Legacy of Love, Laughter and Music on Upcoming Nationwide Relationship Tour

Entertainment’s Beloved Power-Couple David and Tamela Mann are set to share insight into their 37-year marital love story on their nationwide spring 2026 tour. David and Tamela Mann: The Love & Relationship Tour kicks off April 10, 2026, in Houston, Texas with additional stops planned in cities across the country. At each show, David and Tamela will share their... << Full Report >>

Capitol CMG Publishing Announces Key Leadership Staff Promotions

Capitol CMG Publishing, a division of Capitol Christian Music Group, today announces strategic staff promotions that strengthen its leadership team and position the company for continued growth and innovation. David Gutekunst has been promoted to Executive Vice President, where he will lead the publishing division and oversee all... << Full Report >>

Steph Carse Tops Charts Following Canada's The Masked Singer Win

Following his triumphant win on Quebec, Canada's The Masked Singer (Chanteurs Masqués) on November 23rd, award-winning 5-octive vocalist Steph Carse is topping the charts with a new studio album (Praise and Worship)... << Full Report >>

*Monday, December 8, 2025*

Forrest Frank Announces The Jesus Generation Tour with Tori Kelly

GRAMMY-nominated and GMA DOVE Award-winning artist FORREST FRANK has announced The Jesus Generation Tour with special guests Tori Kelly, Cory Asbury and The Figs. ... << Full Report >>

Samsung TV Plus Presents "Hallelujah! It's Christmas! with Phil Wickham & Friends"

Samsung TV Plus is celebrating the season with an all-new holiday spectacular, Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! with Phil Wickham & Friends, a festive live worship and Christmas music experience debuting exclusively on the service Wednesday, December 24th at 8:00PM ET and will run through Christmas Day... << Full Report >>

KJ-52 Releases Exclusive Christmas EP and Unreleased Project, "Legacy"

Veteran hip-hop artist KJ-52 has announced the release of two new projects available exclusively through his website for the Christmas season. The first is ReRapped & ReGifted, a 6-song Christmas EP featuring remixed and rerecorded versions of some of his past... << Full Report >>

Chris Blue Unveils Artifacts at The National Museum of African American Music in Partnership with Gaither Music Group

Gaither Music Group and The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) partnered on Wednesday, December 3^rd, for a special evening honoring musical artist and DOVE Award-nominee, Chris Blue. Blue was the 2017 Season 12 winner on NBC’s The Voice, and the first African American winner since Jermaine Paul’s win in 2012 in Season 2... << Full Report >>

Rapper MotionPlus Releases New Album, "Antiquity"

Hip hop veteran emcee MotionPlus has crafted a project that pays homage to the golden era of hip hop. Antiquity reminds everyone that classic music endures the test of time... << Full Report >>

Brinson Releases New Short Film for His First Christmas Single

GodChaserz Entertainment’s founder, Brinson, has released something far beyond a music video — a fully animated musical Christmas short film built around his new single, You Are My Gift... << Full Report >>

*Friday, December 5, 2025*

THIRD DAY Announces 30th Anniversary Concert at Red Rocks June 18 with Very Special Guests Michael W. Smith, Matt Maher, Jon Reddick and Brandon Heath

One of the most influential bands in Christian music history, the four-time GRAMMY-winning and multi-platinum rock band THIRD DAY will mark the 30-year milestone since the release of its debut album with a once-in-a-lifetime concert June 18, 2026, at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado... << Full Report >>

Peter Burton Releases New Version of His Song, "Where Would I Be," with Matthew West

Peter Burton has released a new version of his radio single, “Where Would I Be,” with GRAMMY®-nominated artist and songwriter Matthew West. Released initially as Burton’s debut single with Integrity Music, the song continues to grow in reach and impact. Listen to "Where Would I Be" now... << Full Report >>

