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๐ŸŽถ New This Week

Every week brings a fresh batch of Christian music into the worldโ€”new albums, EPs, and songs from artists we know and artists we’re just discovering. New This Week is our chance to explore some of the music that has just been released, learn a little about the artists and their new music, and perhaps discover something that deserves a place in your playlist. So let’s take a look at what’s New This Week in Christian music!

๐Ÿ’ฟAlbums

Tye Tribbett โ€” V20: First Semester (Live)


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Twenty years after the release of his groundbreaking Victory album, two-time Grammy Award-winning Gospel powerhouse Tye Tribbett celebrates the legacy of that landmark recording with V20: First Semester (Live). More than a nostalgic return to familiar music, this 16-track project reimagines the spirit of Victory with explosive live instrumentation, fresh arrangements, and a new generation of Gospel talent joining the celebration. Featuring collaborations with ABLAZE, Thaddaeus Tribbett, HLE, and others, the album blends Gospel, R&B, hip-hop, rock, and contemporary praise into an exhilarating musical experience. From the declaration of God’s victory in “I Want It All Back” to the joyful celebration of “Still Have Joy,” Tribbett reminds us that while the music may evolve and generations may change, one thing remains constant: the victory belongs to God!

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Lily Hooten โ€” Promised Land


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East Tennessee singer-songwriter and worship leader Lily Hooten makes a beautiful solo debut with Promised Land, a 10-track collection of intimate, folk-influenced Christian music exploring faith, grief, the hope of Heaven, and the beauty of everyday life. Inspired in part by the loss of her grandfather, Lily approaches life’s most difficult questions with remarkable honesty, reminding us that sorrow does not have the final word and that our hope is found in Jesus. Produced by David Leonard, Brad King, and Collin Healer, the album features deeply personal songs that she describes as “letters to Jesus” โ€” prayers transformed into music. From the searching questions of “Push and Pull” to the invitation to encounter Christ in “Come Meet the Man,” Lily offers something refreshingly genuine: music that doesn’t pretend life is always easy, but points us toward the One who makes it worth living. Promised Land is a wonderful introduction to a young artist whose heart for Jesus shines through every song.

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Jackie Hill Perry โ€” Still Blameless (Deluxe)


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Jackie Hill Perry returns with Still Blameless (Deluxe), a powerful 22-track expansion of her acclaimed 2025 album Blameless, delivering another thought-provoking collection of Christian hip-hop rooted deeply in Scripture and the realities of the Christian experience. Anchored in Jude 24 and the promise that God is able to keep us from falling and present us blameless before His glory, the project explores repentance, spiritual growth, victory over sin, and the struggles of living out our faith. Seven additional tracks bring fresh perspectives and collaborations with artists including Khal!l, MEEZO!, and Grace Runkle. From confronting the challenges of spiritual growth to reflecting on God’s promises of redemption and the resurrection, Jackie combines sharp lyrical craftsmanship with uncompromising biblical truth. This is more than just an impressive hip-hop project; it’s a reminder that our hope isn’t found in our own perfection, but in the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

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Jeremy Camp โ€” A Camp Family Christmas


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Christmas gets a little more personal this year as multi-platinum Christian music artist Jeremy Camp invites us into his family’s holiday celebration with A Camp Family Christmas. Joined by his wife Adrienne and their children Egan, Arie, and Bella, Jeremy delivers a warm and intimate collection of beloved Christmas classics, refreshed with new arrangements and plenty of family musical chemistry. Alongside treasured favorites like “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “O Holy Night,” “Silent Night,” and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” the album also features original contributions from daughter Bella, including the beautiful worship song “Least of These,” featuring British Christian artist Rich Moses, and “Behold.” There’s even room for a little holiday fun with “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and “White Christmas.” But beneath the familiar melodies and joyful family atmosphere is a deeper message: Christmas is ultimately about celebrating God’s greatest gift to humanity, Jesus Christ. It’s a lovely reminder that sometimes the most meaningful music is made with the people we love most.

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Blanca โ€” A Christmas To Remember


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Christian music favorite Blanca brings her powerful vocals and infectious blend of pop, R&B, and Latin influences to the Christmas season with her first full-length holiday album, A Christmas To Remember. Expanding on her 2025 Christmas EP, this 12-track collection puts a fresh and joyful spin on familiar holiday favorites while celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. Highlights include a spirited, Gospel-infused reimagining of “Joyful, Joyful (We Singin’ Out),” the beloved carols “O Come, All Ye Faithful (Gloria),” “O Holy Night,” and “Mary, Did You Know?,” and the bilingual celebration “Gozo Y Paz (God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen)” featuring Colombian Christian artist Alex Campos. Perhaps most touching is “Esta Linda Navidad,” which features a special collaboration with Blanca’s late father, Toรฑito Reyes. The album also introduces the original song “Feel Like Christmas.” With its joyful musical diversity, heartfelt family connection, and celebration of the birth of our Savior, A Christmas To Remember is a wonderful addition to this year’s Christmas music collection!

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Amy Grant โ€” Tennessee Christmas: 10th Anniversary Edition


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Ten years after first bringing us the warmth and musical charm of Tennessee Christmas, six-time Grammy Award winner Amy Grant celebrates the anniversary of her beloved holiday album with an expanded 19-track edition featuring four new recordings. This special release brings together familiar Christmas favorites, heartfelt seasonal songwriting, and some wonderful family musical collaborations. Among the highlights are “To Be Together,” featuring contemporary Christian favorites CAIN, “Still Can’t Sleep,” featuring Franni Cash, and a newly reimagined version of “From The Cold” featuring Amy’s husband Vince Gill and their daughter Corrina Gill. The collection also includes a beautiful new arrangement of the Christmas classic “What Child Is This,” subtitled “By Candlelight Mix.” From the familiar comfort of the title track to the timeless celebration of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” Amy reminds us why her music has remained such an important part of Christian music and Christmas celebrations for generations. It’s a delightful opportunity to revisit a modern Christmas classic while enjoying some fresh musical surprises along the way!

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๐ŸŽตSongs

Cody Carnes & Kari Jobe โ€” “Doxology (All Praise)“


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Husband-and-wife worship leaders Cody Carnes and Kari Jobe Carnes come together for a remarkable new expression of one of Christianity’s most treasured hymns with “Doxology (All Praise).” Originally written in 1674 by Thomas Ken, the familiar words “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” have inspired generations of believers. Now Cody and Kari expand that timeless declaration of praise with six newly written verses that take listeners on an extraordinary journey through the story of our faith, from Creation and the Cross to the Resurrection, the Holy Spirit, the return of Christ, and the ultimate revelation of His glory. Beautifully connecting centuries of Christian worship with a fresh contemporary sound, this is much more than a new arrangement of a beloved hymn. It’s a sweeping celebration of everything God has done, everything He is doing, and everything He has promised. And its central message is one that never grows old: All praise belongs to God!

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Bethel Music featuring Emmy Rose โ€” “Noel (He Is Born)“


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Bethel Music welcomes the Christmas season with a beautiful new rendition of “Noel (He Is Born),” featuring worship leader and songwriter Emmy Rose. Blending the beloved Christmas carol “The First Noel” with a fresh, powerful worship refrain, this recording takes us back to the biblical account in Luke 2, when angels announced the birth of the Savior to shepherds watching their flocks. But this is more than a retelling of a familiar Christmas story. The new refrain celebrates Jesus as Emmanuel, God with us, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who came into the world to bring salvation and hope to all humanity. Emmy Rose delivers the song with a heartfelt spirit of worship, inviting us to move beyond simply remembering the Christmas story and join in celebrating the miraculous truth at its center. He is born! The Savior has come! What a wonderful reason to sing Noel!

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Natasha Zimbaro โ€” “Emmanuel“


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Canadian-born singer-songwriter and worship leader Natasha Zimbaro brings us a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas with her new single, “Emmanuel.” Co-written with Jonathan Moos, this worshipful song celebrates one of the most extraordinary truths in all of Scripture: God Himself stepped into His creation and came near to us through Jesus Christ. The name Emmanuel, meaning “God with us,” captures the wonder of the incarnation and the incredible gift at the heart of the Christmas story. Natasha hopes to move listeners beyond the familiarity of the holiday season and invite them into a fresh appreciation of just how miraculous the birth of Jesus really is. Currently serving as a full-time worship leader at Lakepointe Church in the Dallas area, Natasha brings both a deep love for worship and a strong biblical foundation to her songwriting. “Emmanuel” is the first release from a larger collection of Christ-centered music she is preparing for 2027, making this a wonderful introduction to an artist we’ll be looking forward to hearing more from!

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Lauren Talley โ€” “While There’s Time“


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Award-winning Gospel singer-songwriter Lauren Talley delivers a beautiful and deeply personal reminder about the importance of loving one another with her new single, “While There’s Time.” Co-written with acclaimed Christian songwriter Dave Clark, the song began as a tribute to their late friends, the Nelons, but took on an even deeper meaning when Clark suffered a heart attack the day after they finished writing it. Thankfully recovering, he told Lauren that if this were the last song he ever wrote, he wanted its message to be about saying “I love you” while there’s still time. Built around dramatic piano and Lauren’s powerful, expressive vocals, the song challenges us to become voices of mercy, be the first to ask forgiveness, and the last to condemn. Its message is profoundly Christ-centered, reminding us that our faith should be reflected in how we treat the people around us every day. Life is precious, opportunities can disappear, and sometimes the most important words are the ones we haven’t yet spoken. What a wonderful reminder to hold our loved ones close, forgive freely, and never wait too long to tell someone how much they mean to us!