Jamie MacDonald Announces First Headlining "Left It In The River" Tour

Capitol Christian Music Group artist Jamie MacDonald announces her first-ever headlining run, the “Left It In The River” Tour. Kicking off February 19 in Dallas, the eight-date run will stop through major cities including Nashville, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and more... << Full Report >>

29:11 Worship, Zion Rempel, and Daniel Epps-Benn Declare the Christmas Message with New Single "Glory Glory"

29:11 Worship, the collective born from the heart of 29:11 Church, announces their newest holiday single, “Glory Glory with Zion Rempel and Daniel Epps-Benn),” available everywhere via DREAM Worship. Led by the powerhouse vocals of Zion Rempel, of 29:11 Worship, and Daniel Epps-Benn, this song is a joyful and triumphant declaration of the Christmas story... << Full Report >>

Run51 Brings the Joy with New Holiday Medley, "Good News"

Run51 is kicking off the holiday season with the release of their vibrant new single, "Good News - A Christmas Medley." Out today on all major streaming platforms, the track takes classic Christmas hymns and re-imagines them with Run51's hallmark upbeat and energetic style, delivering a message of joy and faith perfect for the season... << Full Report >>

Soulful Singer-Songwriter MATTHEWS Launches Curb Records Debut With "The Darkest Light"

Soulful singer-songwriter MATTHEWS launches his Curb Records debut, The Darkest Light, today (12/5) — listen HERE. With The Darkest Light, MATTHEWS embarks on a bold solo experiment, which features feel-good original “Don’t Stop ’Til,” the bluesy... << Full Report >>

Leslie Jordan Releases New "Memos" EP Exclusively on Bandcamp

Former All Sons & Daughters member Leslie Jordan has been releasing solo music independently and just dropped a brand new EP of b-sides, titled Memos. About the EP, Jordan writes: “Memos,” an EP of four unreleased work tapes from The Agonist archives is available today for purchase and download, ONLY on... << Full Report >>

JVKE and Forrest Frank Release "this is what christmas feels like"

Today, multi-talented artist and producer JVKE and singer-songwriter FORREST FRANK are releasing their collaborative holiday album, this is what christmas feels like, via AWAL... << Full Report >>

Nunky Koma Releases Her New 3-Song EP, "MY ALL"

South African Gospel artist Nunky Koma has released her new 3-song EP titled MY ALL, now available on all digital platforms. The project captures a defining moment in her spiritual and artistic journey, bringing together songs shaped by devotion, honesty, and full surrender to God... << Full Report >>

B. Cooper Releases New Track, "Peace" ft. SIV

B. Cooper's "Peace," feat. SIV, is a testimony of gratitude and growth — a reflection on unexpected blessings, faith, and the peace that comes from surrendering to God’s plan. It paints a picture of real-life maturity: settling down, raising a family, and learning that true success isn't measured by shortcuts or earthly gains, but by purpose and peace. The verses look back on chasing dreams... << Full Report >>

*Thursday, December 4, 2025*

Gotee Records Signs New Artist Leslie Perez

Gotee Records is proud to announce the signing of emerging R&B/soul artist Leslie Perez. Her vocals and genre-blending sound have quickly positioned her as an artist to watch. The Minnesota-born singer-songwriter has garnered millions of independent streams, opened for Madison Ryann Ward, performed in London... << Full Report >>

Scapegoat Releases New Single "Glorious Appearance (Ft. Absolute Desolation)"

Scapegoat gives fans a Christmas gift this season in the form of their new track, “Glorious Appearance.” The new single features Absolute Desolation as a guest artist... << Full Report >>

Tyscot Records Inks Agreement with GiftBox Music Group

Tyscot Records is approaching its golden anniversary with a golden signing. The label has signed a new partnership agreement with GiftBox Music Group. The company is co-owned by seasoned vocalist Tasha Page-Lockhart (the Stellar Award winning vocalist who soared to fame after winning the BET Sunday Best talent competition in 2013... << Full Report >>

iNTELLECT and Procyse Invite You to "Lose Yourself"