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Jordan St. Cyr โ€” “Angels We Have Heard On High“


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Canadian contemporary Christian singer-songwriter Jordan St. Cyr brings a fresh and heartfelt interpretation of one of Christmas’s most beloved carols with his new two-song single, “Angels We Have Heard On High.” Originally dating back to an 18th-century French Christmas hymn, the familiar song celebrates the angels’ joyful announcement of the birth of Jesus Christ to the shepherds in Bethlehem. Its unforgettable “Gloria in excelsis Deo” refrain, meaning “Glory to God in the highest,” captures the wonder and excitement surrounding the arrival of our Savior. Jordan brings his distinctive contemporary Christian sound and expressive vocals to this timeless celebration, reminding us that the Christmas story isn’t simply a beautiful tradition we revisit each December. It’s the story of the greatest gift ever given to humanity! With its joyful message of praise and worship, this is a wonderful new recording to add to our Christmas playlists as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

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Phil Wickham โ€” “O Holy Night (Adoration)“


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Contemporary worship favorite Phil Wickham brings new life to one of Christmas music’s most beloved and breathtaking hymns with his new recording, “O Holy Night (Adoration).” Originally written in the 19th century, “O Holy Night” has remained a treasured celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, with its powerful declaration that the Savior’s arrival brought hope and redemption to a world in need. Phil preserves the familiar beauty and emotional power of the original carol while introducing a newly written second verse and a contemporary worship refrain that invites listeners to welcome and adore the King of Ages. His soaring vocals and unmistakable passion for worship make this a particularly moving interpretation, transforming a familiar Christmas favorite into an even more personal expression of praise. As we sing about that miraculous night in Bethlehem, we’re reminded that the child born in a manger is the King of kings, worthy of all our worship, not just at Christmas, but forever. What a wonderful way to celebrate the arrival of our Savior!

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Elle Limebear โ€” “Give Me Joy (Live)“


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British singer-songwriter and worship leader Elle Limebear captures the excitement and beauty of a room full of believers lifting their voices together with “Give Me Joy (Live),” a powerful new recording of her breakout worship song, recorded at London’s iconic O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire. Inspired by the beloved traditional hymn “Oil in My Lamp,” Elle takes its familiar chorus and builds upon it with fresh verses and melodies celebrating the kind of joy that comes from following Jesus. The song reminds us that genuine Christian joy isn’t dependent upon having an easy life or escaping difficult circumstances. It’s a deeper happiness and holy confidence rooted in knowing Christ, trusting His faithfulness, and choosing to praise Him through every season. The enthusiastic audience participation makes this recording especially infectious, transforming an already uplifting song into a wonderful shared celebration of faith. The original song spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Official UK Christian & Gospel Singles Chart, and this live version captures exactly why it has resonated with so many listeners. What a joyful reminder to keep praising God, whatever life brings our way!

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Joe & Beth โ€” “I Stand Forgiven“


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Christian husband-and-wife music duo Joe & Beth turn a deeply personal story of struggle, confession, and redemption into a powerful declaration of faith with their new single, “I Stand Forgiven.” Written by Joe Guerra, the song draws from his own journey through a painful season of hidden alcohol addiction, shame, and isolation, and the freedom that came when he finally brought his struggles into the light and surrendered them to God. Rooted in the biblical promises of 1 John 1:9 and 1 John 4:16-18, the song reminds us that God’s forgiveness isn’t reserved for people who have everything figured out. It’s available to those who come honestly before Him, trusting in His grace and love. With an uplifting Christian pop/rock sound and an especially powerful message, Joe & Beth remind listeners that our past doesn’t have to define our future, that confession can open the door to healing, and that no one is beyond the reach of God’s redeeming love. It’s an honest, encouraging testimony that points us toward the freedom found in Jesus Christ. We don’t have to live in shame. Through His grace, we can stand forgiven!

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Matthew Plante โ€” “OVEN MITT!“


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Emerging Vancouver-based Christian hip-hop artist Matthew Plante brings a little humor, plenty of energy, and an unmistakably serious message of faith to his new single, “OVEN MITT!” Released through DREAM Records, this hard-hitting track combines heavy bass, trap-inspired rhythms, and rapid-fire lyrical delivery with a creative metaphor about walking through life’s fires without being consumed. Plante draws on the biblical imagery of God’s protection through adversity, reminding us that when we remain grounded in Scripture and hold tightly to our faith, we don’t have to be defeated by the challenges surrounding us. With lines about keeping his Bible close, honoring God’s covenant, and bringing the light of Christ to others, Matthew delivers an energetic declaration of spiritual resilience. And that unusual title? It’s a clever way of describing the protection God provides when we’re going through the heat of life’s toughest battles. Sometimes Christian hip-hop comes with a message you don’t expect, and this one certainly makes its point loud and clear!

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Josh Grove โ€” “Glory“


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Sixteen-year-old Michigan singer-songwriter and worship leader Josh Grove welcomes the Christmas season with his new single, “Glory,” a fresh and beautifully understated celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Inspired by the journey of the Magi and the angels’ glorious announcement of the Savior’s arrival, Josh takes us back to the wonder and anticipation surrounding that first Christmas in Bethlehem. Rather than relying on traditional Christmas arrangements, he blends warm lo-fi production with a relaxed, atmospheric sound that gives the song an intimate, reflective quality. Written by Josh himself and produced by Eric Haley, “Glory” offers a refreshing opportunity to slow down amid the busyness of the holiday season and reflect on the incredible gift God gave the world through His Son. Already establishing himself as a promising young voice in Christian music, Josh demonstrates that age is no barrier to creating music with a meaningful message. What a wonderful first Christmas single from an artist whose heart is clearly focused on sharing the hope of Jesus!

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Michelle Williams & Kenny Lattimore โ€” “God With Us“


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Grammy Award-winning Gospel singer Michelle Williams joins acclaimed R&B vocalist Kenny Lattimore for a delightful new holiday collaboration, “God With Us,” released through Tyscot Records as the first single from the forthcoming soundtrack to the faith-based Christmas film of the same name. Blending contemporary Gospel with a smooth, soulful R&B groove, the two artists complement one another beautifully, trading lead vocals and harmonizing on a song that celebrates the incredible gift of God’s presence in our lives. With lyrics declaring Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the song reminds us that we never have to face life’s storms alone because God is always with us. Inspired by the film’s modern retelling of the Nativity story, “God With Us” brings a fresh musical perspective to the timeless Christmas message of Emmanuel. It’s an uplifting, feel-good celebration of faith, hope, and the unconditional love of God, with two outstanding vocalists delivering a wonderful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas!

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Baylee Lynn โ€” “Save Me a Seat“


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Baylee Lynnโ€™s โ€œSave Me A Seatโ€ is a tender, piano-led country ballad about grief, faith, and the hope of being reunited with a loved one in Heaven. Written in honor of her grandfather, whom she affectionately called โ€œPoppy,โ€ the song transforms the familiar gesture of saving someone a seat into a beautiful picture of eternal reunion. As the arrangement gradually builds with sweeping strings, Baylee reflects on the pain of losing someone dear while holding onto the comfort of knowing that goodbye isn’t forever. The accompanying music video, filmed in an empty church, adds another personal layer to a song rooted in her own beginnings singing in church with her parents. Itโ€™s a heartfelt reminder that even in grief, faith can give us hope.

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Steven Malcolm โ€” “Prey On Me“


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Steven Malcolm is back with โ€œPrey On Me,โ€ an introspective, melodic hip-hop track that reveals a more vulnerable side of the Christian rap artist. Moving beyond the usual measures of success, Malcolm reflects on gratitude, fatherhood, breaking generational cycles, and discovering peace through faith. With an infectious melodic chorus and contemporary hip-hop production, the song offers an uplifting reminder that real success isn’t measured by money or material possessions, but by the people we love, the legacy we build, and the life we live with purpose. It’s a fresh artistic direction for Malcolm, but one that remains grounded in the faith and authenticity that have defined his music.

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๐Ÿ† Artist of the Week

Each week, FishWorship shines a spotlight on a Christian artist whose impact reaches beyond the music itself. From established voices to emerging artists finding their own place in Christian music, our Artist of the Week series celebrates those who bring something meaningful to the genre through their faith, creativity, songwriting, and unique perspective. Our goal is to introduce listeners to artists worth discovering and recognize the many ways Christian music continues to grow, inspire, and make a difference.

Grace Graber

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Artist of the Week: Grace Graber โ€“ Bringing Pop-Punk Energy and the Hope of Jesus to a New Generation

If you grew up listening to Christian pop-punk, you might want to turn up the volume for this week’s FishWorship Artist of the Week! We’re introducing you to Grace Graber, a Christian singer-songwriter who is bringing back the energy, attitude, and infectious melodies of pop-punk while delivering something even more important: songs rooted in faith, hope, redemption, and the love of Jesus.

And we’ve picked a particularly exciting week to feature Grace. Her brand-new album, Sophomore Year, just arrived on November 6! With nine tracks of original music, this is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with an artist who is carving out her own place in today’s Christian music scene.

So let’s get to know Grace Graber!

A Sound That Takes Us Back โ€“ With Something New to Say

There’s something wonderfully familiar about Grace Graber’s musical style. If names like Hawk Nelson, Stellar Kart, and Philmont bring back some great memories, you’re going to appreciate what Grace is doing.

Her music embraces the infectious energy of pop-punk: driving guitars, energetic drums, catchy melodies, and lyrics that don’t shy away from real life. It’s music that makes you want to turn up the volume, sing along, and maybe remember a few of those Christian rock playlists from years gone by!

But Grace isn’t simply trying to recreate an earlier era of Christian music. She’s bringing her own experiences, personality, and faith into a sound that feels right at home in today’s world.

And that’s what makes her so much fun to discover.


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A Story of Finding Hope โ€“ And Sharing It With Others

Behind the energetic music is a deeply personal story.

Grace has spoken openly about her struggles with depression, PTSD, and the painful experiences of being bullied during her teenage years. During one of the darkest periods of her life, Christian music became an important source of hope. In particular, the music of Hawk Nelson helped her hold on when life felt overwhelming.

Think about that for a moment.

A young listener finds encouragement and hope through Christian music. Years later, she finds herself making that same kind of music for someone else who might be struggling, hurting, or wondering whether there’s any reason to keep going.

That’s a pretty remarkable full-circle story.

Grace has made it part of her mission to encourage others who are walking through difficult seasons. Her music doesn’t pretend that life is always easy, and it doesn’t suggest that faith means we never struggle. Instead, she wants people to know that their stories aren’t finished, that healing is possible, and that the love of Jesus is bigger than the things that have hurt them.

There’s a reason her music connects with people. She’s not singing about struggles from a distance. She’s writing from experience.

When Pop-Punk Meets Praise and Worship!

Now here’s another reason we think Grace is such a fun artist to discover!

Grace has developed a particularly exciting musical approach by taking familiar contemporary Christian worship songs and giving them a full pop-punk treatment.

And when we say pop-punk, we mean it!

Her PUNK X PRAISE vol. 1 project takes songs many Christian music fans already know and love and gives them an entirely different musical personality. The result is a collection that manages to feel both familiar and refreshingly different.

Imagine taking a worship song you might normally hear accompanied by acoustic guitars, piano, and a contemporary worship band, and giving it driving electric guitars, energetic drums, and a little punk-rock attitude.

It’s a lot of fun!

And there’s something especially wonderful about hearing familiar messages of praise presented in a different musical style. The musical arrangement may change, but the message of worship remains.


Apple Music subscribers: Sign in above to hear the full song.
Apple Music subscribers: Sign in above to hear the full song.
Apple Music subscribers: Sign in above to hear the full song.

We also love that Grace isn’t limiting herself to reimagining other people’s songs. She’s a songwriter with plenty of original things to say, and that’s where her latest album comes into the picture.

Sophomore Year โ€“ A Brand-New Chapter!

Released November 6, 2026, Sophomore Year is Grace’s second full-length original album, and it’s an important milestone in her musical journey.

The album features nine songs, including “Feels Like High School Again,” “Fire Drill,” “Jericho,” “I’m Trying,” “Misfit,” “Make Believe,” “Full Circle,” and “All Stars.”

There’s an interesting story behind the album title, too.

Grace describes the sophomore experience as a time when you’re still figuring things out, but you’re also gaining confidence and becoming more comfortable with who you are. That idea became the foundation for an album reflecting her own journey as an independent artist.

And that journey hasn’t always been easy.

Moving to Nashville, establishing herself in the Christian music community, learning the realities of the music business, and navigating the disappointments and challenges of pursuing a musical calling have all played a part in her development.

But something changed along the way. Grace began finding her people, discovering the community around her, and recognizing that she was right where she belonged.

The result is an album that celebrates growth, perseverance, and the importance of finding the people who encourage you to become who God created you to be.

A few songs particularly deserve your attention.

“Jericho” brings energetic rock and a biblical inspiration together in a song that fits Grace’s musical personality beautifully.


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“Make Believe” offers another glimpse into the relationships and encouragement that have helped Grace along her journey.


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And “All Stars” is especially meaningful, bringing together Grace, Adam Agee of Stellar Kart, and Josiah Prince of Disciple as co-writers. Those are some pretty wonderful Christian rock connections!


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If you’re looking for a place to begin exploring Grace’s original music, Sophomore Year is an excellent starting point.

A Full-Circle Connection With Christian Rock

We mentioned Hawk Nelson earlier, and there’s another wonderful connection worth sharing.

Grace eventually had the opportunity to collaborate with Jason Dunn, the founding vocalist and former frontman of Hawk Nelson.

Their song “This One’s For You,” featured on Grace’s Conversations EP, is especially meaningful given the role Hawk Nelson’s music played in her own story.

It’s one of those moments that reminds us just how interconnected the Christian music community can be.

The music that once encouraged Grace during a difficult season has become part of the foundation for her own musical ministry. And now she’s working alongside some of the very musicians whose music helped shape her journey.

We love stories like that!


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More Than Music โ€“ A Heart for Encouragement

Grace’s desire to encourage people extends beyond her songwriting and performances.

She’s also been involved in conversations about faith and mental health through her Breaking Through with Grace Graber podcast, produced through K-LOVE Podcasts.

The podcast brings together conversations with artists, advocates, and others who have meaningful experiences and perspectives to share about mental health, faith, and the challenges people face.

It’s an important subject, and we’re glad to see Christian artists using their platforms to remind people that struggling doesn’t mean they’re alone, and asking for help isn’t a failure of faith.

Sometimes the most powerful ministry isn’t simply singing about hope. It’s making sure someone who desperately needs hope knows where to find it.

That’s a message we can certainly get behind here at FishWorship.

Why Grace Graber Belongs on Your Playlist

There’s a lot to appreciate about Grace Graber.

She’s bringing an energetic musical style to Christian music, writing original songs that come from real experiences, finding creative ways to reimagine familiar worship favorites, and using her platform to encourage people who might be going through difficult seasons.

And she’s doing it with a sound that will make plenty of longtime Christian rock fans smile!

Whether you’re a longtime pop-punk fan, someone who enjoys discovering fresh interpretations of familiar worship songs, or simply looking for an artist whose music carries a message of hope, Grace Graber is absolutely worth checking out.

Her new album Sophomore Year is a great place to start, and there’s plenty more to discover throughout her growing collection of music.

We’re delighted to introduce Grace Graber as this week’s FishWorship Artist of the Week!

Now it’s your turn to discover Grace!

We invite you to visit our Grace Graber artist page here at FishWorship, where you can explore more of her music, learn more about her journey, and find links to connect with her musical world.

And if you discover a song you particularly love, we’d enjoy hearing about it!

After all, one of the things we love most about FishWorship is helping Christian music fans discover artists, songs, and stories that bring us closer to Jesus.

Happy listening!

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๐Ÿ’พ AI Worship Discovery

Welcome to AI Worship Discovery, our weekly exploration of Christian music created entirely with artificial intelligence. This emerging form of music combines technology and creativity to produce original songs of worship, praise, encouragement, and faith. Each week, we highlight AI-created Christian music that offers a glimpse into this fascinating new frontier while keeping the focus where it belongs: on the message of faith and the worship expressed through the music.

“Mighty to Save” – Celtic Metal Worship Cover

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What happens when one of contemporary Christian music’s most beloved praise songs meets the driving energy of Celtic metal? Well, we think the result is pretty spectacular! Today’s AI Worship Discovery takes us on a musical journey with a Celtic Metal Worship Cover of “Mighty to Save,” and it’s a wonderful reminder that the message of Jesus Christ can find a home in some pretty unexpected musical settings.

A Celtic Metal Celebration of Worship

Celtic music has a sound all its own. There’s something wonderfully distinctive about its traditional melodies, stirring rhythms, and instruments that seem to carry centuries of musical heritage. Now imagine bringing that musical character together with the power of heavy metal. Think driving guitars, pounding drums, soaring melodies, and the kind of dramatic musical atmosphere that makes you want to turn up the volume!

That’s the fascinating combination behind today’s discovery. Celtic metal brings together the traditional sounds and melodic character of Celtic music with the intensity and power of metal. The result can be both energetic and surprisingly majestic.

And what better song to explore in this musical setting than “Mighty to Save”? A song celebrating the power of our Savior, the victory of the resurrection, and the hope that Jesus offers to the world seems right at home in a musical arrangement that doesn’t hold anything back.

One of the things we enjoy about exploring AI worship music is discovering how familiar songs can take on entirely different personalities without losing the message that made them special in the first place. A Celtic metal arrangement might not be what you expect to hear on a Sunday morning, but there’s no reason that worship has to be confined to one particular musical style!

The Story Behind “Mighty to Save”

Now let’s take a little trip back in time.

“Mighty to Save” was written by Reuben Morgan and Ben Fielding and first released in 2006 by Hillsong Worship on the album of the same name. It quickly became one of the most recognizable contemporary worship songs of its generation, finding its way into churches and worship gatherings around the world.

But what makes this song so enduring?

At its heart, “Mighty to Save” is a declaration of the compassion, forgiveness, and saving power of Jesus Christ. Its opening message reminds us that everyone needs compassion and forgiveness. Regardless of our circumstances, our past mistakes, or the challenges we face, we all need the kindness of a Savior.

And then comes that magnificent chorus! The declaration that our God is mighty to save, that Jesus conquered the grave, and that He is the author of salvation is the very heart of the Christian message. It’s a celebration of the resurrection and a reminder that the greatest victory in history has already been won.

The song also carries a beautiful personal invitation. Its second verse moves from declaring what Jesus has done to responding to Him personally. We bring our fears and failures, surrender our lives, and choose to follow Him. It’s a reminder that worship isn’t simply about singing words of praise; it’s also about the lives we offer to Christ.

The song’s reach was remarkable. In 2009, “Mighty to Save” received the GMA Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year. It also became Hillsong’s first song to reach number one on the U.S. CCLI charts in February 2010. Over the years, numerous Christian artists have recorded their own interpretations, helping introduce the song to different audiences and musical traditions.

Perhaps the most beautiful part of its history is that a song written for worship in one church community became a declaration of faith shared by congregations across denominational and musical boundaries.

A Different Sound, The Same Powerful Message

And that brings us right back to today’s discovery!

We absolutely love the idea of taking a song with such a familiar place in contemporary Christian worship and hearing it reimagined through Celtic metal. It’s an unexpected musical combination, but that’s exactly what makes these discoveries so much fun.

Whether you enjoy traditional Celtic sounds, classic heavy metal, contemporary praise and worship, or simply appreciate hearing familiar Christian songs presented in new and imaginative ways, there’s something worth exploring here.

At the end of the day, the musical arrangement may change, the instruments may be different, and the energy may be turned up considerably, but the message remains the same: Jesus Christ is mighty to save!

That’s what makes sharing discoveries like this so enjoyable. Christian music continues to find new expressions, new audiences, and new ways to celebrate the timeless truth of the Gospel.

So turn up the volume, enjoy a little Celtic metal, and celebrate the Savior who conquered the grave!

Here at FishWorship, we’re delighted to bring you another unexpected musical adventure through the FishWorship AI Multiverse. Who knows what we’ll discover next?

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๐ŸŽถ Praise Song of the Week

Welcome to Praise Song of the Week! Each week, we choose a song that invites us to lift our voices, turn our hearts toward God, and celebrate the joy of worship. Along with this weekโ€™s featured praise song, weโ€™ll share a notable performance that brings the song to life in a special way. Take a listen, worship along, and enjoy this weekโ€™s selection!

“In Moments Like These” – Fountainview Academy


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There is something special about gathering around a campfire, putting aside the distractions of everyday life, and simply singing praises to Jesus. That’s exactly the atmosphere we get with this beautiful performance of “In Moments Like These” by Fountainview Academy. With the warmth of the campfire and the voices of young people joining together in song, this is a wonderful reminder that worship doesn’t require a big stage, elaborate production, or even a church building. Sometimes the most meaningful moments of praise happen when we simply gather together and turn our hearts toward the Lord.