On their newest single, emcees iNTELLECT (Ohio) and Procyse (Colorado) explore exactly what it means to give up oneself for the glory that is only found in Jesus Christ. Lose Yourself drops on digital streaming platforms on December 5, 2025... << Full Report >>

Eddy Mann Unveils Reverent New Christmas Single, "O' Come"

Beloved Christian singer-songwriter and worship leader Eddy Mann releases a deeply moving new Christmas single, “O' Come,” a re-imagined interpretation of a timeless holiday refrain. Available now on all major streaming platforms, the worship anthem blends tenderness, simplicity, and sacred intention—inviting listeners... << Full Report >>

Kwa the Daydreamer Drops New Video That Encourages Viewers to "Keep Fighting"

Originally released as part of the EP ‘Godspeed’ in 2025, Keep Fighting is a standout record for Detroit’s Kwa the Daydreamer. With gifted storytelling and captivating harmonies, Kwa delivers a message, alongside Myss Outlet, for individuals who are deep in the battle and are struggling to see the Light... << Full Report >>

*Wednesday, December 3, 2025*

Jekalyn Carr Announces The Limited Edition Jekalyn Carr Doll

It’s official—The Jekalyn Carr Doll arrives Friday, December 5, marking the debut of a limited-edition collectible created with purpose, passion, and intentional design. Every detail of the doll was thoughtfully crafted to inspire and uplift, celebrating the beauty, confidence, and inner strength within every girl and woman. From her signature look to... << Full Report >>

Jordan Colle Joins Bethel Music Collective

Bethel Music is excited to announce the addition of worship leader and songwriter Jordan Colle to its distinguished collective, launching his arrival with the release of his new single, “Can’t Help But Praise (Live),” available today. As part of Bethel... << Full Report >>

*Tuesday, December 2, 2025*

Steven Curtis Chapman Extends Speechless The Tour Into Spring 2026 Following Successful 2025 Tour

Five-time GRAMMY® winner and the most awarded artist in Christian music history, Steven Curtis Chapman, is extending Speechless The Tour into spring 2026 after overwhelming fan response and five sold-out shows this fall. The newly announced dates will bring the celebrated tour to additional cities across the country, offering fans even more opportunities... << Full Report >>

Grace Graber Closes Out a Banner Year with Punk Cover of "Lemonade" and Christmas Tune "His Favorite Christmas Story"

Grace Graber closed out a banner year with two massive November single releases: her take on Forrest Frank and The Figs’ smash hit “Lemonade,” which has amassed well over 2 million views between TikTok and Instagram, and “His Favorite Christmas Story,” a deep cut from former Tooth & Nail pop punk band Capital Lights... << Full Report >>

Alex Henry Foster Shares Powerful Live Performance of "City on Fire"

Following the final stretch of The High Blooming Ritual tour — which featured sold-out shows and received praise from numerous European media outlets — Alex Henry Foster released last week a live music video for City on Fire, recorded at Italy’s 2Days Prog + 1 Festival. The release has already received notable support from outlets such as... << Full Report >>

Capitol Christian Music Group Promotes Key Team Members and Adds On

Current team members Carlos Monnaco and Garrett Davis have been recognized with promotions for their diligent work and ongoing commitment to CCMG’s expansive roster of artists, writers and partners with Monnaco rising to EVP, Finance, and Davis being elevated to SVP, A&R... << Full Report >>

Skillet's "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" Hits Number 1 on Multiple Billboard Charts

22x platinum rock band SKILLET'S cover of“O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” has soared to #1 across multiple BILLBOARD charts: Chrisitan Digital Song Sales, Holiday Digital Song Sales, Rock Digital Song Sales... << Full Report >>

*Monday, December 1, 2025*

Sensere Releases New Christmas Single, "Joy and Peace," feat. Adolphus

Just in time for the holidays, Sensere releases a festive Christmas single that is the perfect addition to the soundtrack of the season... << Full Report >>