“In Moments Like These” is one of those wonderfully uncomplicated songs that manages to say so much with so few words. Its message is an invitation to respond to the presence and goodness of Jesus with a song of love and an expression of praise. Whether singing out a love song to Jesus, lifting our hands to the Lord, or simply repeating the heartfelt words “I love You, Lord,” the song brings us back to the very heart of Christian worship: our personal relationship with our Savior.

The story behind this little worship classic is every bit as beautiful as the song itself. It was written by David Graham in 1980 during a family gathering in the mountains of northwest Montana. Graham had joined relatives for an afternoon barbecue at his cousin’s property in the beautiful Flathead Valley. Feeling particularly grateful for everything God had done in his life and family, he picked up his guitar and took a short walk up a hillside. As he sat beneath a tree, looking out over the surrounding scenery, he began strumming a few chords. The words and melody came together almost immediately, and within a very short time, “In Moments Like These” was born. What began as a spontaneous expression of gratitude during a quiet afternoon outdoors would eventually become a beloved worship song shared by Christians around the world.

Since its introduction, the song has found its way into churches, worship gatherings, and hymnals across numerous Christian traditions. Published in 1980, it has appeared in collections including Songs of Faith and Praise, The Celebration Hymnal, and the Baptist Hymnal 2008. Its simplicity has helped it transcend generations and musical styles. It doesn’t need complicated verses or a lengthy musical arrangement to communicate its message. In fact, its beauty is found precisely in its simplicity.

And perhaps that’s why the Fountainview Academy performance feels so appropriate. The original inspiration for the song came during an afternoon spent outdoors, surrounded by family and God’s beautiful creation. Here, we get another gathering in an outdoor setting, with young voices coming together around a campfire to share that same expression of love for Jesus. It’s a lovely full-circle moment, reminding us that worship can happen anywhere and that the most important ingredient isn’t the setting or the music, but the hearts of those doing the singing.

So take a few minutes today, enjoy this special performance, and perhaps sing along. Whatever kind of day you’re having, remember that there are always moments when we can pause, lift our hearts, and remind our Savior just how much we love Him. Sometimes a simple song is all we need to bring our attention back to what matters most.

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Christian Music You May Have Missed

Thereโ€™s always more great Christian music being released than any one of us can keep up with. So each week, weโ€™re highlighting some of the music you may have missedโ€”new music from familiar voices, emerging artists, and worship leaders who are giving us something worth hearing. Here are this weekโ€™s selections from Christian Music You May Have Missed!

๐ŸŽตSongs

Phil Wickham & CeCe Winans – “Peace On Earth”


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โ€œPeace On Earthโ€ brings together two powerhouse voices in Christian music, Phil Wickham and CeCe Winans, for a beautiful celebration of the peace that only Jesus can bring. With Wickham’s signature contemporary worship sound and Winans’ unmistakable gospel influence, the collaboration offers a wonderful reminder of the hope at the heart of the Christmas message. The song points beyond the familiar holiday imagery to the arrival of the Prince of Peace, inviting listeners to reflect on the incredible gift of God’s love and the promise of peace through Christ.

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Lecrae & Taylor Hill – “MADHOUSE II”


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โ€œMADHOUSE IIโ€ brings together Christian hip-hop heavyweight Lecrae and rising artist Taylor Hill for an energetic collaboration that explores the tension, chaos, and challenges of life in a world that often seems to have lost its way. With Lecrae’s unmistakable lyrical delivery and Taylor Hill adding another dimension to the track, the song delivers an unapologetic expression of faith amid the madness. It’s a reminder that following Jesus doesn’t mean escaping a troubled world, but finding purpose, direction, and an unshakable foundation in Him even when everything around us feels upside down.

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CAIN – “Thank You For My Whole Life”


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โ€œThank You For My Whole Lifeโ€ finds CAIN doing what they do so beautifully: turning everyday faith into an uplifting expression of gratitude. With their signature blend of contemporary Christian pop, warm harmonies, and heartfelt storytelling, the song celebrates the realization that every chapter of life, every answered prayer, every unexpected blessing, and even the difficult moments have been part of God’s greater story. Rather than simply thanking God for the good things along the way, CAIN offers a bigger expression of gratitude for the entire journey, reminding listeners that a life placed in God’s hands is something worth celebrating from beginning to end.

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For KING & COUNTRY – “Heart Of A Lion”


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โ€œHeart Of A Lionโ€ finds for KING & COUNTRY delivering the kind of powerful, cinematic anthem that has become a hallmark of their music. Driven by their signature energetic production, soaring vocals, and an inspiring message of courage, the song encourages listeners to face life’s challenges with strength and determination rather than surrendering to fear. Its central message speaks to the courage that comes from knowing who you are and where your strength ultimately comes from, offering an uplifting reminder that we don’t have to face the battles of life alone. It’s another compelling example of the duo’s ability to turn an inspirational message into an arena-sized musical experience.

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Jon Reddick – “The Wonder”


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โ€œThe Wonderโ€ finds Jon Reddick inviting listeners to rediscover the awe and amazement of encountering God’s goodness and grace. Known for his heartfelt worship style and ability to communicate profound spiritual truths through accessible, memorable melodies, Reddick delivers a song that encourages us not to become so familiar with our faith that we lose sight of just how extraordinary God’s love really is. It’s a beautiful reminder that the story of Jesus, the gift of salvation, and the opportunity to walk with Him each day should never become ordinary to us. Sometimes we simply need to pause, look again, and allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by the wonder of it all.

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Chris Tomlin – “The Manger To The Cross”


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โ€œThe Manger To The Crossโ€ brings Chris Tomlin’s familiar worship sensibilities to a message that captures the entire story of Jesus, from His humble birth in Bethlehem to His ultimate sacrifice at Calvary. Especially meaningful during the Christmas season, the song encourages listeners to look beyond the beauty and celebration of the manger and remember why Jesus came into the world in the first place. His birth was the beginning of a journey that would lead to the cross, offering salvation, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. It’s a timely reminder that the true meaning of Christmas cannot be separated from the incredible love demonstrated through Christ’s sacrifice.

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Tommee Profitt & Stephen Stanley – “Little Drummer Boy (What Can I Give)”


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โ€œLittle Drummer Boy (What Can I Give)โ€ receives a fresh, cinematic treatment from producer and songwriter Tommee Profitt, joined by Christian artist Stephen Stanley. Building on the familiar Christmas classic, the reimagined arrangement brings dramatic production and emotional intensity to the timeless story of a young boy who has nothing material to offer the newborn King but his willingness to give what he can. At its heart, the song reminds us that God isn’t looking for impressive gifts or grand gestures, but rather hearts that are willing to offer Him whatever they have. It’s a beautiful Christmas reflection on the simple but powerful truth that our greatest gift to Jesus is ourselves.

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Ellie Holcomb – “Waterfalling”


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Apple Music subscribers: Sign in above to hear the full song.


โ€œWaterfallingโ€ showcases Ellie Holcomb’s gift for combining thoughtful songwriting, warm melodies, and deeply meaningful expressions of faith. With her distinctive vocal style and heartfelt approach, Holcomb offers a refreshing reminder of the overwhelming, abundant nature of God’s love and grace. The song invites listeners to consider how God’s goodness continually pours into our lives, even when circumstances make it difficult to recognize. It’s the kind of beautifully crafted musical reflection that encourages us to slow down, open our hearts, and appreciate the incredible generosity of a God whose love never runs dry.

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Leanna Crawford – “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”


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Apple Music subscribers: Sign in above to hear the full song.


Leanna Crawford brings her beautiful, expressive vocals to โ€œHave Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,โ€ offering a fresh interpretation of one of the most beloved songs in the Christmas music catalog. With its familiar melody, nostalgic charm, and gentle holiday warmth, the recording provides a lovely opportunity to enjoy Crawford’s artistry in a different musical setting. Her contemporary vocal style gives the classic a fresh feel while preserving the sentiment that has made it a holiday favorite for generations. It’s a wonderful seasonal addition and a reminder to slow down, cherish the people around us, and make room for the joy and togetherness that make Christmas so special.

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Seph Schlueter – “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”


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Seph Schlueter brings his distinctive contemporary worship sound to โ€œHark! The Herald Angels Sing,โ€ breathing fresh life into one of the most cherished hymns of the Christmas season. Originally written by Charles Wesley, this timeless carol celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and the incredible news of God’s love arriving in human form. Schlueter’s heartfelt vocal delivery and modern musical approach offer a fresh way to experience the familiar words while preserving the powerful message at their center. It’s a wonderful reminder that Christmas is ultimately a celebration of the Savior, and that the good news proclaimed by the angels more than two thousand years ago is just as meaningful today.

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๐Ÿ” Monday Memories

Welcome to Monday Memories, where we take a look back at the Christian songs, artists, albums, and moments that have helped shape the music we love. From timeless favorites to songs that may have slipped from memory, each week we revisit a piece of Christian music history and remember why it still matters today.

Amy Grant – Age to Age


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In 1982, a young Amy Grant released an album that would change the landscape of contemporary Christian music. Its name was Age to Age, and its impact would be felt for decades. In much the same way that Michael Jackson’s Thriller redefined mainstream pop music, Age to Age raised the bar for what Christian music could accomplish. It became a commercial phenomenon, introduced millions of listeners to a new sound, and helped establish Amy Grant as one of the most influential artists Christian music had ever seen.

That’s a pretty extraordinary legacy for one album. And perhaps what’s even more remarkable is that the comparison to Thriller isn’t something we came up with decades later. In a 1986 Christian Science Monitor profile, the publication itself described Age to Age as the contemporary Christian rock scene’s equivalent of Thriller. That’s quite a statement, but the history behind the album makes it difficult to argue otherwise.

A New Chapter for Christian Music

By the time Age to Age arrived, Amy Grant was already an established name in Christian music. She had released several albums, developed a following, and demonstrated that she was a talented young singer with a bright future. But 1982 would prove to be a turning point, both for Amy and for the entire contemporary Christian music industry.

Produced by Brown Bannister, Age to Age brought together polished pop arrangements, memorable melodies, thoughtful songwriting, and a distinctly contemporary sound. It was accessible without sacrificing its Christian message, and it demonstrated that music celebrating faith could compete creatively and commercially with anything else on the musical landscape.

This wasn’t simply an album aimed at an established Christian audience. It was a recording that had the potential to reach listeners well beyond the traditional boundaries of Christian music. And reach them it did.

Songs That Became Part of Christian Music History

One of the great strengths of Age to Age is its collection of songs. This is an album where the individual tracks deserve to be remembered just as much as the remarkable success of the record itself.

Of course, there’s “El Shaddai.” Written by Michael Card and John Thompson, the song would become one of the most recognizable recordings of Amy’s career. Its beautiful melody, powerful lyrics, and reverent expression of worship made it an enduring favorite. The song’s title, referring to one of the Hebrew names for God, gives the recording a particularly meaningful foundation. Decades later, “El Shaddai” remains one of those songs that can transport listeners right back to a special time in Christian music.

Then there’s “Sing Your Praise to the Lord,” written by Rich Mullins. With its energetic delivery and unmistakable enthusiasm, it became another major success from the album. It was an invitation to worship, to celebrate, and to make praise an active part of everyday life. It’s difficult to hear that song without feeling the joy that went into making it.

“In a Little While” offered another memorable moment, while “I Have Decided” brought a heartfelt expression of commitment to following Jesus. “Arms of Love” provided a beautiful closing statement, reminding listeners of the comfort and security found in God’s love.

And let’s not overlook the rest of the album! From “I Love a Lonely Day” and “Don’t Run Away” to the wonderfully playful “Fat Baby,” Age to Age offered variety and personality. It wasn’t a collection of songs that all sounded alike. It was a thoughtfully assembled album with a little something different around every corner.

That combination of memorable songwriting, strong performances, and excellent production helped make the album something listeners wanted to return to again and again.

An Extraordinary Commercial Achievement

The numbers behind Age to Age are every bit as impressive as the music.

The album reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Inspirational Albums chart, where it remained for an astonishing 85 weeks. Think about that for a moment. More than a year and a half at the top of the chart! That’s not just a successful Christian music album. That’s a phenomenon.

In November 1983, Age to Age became the first album by a solo Christian artist to receive Gold certification. In June 1985, it reached Platinum status, becoming the first Christian album to achieve that distinction in the United States.

The album also earned Amy her first Grammy Award, winning Best Gospel Performance, Contemporary, at the 1983 Grammy Awards. It received significant recognition from the Gospel Music Association as well, including Dove Awards for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year and other honors.

These weren’t simply awards and sales figures. They represented something much bigger: Christian music was reaching a new level of visibility and acceptance, and Amy Grant was leading the way.

The People Behind the Music

While Amy Grant was unquestionably the face and voice of Age to Age, the album’s success was also the result of tremendous songwriting, musicianship, and production.

Producer Brown Bannister deserves special recognition. His work helped give the album its distinctive sound, balancing contemporary pop sensibilities with the substance and sincerity of its Christian message. His production helped establish a musical direction that would influence Christian recordings for years to come.

Michael Card and John Thompson gave us “El Shaddai,” while Rich Mullins contributed “Sing Your Praise to the Lord.” These were songwriters whose contributions would extend far beyond this one recording.

And that is another part of what makes Age to Age so special. It brought together some remarkable creative talents at just the right moment, resulting in a collection of songs that would become part of the foundation of contemporary Christian music.

An Album That Helped Change Everything

Perhaps the most important thing about Age to Age isn’t its chart position, its certifications, or even its awards. It’s what the album made possible.

Christian music had already produced many wonderful artists and recordings, but Age to Age demonstrated just how far the genre could go. It helped open doors, broaden audiences, and establish a new standard for contemporary Christian artists.

Amy Grant would go on to enjoy an extraordinary career, eventually reaching audiences across both Christian and mainstream music. But Age to Age was the album that helped make that journey possible. It was the breakthrough that changed the trajectory of her career and helped change the expectations of an entire industry.

And its influence didn’t stop with Amy. The generations of Christian artists who followed benefited from the doors opened by recordings like this one. The idea that Christian music could be beautifully produced, commercially successful, musically adventurous, and unapologetically centered on faith became increasingly accepted.

Today, more than four decades later, Christian music is a remarkably diverse world, filled with artists working across virtually every musical genre. From contemporary worship and Christian pop to rock, country, gospel, and beyond, there’s an incredible amount of music bringing people closer to Jesus.

It’s worth remembering that albums like Age to Age helped pave the way.

A Monday Memories Classic

So, if you’ve never spent time with Age to Age, here’s your opportunity to discover an important piece of Christian music history. And if you remember when this album first arrived, perhaps listening again will bring back a few memories of your own.

For those who were there, it was an exciting time. For those who came along later, it’s a chance to appreciate just how much this recording accomplished.

Age to Age wasn’t simply another Amy Grant album. It was a landmark, a breakthrough, and a defining moment for contemporary Christian music.

And that’s why, all these years later, we’re still talking about it.

Thank you, Amy, for giving Christian music an album that truly stood the test of time.

Want to enjoy more of Amy Grant’s incredible music? Visit her Artist Page here at FishWorship and explore more of the songs and albums that have made her such an enduring part of Christian music history!

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๐Ÿ“– Hymn of the Week

Thereโ€™s something timeless about the great hymns of the Christian faith. Though many were written generations ago, their words continue to speak to the heart, proclaim the truth of Scripture, and lead us into worship. Hymn of the Week is for everyone who believes these beloved hymns should always have a place in modern worship. Each week, weโ€™ll take a moment to revisit one of these enduring songs of faith and celebrate the message, story, and music that have helped generations of believers worship God.

Battle Hymn of the Republic: Have We Become a Nation That Has Forgotten How to Sacrifice for Something Bigger Than Ourselves?

FishWorship Hymn of the Week | David Phelps โ€“ Hymnal

There are songs that entertain us, songs that inspire us, and songs that remind us of who we are and what we stand for. And then there are songs that seem to reach beyond the moment, connecting us to something much larger than ourselves. This week’s Hymn of the Week is one of those songs: “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” as performed by David Phelps on his Hymnal album.

Few songs in American history carry the combination of religious conviction, national identity, historical significance, and sheer musical grandeur found in this beloved hymn. Its unmistakable melody and stirring words have accompanied generations of Americans, becoming part of the musical vocabulary of our nation’s patriotism.

But the story behind the song is considerably more complicated than its familiar place in American musical life might suggest. Born during one of the most divisive and consequential periods in our nation’s history, the hymn was written in support of one side of a devastating military conflict. Its imagery invokes divine judgment, apocalyptic warfare, and the conviction that the struggle unfolding before the country was part of God’s greater purposes.

That history raises some fascinating questions, not only about the song itself, but about patriotism, faith, national responsibility, and our willingness to make sacrifices for something bigger than ourselves.

And perhaps there’s no better time to ask one of those questions:

Have we become a nation that has forgotten how to sacrifice for something bigger than ourselves?

The Birth of a Song During America’s Greatest National Crisis

To understand “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” we need to return to 1861, when America was descending into the Civil War.

The country was coming apart. Southern states had seceded, the Union was fighting for its survival, and the question of slavery had become inseparable from the future of the nation. Families, communities, and entire regions were divided over what America should become.

The song’s musical roots actually predate the lyrics most Americans know today. Its melody was associated with the religious camp-meeting song “Say, Brothers, Will You Meet Us,” and subsequently became associated with “John Brown’s Body,” a marching song popular among Union soldiers.

John Brown, of course, was the abolitionist whose 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry sought to initiate an armed uprising against slavery. He was captured and executed, becoming a controversial martyr to many abolitionists. Union soldiers adapted songs and verses about Brown, eventually developing the familiar marching melody.

Enter Julia Ward Howe.

Howe was an abolitionist, writer, and social reformer who traveled to Washington, D.C., during the Civil War. In November 1861, she visited a Union Army encampment with her husband, Samuel Gridley Howe, and other members of their party. During the visit, she heard soldiers singing “John Brown’s Body.”

The story goes that Reverend James Freeman Clarke, who was accompanying the group, suggested that Howe write more appropriate lyrics for the familiar melody.

She reportedly awoke in the early morning hours of November 19, 1861, with words taking shape in her mind. She wrote them down, and the result was a poem that would become one of America’s most recognizable songs.

The poem was published in The Atlantic Monthly in February 1862, under the title “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

What began as a new set of lyrics for a familiar marching tune quickly became something much bigger.

A Hymn of Faith, Warfare, and Divine Judgment

One reason “Battle Hymn of the Republic” has endured is that it doesn’t approach the Civil War as merely a political disagreement or a military confrontation. Its lyrics frame the conflict in intensely religious terms.

The imagery is unmistakably biblical and apocalyptic. The song invokes divine judgment, the coming of the Lord, the sounding of the trumpet, and the idea that God’s truth is advancing through the events unfolding in America.

Its central message is that righteousness will ultimately prevail and that the struggle against slavery is part of a greater moral reckoning.

This was not simply a song encouraging soldiers to march forward. It was a declaration of faith that the conflict had profound moral and spiritual significance.

And therein lies one of the hymn’s most interesting controversies.

Howe was writing from the Union and abolitionist perspective. Her lyrics connected the Union cause with God’s judgment and the eventual triumph of righteousness. In doing so, the song effectively presented one side of a political and military conflict as being aligned with divine purposes.

That raises an important theological question: When does patriotism become an attempt to claim God for our own political cause?

There is a danger in assuming that God automatically endorses our nation’s military objectives, our political leaders, or even our understanding of what righteousness requires. History offers plenty of examples of people invoking divine authority to justify actions that deserve serious moral scrutiny.

And yet, we shouldn’t overlook the historical context of Howe’s convictions, while also recognizing that the subject of human servitude is considerably more complicated than a simple confrontation between good and evil. Systems of slavery, servanthood, and social hierarchy existed across civilizations long before the founding of America, and throughout much of human history, societies established different classes of people with vastly different rights, responsibilities, and privileges. Even Scripture acknowledges the existence of masters and servants, providing instruction concerning their treatment without explicitly calling for the wholesale dismantling of those established social structures. America’s own experience with slavery became one of the defining controversies of its history, and the Civil War ultimately transformed the nation’s understanding of freedom, citizenship, and human rights. But the historical journey that brought us here deserves more than a simplified interpretation in which one side represents absolute righteousness and the other absolute evil. Much like the hymn itself, the way we remember and interpret that struggle has been shaped by powerful moral and political narratives. We can recognize the profound consequences of emancipation and the transformation of American society while still acknowledging that humanity’s historical understanding of servitude, freedom, and the responsibilities of those who hold power is a far more complicated subject than we sometimes allow.

The hymn’s religious imagery reflected a conviction that this was a struggle with consequences far beyond the battlefield.

We can appreciate that conviction while still recognizing the theological dangers of declaring that God is exclusively on our side.

That distinction is important. Faith should inform our understanding of patriotism, but patriotism should never presume to own God.

From a Civil War Battle Song to an American Patriotic Treasure

One of the most fascinating things about “Battle Hymn of the Republic” is how dramatically its identity has evolved.

When Julia Ward Howe wrote those words, she wasn’t attempting to create a universal American patriotic anthem. She was writing a song rooted in the Union cause, the abolitionist movement, and the belief that the Civil War represented a profound moral confrontation.

Yet over the generations, the song gradually transcended its original political and military circumstances.

Today, it occupies a place in American musical life alongside songs such as “God Bless America” and “America the Beautiful.” Each has a different history and a different message, but all three have become familiar expressions of American identity, gratitude, and national pride.

The transformation of “Battle Hymn” is particularly remarkable because its original lyrics never abandoned their religious conviction or their imagery of judgment. Instead, Americans increasingly found broader meaning in the song’s themes of perseverance, sacrifice, justice, freedom, and national purpose.

Its music has been used in presidential ceremonies, national commemorations, military observances, and moments of profound historical significance. Its words have even been embraced by people pursuing causes that extend well beyond the original Union-versus-Confederacy conflict.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for example, drew upon the hymn in his final sermon in Memphis in April 1968, invoking its opening words as he spoke about the struggle for justice and the future of America.

Of course, whether invoking the hymn’s powerful religious imagery was an appropriate way for Dr. King to frame his own cause is also a matter worthy of discussion. His struggle for civil rights was rooted in a specific historical conflict, and his public message was central to his approach. Nevertheless, his use of the hymn illustrates a broader point: throughout history, people have drawn upon religious language and imagery to give their causes a sense of divine purpose and moral certainty. Whether that is appropriate, and where the line should be drawn between genuine faith and the human tendency to portray our own causes as instruments of God’s will, are questions worth considering.

That is quite a journey for a song originally written to accompany the cause of one side in a Civil War.

And perhaps that journey tells us something important.

A song can begin with a very specific historical purpose and eventually become something larger. Its meaning can evolve as successive generations discover new reasons to embrace its message.

We believe that’s precisely what has happened with “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

We don’t have to ignore its origins, overlook its controversies, or pretend that every interpretation of its lyrics has been appropriate to appreciate what it has become.

In fact, understanding its history makes us appreciate it even more.

Because at its heart is a message that remains extraordinarily powerful: that there are things worth fighting for, principles worth defending, and purposes worth pursuing even when doing so requires something of us.

And that brings us to a subject that we believe deserves considerably more attention in America today.

Have We Become a Nation That Has Forgotten How to Sacrifice for Something Bigger Than Ourselves?

There is something remarkable about the generation of Americans who lived through the Civil War.

At the same time, we should resist reducing an entire historical period to a single narrative, recognizing that the lives, experiences, and social realities of those who lived through it were often far more complicated than popular portrayals suggest. Even so, the country was deeply divided, many Americans opposed the war, some actively resisted military service, and the human suffering was almost unimaginable.

But the country was confronted with a defining national crisis, one whose outcome would determine the future of the United States and the lives of generations yet unborn.

Americans were forced to confront questions that extended far beyond their immediate personal circumstances.

What kind of country would America become? Would the Union survive? Would slavery continue? What would the nation stand for when the conflict was finally over?

These weren’t abstract philosophical questions. They were questions with very real consequences, and answering them required enormous sacrifices.

Families lost loved ones. Businesses and communities suffered. Soldiers endured terrible conditions, and ordinary Americans experienced hardships that most of us today can scarcely imagine.

Yet the nation persevered.

And while Americans disagreed profoundly about the war, millions ultimately participated in, supported, or endured a national undertaking whose consequences would reshape the country.

We can’t help but wonder whether our generation possesses that same willingness to look beyond ourselves.

Consider the contemporary American political environment. Economic concerns, particularly the cost of gasoline and groceries, have become powerful influences on how Americans evaluate their government and choose their political leaders.

To be clear, we understand why people care about these things. Providing for our families is important. Financial security matters. Nobody should be expected to pretend that rising expenses are inconsequential, particularly when household budgets are already stretched.

But we believe there’s a larger question that deserves consideration.

Should the immediate cost of living become the overriding consideration in determining the direction of our country?

What happens when accomplishing something worthwhile requires an investment? What happens when rebuilding domestic industries, strengthening national security, changing our international trade relationships, or reducing long-term dependencies requires some temporary economic discomfort?

What happens when the right long-term decision isn’t necessarily the easiest short-term decision?

Are we still capable of looking beyond our own immediate circumstances?

We recognize that Americans can reasonably disagree about whether particular policies are worthwhile, whether the anticipated benefits justify their costs, and whether the people proposing those policies have the right approach. No president should be exempt from scrutiny, and no political movement should be entitled to unquestioning loyalty.

But we worry that our political culture increasingly rewards immediate gratification over thoughtful consideration of the future.

We see political decisions increasingly filtered through partisan resentment, personal economic circumstances, and emotional reactions to the personalities involved.

And we wonder whether something important has been lost along the way.

A nation cannot accomplish much if its citizens demand that every worthwhile undertaking make their individual circumstances better immediately. Some of the most important things a country can do require patience, investment, perseverance, and a willingness to accept that the benefits might not be immediately apparent.

Consider the generations who built America’s infrastructure, expanded its industrial capacity, fought its wars, and invested in institutions that their children and grandchildren would inherit.

They weren’t simply asking what America could do for them.

They were helping determine what America could become.

That’s an important distinction.

We don’t believe that every economic sacrifice is automatically justified by invoking patriotism. Nor do we believe that supporting a particular president is a test of whether someone loves their country.

But we do believe that Americans have a responsibility to consider more than their own immediate interests when making decisions about the nation’s future.

And that responsibility extends to every political party and every generation.

“Not If It Affects Me Negatively in Any Way”

There’s a line from the television comedy Will & Grace that seems particularly appropriate here.

Grace, expressing an attitude toward something she doesn’t want to do, responds:

“Not if it affects me negatively in any way.”

It’s a funny line in the context of a sitcom. But we find ourselves wondering how much of that philosophy has found its way into the American electorate.

Imagine approaching every national decision with that attitude.

Not if it makes gasoline more expensive.

Not if it makes groceries more expensive.

Not if it requires me to change something about my lifestyle.

Not if it means accepting some inconvenience today for a potential benefit tomorrow.

Not if it requires me to put the interests of my country ahead of my own immediate preferences.

Of course, none of those concerns is inherently unreasonable.

But when they become the overriding consideration in every decision, we have a problem.

Because sometimes the right thing to do isn’t the easiest thing to do.

Sometimes protecting something valuable requires an investment. Sometimes accomplishing a worthwhile objective requires patience. Sometimes the benefits of a decision won’t be fully realized until years after the people who made it have left the scene.

And sometimes doing what is best for the greater good means accepting that our own circumstances might not improve immediately.

We think that’s a particularly important consideration in today’s political environment.

It’s entirely reasonable to question Donald Trump’s policies, disagree with his economic approach, or believe that another political vision would better serve the country. But we should also be willing to evaluate individual proposals on their merits rather than automatically rejecting them because of the person proposing them.

Political opposition is healthy. Blind partisan hostility is not.

Likewise, supporting a president shouldn’t mean abandoning independent judgment or excusing every decision.

We need an electorate capable of distinguishing between a genuinely bad policy and a potentially worthwhile national undertaking that involves difficult adjustments.

And we need citizens willing to consider the consequences of the alternatives, not simply the immediate satisfaction of voting against something they dislike.

Voting is not merely an exercise in expressing personal satisfaction or dissatisfaction. It is an exercise in making decisions about the future of an entire country.

That responsibility deserves more consideration than simply asking which candidate promises to make our individual lives more comfortable.

Patriotism Is About Something Bigger Than Politics

We want to be clear about something: patriotism isn’t blind loyalty to a president, a political party, or even every decision our government makes.

A genuinely patriotic American should be able to criticize their government, challenge its leaders, and advocate for a different direction when they believe the country is headed down the wrong path.

That’s part of what makes America worth loving.

But patriotism should also mean recognizing that we share something larger than our individual political preferences.

We share a country. We share a history. We share responsibilities to our fellow citizens. And we share an obligation to consider what kind of nation we’re leaving to those who come after us.

We can disagree about how to accomplish that objective without losing sight of the objective itself.

And perhaps that’s one of the most important lessons we can take from the evolution of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

A song that began as a declaration of one side’s convictions during America’s bloodiest internal conflict eventually became a musical expression of American identity that could be embraced by generations of Americans with very different political beliefs.

Its enduring appeal isn’t simply that it celebrates military victory. It’s that it speaks to the conviction that some things are worth pursuing beyond our own individual interests.

We believe that kind of all-in patriotism is something America needs more of, not less.

Not unquestioning patriotism. Not patriotism that demands everyone think alike. Not patriotism that mistakes political loyalty for love of country.

But patriotism that recognizes our responsibilities to one another and our obligation to something greater than ourselves.

And perhaps most importantly, patriotism that understands that the future of our country is worth caring about even when the work required to secure that future isn’t particularly comfortable.

A Christian Perspective: Sacrifice, Service, and the Greater Good

There’s another reason we think this conversation belongs in FishWorship.

The Christian faith itself challenges us to look beyond our own immediate interests.

Jesus didn’t teach that we should serve others only when doing so is convenient. He didn’t suggest that loving our neighbors should be conditional upon whether it benefits us personally.

Quite the opposite.

Christianity places enormous emphasis on selflessness, service, humility, and sacrifice. Jesus gave His life for others. He called His followers to love their neighbors, care for those in need, and put their faith into action.

The idea that we should occasionally accept personal costs for the benefit of others isn’t foreign to Christianity. It’s fundamental to it.

And while we should never confuse our political preferences with God’s will, we can certainly apply Christian principles when considering our responsibilities as citizens.

What would happen if more Americans approached their citizenship with that same spirit?

What if we spent less time asking what our country owes us and more time considering what we owe one another?

What if we were willing to accept some personal inconvenience when doing so served a worthwhile purpose?

What if we thought more about the America our grandchildren will inherit than the price of our next tank of gasoline?

Those aren’t Republican questions or Democratic questions. They’re questions about character, responsibility, and the kind of people we want to be.

And they’re questions worth asking.

His Truth Is Marching On

There’s a reason “Battle Hymn of the Republic” has survived for more than 160 years.

Its origins are complicated. Its religious imagery is intense. Its original political and military associations remain subjects worth examining. And its history reminds us that even a beloved patriotic song can carry difficult questions about faith, power, and the use of God’s name in human conflicts.

But we believe its journey from a Civil War marching song to a treasured American hymn is something worth celebrating.

Today, we can hear it as a reminder of the ideals that have shaped our country, the sacrifices that have helped preserve it, and the responsibility each generation has to determine what America will become.

We don’t have to agree on every political question to agree that our country is worth caring about.

We don’t have to support every government policy to recognize that some national objectives are worth pursuing even when the path is difficult.

And we don’t have to live in the 1860s to appreciate the importance of believing in something bigger than ourselves.

Perhaps that’s the message we need to hear today.

Not that America needs to return to some imagined era when everyone agreed about everything. That era never existed.

But that we need to rediscover the willingness to look beyond our individual circumstances, recognize our responsibilities to one another, and understand that the future of our nation is something we all have a stake in.

Have we become a nation that has forgotten how to sacrifice for something bigger than ourselves?

We hope not.

And we hope songs like “Battle Hymn of the Republic” can continue reminding us that patriotism, faith, and a commitment to something greater than ourselves are worth holding onto.

As the hymn so powerfully declares:

His truth is marching on.

Now, after considering the history and meaning behind this remarkable hymn, take a few minutes to enjoy David Phelps’s performance. And there’s something especially sweet about this one: David is joined on stage by his wife, Lori, and their two daughters. Off stage, these ladies are every bit as sweet, genuine, and down-to-earth as you could hope to meetโ€”truly salt-of-the-earth people. David, of course, has a long history in gospel music, having first joined the legendary Gaither Vocal Band in 1997. Over the years, his extraordinary tenor voice became a familiar favorite among Gaither fans, and it’s wonderful to see him sharing this musical moment with his family. There’s something special about a family coming together to lift up a song of faith.


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God bless America, and may we never forget that the greatest things in life are rarely accomplished by thinking only of ourselves.

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๐ŸŽถ New This Week

Every week brings a fresh batch of Christian music into the worldโ€”new albums, EPs, and songs from artists we know and artists we’re just discovering. New This Week is our chance to explore some of the music that has just been released, learn a little about the artists and their new music, and perhaps discover something that deserves a place in your playlist. So let’s take a look at what’s New This Week in Christian music!

๐Ÿ’ฟAlbums

Chris Tomlin – Good News Of Great Joy (Christmas Songs Of Worship)


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Chris Tomlin welcomes the Christmas season with Good News Of Great Joy (Christmas Songs Of Worship), an 11-track collection that keeps the birth of Jesus and the hope of the Gospel at the center of the celebration. Featuring new songs like โ€œGood News Of Great Joyโ€ and โ€œThe Manger To The Cross,โ€ the album moves from the wonder of Christโ€™s arrival in Bethlehem to the redemption made possible through His sacrifice. Tomlin also gives listeners fresh seasonal takes on โ€œJoy To The World (Unspeakable Joy)โ€ and โ€œHoly Forever (Christmas),โ€ alongside the familiar carol โ€œGod Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (Comfort And Joy)โ€ and a collaboration with Terrian on โ€œDay Of All Days.โ€ From joyful Christmas celebration to heartfelt worship, this is a collection designed to remind us that the greatest gift of Christmas is Jesus Himself.

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We Are Messengers – Rejoice! (A Celtic Christmas LIVE)


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We Are Messengers brings a distinctly Irish flavor to the Christmas season with Rejoice! (A Celtic Christmas LIVE), a nine-track live collection featuring spirited new performances of beloved Christmas carols and hymns. Drawing on the band’s Irish heritage, the arrangements bring traditional Celtic instrumentation and lively energy to songs like โ€œHark! The Herald Angels Sing,โ€ โ€œO Come, O Come Emmanuel,โ€ and โ€œWe Three Kings,โ€ while more reflective selections such as โ€œIn the Bleak Midwinterโ€ and โ€œO Holy Nightโ€ offer moments of beautiful seasonal worship. The collection also includes โ€œThe Wexford Carolโ€ and โ€œCome Thou Long Expected Jesus (Rejoice),โ€ celebrating the long-awaited arrival of Christ. Recorded live, these performances add an extra sense of warmth and excitement to a Christmas collection that feels both timeless and refreshingly different. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus with a little Celtic joy!

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Big Daddy Weave – It’s Time for Christmas (EP)


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Big Daddy Weave is bringing some festive cheer to the Christmas season with It’s Time for Christmas, a five-song EP marking the group’s first collection of seasonal music since 2009’s Christ Is Come. The project blends four familiar holiday favorites with an original title track, giving listeners a fun and nostalgic mix of Christmas sounds. The tracklist includes a medley of โ€œIt’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,โ€ the classic โ€œMary, Did You Know?,โ€ and cheerful seasonal standards โ€œRockin’ Around the Christmas Treeโ€ and โ€œThe Christmas Song.โ€ The original โ€œIt’s Time for Christmasโ€ adds a little extra holiday personality, complete with the nostalgia and pop-culture references that make this time of year special. Whether you’re in the mood for a familiar Christmas favorite or a reminder of the wonder surrounding Christ’s birth, Big Daddy Weave offers a little something to brighten the season.

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LO Worship – The Drought Is Over (Live from LO Conference)


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LO Worship, the worship collective born out of Sadie Robertson Huff’s Live Original movement, captures the energy and heart of a powerful live worship gathering with The Drought Is Over (Live from LO Conference). Recorded before more than 4,000 women at the sold-out LO Sister Conference, this nine-track project is filled with songs celebrating God’s faithfulness, the hope found in Jesus, and the confidence that His promises never fail. The title track, featuring Anna Golden, draws inspiration from the biblical account of Elijah in 1 Kings 18, declaring that God is still working even when we cannot yet see the answer. The album also features โ€œThe Perfect Love of Jesus,โ€ with Jenn Johnson, along with โ€œI Remind Myself,โ€ โ€œAlways On Time,โ€ and energetic worship medleys including โ€œCenter / Worthyโ€ and โ€œI Thank God / Glorious Day.โ€ The collection closes with a 26-minute message from Sadie Robertson Huff, followed by a reprise of the title track. It’s an uplifting live worship experience built around a powerful reminder: even in the middle of life’s driest seasons, our hope is found in the faithfulness of God.

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Grace Graber – Sophomore Year


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Grace Graber turns the page to an exciting new chapter with Sophomore Year, her second full-length album and a nine-song showcase of her energetic Christian pop-punk sound. Written over the course of three years, the album reflects on the growing pains of finding your place, overcoming disappointment, discovering the people who truly belong in your corner, and learning to recognize God’s hand in the journey. Songs like โ€œFire Drillโ€ capture the frustration of unexpected hurt, while โ€œFeels Like Highschoolโ€ explores the sometimes-complicated experience of finding acceptance and belonging. The album also features โ€œMake Believe,โ€ a heartfelt reflection on the importance of having people who believe in you, and โ€œAll Stars,โ€ co-written with Adam Agee of Stellar Kart and Josiah Prince of Disciple. From its punchy pop-punk energy to its more reflective moments, Sophomore Year is ultimately a story of healing, faith, perseverance, and discovering that God has been placing the right people in your life all along. Grace Graber is definitely an artist worth keeping an eye on as she helps bring Christian pop-punk to a new generation.

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The Band JAREN – O Holy Night (EP)


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Christian sister duo The Band JAREN celebrates the Christmas season with O Holy Night, a four-song EP that showcases their powerful vocals, classical music backgrounds, and contemporary Christian sound. Newly signed to Provident Entertainment, sisters Jaren and Jade bring their own musical personality to a collection of familiar Christmas favorites, opening with a stirring rendition of โ€œO Holy Night.โ€ The project also features โ€œThe One We’ve Waited For (God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen),โ€ a creative pairing of a beloved traditional carol with a reminder of the long-awaited arrival of Jesus, along with โ€œCarol Of The Bells / Sing We Now Of Christmasโ€ and a festive โ€œWhite Christmas Medley.โ€ Blending classical instrumentation with contemporary pop and rock influences, The Band JAREN delivers a Christmas collection that highlights both their musical talent and their desire to lead listeners toward the Lord. It’s a promising introduction to this rising duo’s next chapter!

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Anita Ranae – Dwell in Hope (EP)


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Anita Ranae offers a gentle, soul-refreshing collection of folk-inspired worship with Dwell in Hope, a five-song EP centered on finding comfort, strength, and hope in Jesus through life’s difficult seasons. Featuring warm acoustic guitar, beautiful vocal melodies, and thoughtfully understated arrangements, the project feels intimate and deeply personal. The title track opens with a Psalm-inspired invitation to speak hope to our own souls, while โ€œBe Our Refugeโ€ reminds listeners that God remains our shelter even when the world around us feels chaotic. โ€œGod of All Comfortโ€ draws encouragement from Scripture, โ€œYou Are Who You Areโ€ turns our attention directly to the identity and promises of Jesus, and the closing song, โ€œHave Your Way in Me,โ€ offers a heartfelt expression of surrender. From beginning to end, Dwell in Hope is a beautiful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find peace and reassurance by keeping our eyes fixed on Christ.

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Scroll Eater – In The Mouth Of The Prophet (EP)


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Scroll Eater brings a dark, atmospheric, and Scripture-driven sound to the Christian metal scene with In The Mouth Of The Prophet, a three-track EP released through Facedown Records. Described as a prophetic metal project forged in Scripture, Scroll Eater approaches each song as a chapter in a larger spiritual journey, combining crushing doom-metal heaviness, haunting atmosphere, and powerful biblical imagery. โ€œConsume The Scrollโ€ opens the collection, followed by โ€œDeliver The Word,โ€ featuring Jackson Scott, and the newly released โ€œBehold The Glory,โ€ featuring Bethany Franco. The project’s central inspiration is the weight and responsibility of God’s Word, drawing listeners into themes of revelation, proclamation, and the glory of the Lord. This is not a conventional worship release, but an intense and uncompromising musical expression of biblical truth that gives Christian metal fans something decidedly different to explore.

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๐ŸŽตSongs

Forrest Frank (feat. Lecrae & KB) – “Go! Go! Go!”


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Forrest Frank teams up with two of Christian hip-hop’s biggest names, Lecrae and KB, for the energetic new single โ€œGo! Go! Go!โ€ Released through River House Records, this upbeat, piano-driven rap anthem delivers a simple but powerful message about trusting God and being ready to follow wherever He leads. Built around the memorable declaration, โ€œIf God says go, you gotta go,โ€ the three artists take turns encouraging listeners to step out in faith, share the Gospel, strengthen those who are struggling, and make Jesus the center of everything. The lyrics draw on familiar biblical themes, including the calling of Isaiah, Jesus feeding the five thousand, and Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water. With its playful energy, infectious hook, and unmistakably Christ-centered message, โ€œGo! Go! Go!โ€ is a spirited reminder that following Jesus means being willing to say yes when He calls.

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Phil Wickham (feat. CeCe Winans) – “Peace on Earth”


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Phil Wickham joins forces with legendary Gospel vocalist CeCe Winans for โ€œPeace on Earth,โ€ a beautiful new Christmas single celebrating the hope and salvation brought into the world through the birth of Jesus Christ. The song opens with an invitation to hearts searching for hope and healing, reminding us that even in a world filled with uncertainty and division, the message of Christ still shines brightly. As the music builds, Wickham and Winans sing of the heavenly light that leads us out of darkness and the Savior who offers restoration, new life, and peace through every generation. The song’s powerful closing moments bring everything together with a declaration that Jesus is the Savior and our true peace on earth, before transitioning into the familiar words of โ€œO Come, All Ye Faithful.โ€ With two remarkable voices blending contemporary worship and Gospel music, this is a moving Christmas reminder that the greatest source of peace in our world is found in Jesus.

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Steven Curtis Chapman – “10,000 Reasons (Greater Things)”


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Steven Curtis Chapman puts a meaningful new spin on one of contemporary Christian music’s most beloved worship songs with โ€œ10,000 Reasons (Greater Things).โ€ Originally written by Matt Redman and Jonas Myrin, โ€œ10,000 Reasonsโ€ has become a modern worship classic, and Chapman has reimagined it as a celebration of God’s incredible faithfulness through the work of Show Hope, the adoption ministry he and his wife, Mary Beth, founded in 2003. The new recording marks a remarkable milestone: more than 10,000 children have been helped home to loving families through Show Hope’s work. Chapman incorporates a special new ending, โ€œGreater Things,โ€ inspired by Ephesians 3:20 and the immeasurably more God can accomplish than we could ever ask or imagine. It’s a beautiful marriage of worship and testimony, offering 10,000 very real reasons to praise the Lord for His goodness, provision, and faithfulness.

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Ellie Holcomb – “Waterfalling”


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Ellie Holcomb returns with โ€œWaterfalling,โ€ an uplifting new single that encourages listeners to let go of their worries and place their complete trust in God’s unwavering love. Inspired by the kind of carefree, childlike faith that allows us to run toward God with open arms, the song uses the imagery of a trust fall to remind us that our Heavenly Father is always there to catch us. Holcomb describes it as an invitation to embrace a โ€œwild-abandoned trustโ€ in God’s steady love, encouraging us to step back from the noise and anxiety of everyday life and remember just how faithfully He cares for us. With her signature blend of warm folk-pop melodies, heartfelt vocals, and Scripture-rooted songwriting, โ€œWaterfallingโ€ is a beautiful reminder that we don’t have to carry every burden ourselves. We can rest in the assurance that we are deeply loved by God, and that He will take good care of us. The single also gives listeners another taste of Holcomb’s upcoming fifth studio album, Flowers For No Reason, scheduled for release April 2, 2027.

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The Choir Room (feat. Dorinda Clark-Cole) – “Better Than This”


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The Choir Room brings together its powerful community of gospel singers with legendary vocalist Dorinda Clark-Cole for โ€œBetter Than This,โ€ an uplifting new single filled with hope, encouragement, and faith in God’s goodness. Led by Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Dwan Hill, The Choir Room has built a reputation for bringing together voices from different generations and musical backgrounds to create music that celebrates the Gospel, and this collaboration is another wonderful example. The song actually began as an idea Clark-Cole started writing more than 20 years ago, finally coming to life through her collaboration with Hill and songwriter Javier Ordenes. With Clark-Cole’s unmistakable Gospel vocals backed by The Choir Room’s rich, energetic sound, โ€œBetter Than Thisโ€ delivers an encouraging message about trusting God through difficult circumstances and believing that brighter days are ahead. It’s a joyful reminder that our hope is in the Lord, and that no matter what we’re facing today, we can keep believing that God has something better in store.

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Presence Music (feat. Joel Vaughn & Avenue Music) – “The Darkness Didn’t Know”


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Presence Music joins forces with Joel Vaughn and Avenue Music for โ€œThe Darkness Didn’t Know,โ€ a deeply moving Christmas single that connects the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem with His sacrifice on the cross and ultimate victory over the grave. The song was written just three days after Presence Music vocalist Leah Monson experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, and that personal grief became the inspiration for a powerful declaration of hope in Christ. Rather than ignoring the pain and darkness that can accompany life’s most difficult seasons, the song reminds us that God is still working, even when we cannot understand what He is doing. Its lyrics trace the story of Jesus from the manger to the empty tomb, celebrating the Light that darkness could never overcome and the eternal hope made possible through His resurrection. Featuring Joel Vaughn and Avenue Music, with Vaughn also producing the recording, this is much more than a traditional Christmas song. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the Child born in Bethlehem came to defeat sin and death, and that for those who put their trust in Him, darkness never gets the final word.

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River Valley Worship – “Come and Behold”


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River Valley Worship invites listeners to turn their hearts toward the true meaning of Christmas with โ€œCome and Behold,โ€ a beautiful new worship single celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Built around the familiar biblical invitation to come and see the Savior, the song paints a picture of that first Christmas night in Bethlehem, when the angels proclaimed His arrival and the King of Kings entered the world as a humble child. Its lyrics move beyond the manger to celebrate the salvation Jesus came to bring, declaring Him Emmanuel, God with us, and the Savior whose kingdom will never end. With an uplifting worship arrangement and a powerful, congregational chorus, River Valley Worship creates a song that feels equally at home in personal devotion and corporate Christmas worship. โ€œCome and Beholdโ€ is a wonderful reminder to pause amid the busyness of the season, turn our attention to Jesus, and celebrate the greatest gift ever given.

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Vineyard Worship – “Jesus Our Christ”


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Vineyard Worship offers a beautiful, acoustic-centered celebration of the Savior’s arrival with โ€œJesus Our Christ,โ€ a new single that invites listeners to reflect on the wonder and mystery of the incarnation. Written by Joff Alexander-Frye, Marc James, Lucy Biggin, and Zac Carpenter, the song explores the extraordinary truth that the all-powerful God chose to enter our world in the vulnerable form of a newborn child. Its lyrics move beyond the manger, celebrating Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, the suffering servant, and the King who came to bring forgiveness, peace, and redemption to a broken world. Recorded live at Fox Den Studios in Sheffield, England, the song features a warm, organic musical arrangement that allows its message to shine. With its repeated declaration of โ€œGlory to God in the highest,โ€ โ€œJesus Our Christโ€ is a heartfelt worship offering that brings the Christmas story into focus and reminds us exactly who we celebrate: Jesus, our Savior and our King.

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Tasha Layton & Dave Barnes – “What Should I Get You for Christmas”


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Tasha Layton teams up with singer-songwriter Dave Barnes for โ€œWhat Should I Get You for Christmas,โ€ a playful and heartwarming holiday collaboration that brings a little romantic fun to the Christmas season. With a cheerful melody, charming vocal interplay, and a touch of classic Christmas-pop nostalgia, the two artists explore the familiar challenge of finding that perfect gift for someone you love. Rather than focusing on expensive presents or elaborate holiday surprises, the song celebrates the joy of simply wanting to make someone special feel loved. Layton’s bright, expressive vocals pair wonderfully with Barnes’ warm, laid-back style, giving the track an easygoing charm that makes it feel right at home alongside the season’s favorite holiday duets. While this one is more of a lighthearted Christmas love song than a worship offering, it’s a fun seasonal release from two talented artists who know how to bring a little extra joy to the holidays.

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Olivia Lane – “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”


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Olivia Lane brings a fresh, contemporary country-pop touch to one of the most beloved Christmas hymns of all time with her new recording of โ€œHark! The Herald Angels Sing.โ€ Originally written in the 18th century, this timeless carol celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, proclaiming the arrival of the newborn King and the peace and reconciliation He came to bring. Lane’s expressive vocals and upbeat musical style give the familiar hymn a lively seasonal feel while preserving its unmistakably Christian message. With its joyful celebration of Emmanuel, God with us, and the heavenly announcement of the Savior’s birth, this is a wonderful addition to the Christmas music season. It’s another opportunity to hear a familiar Christmas favorite through the voice of an artist who has embraced Christian music, and a reminder of the incredible good news at the heart of Christmas: Jesus Christ has come!

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Hunter Plake – “Holly Jolly Christmas”


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Hunter Plake brings his distinctive pop-rock style to the Christmas classic โ€œHolly Jolly Christmas,โ€ delivering a lively and upbeat rendition of one of the season’s most recognizable holiday favorites. Originally popularized by Burl Ives, this cheerful song has been a Christmas staple for generations, celebrating the fun, excitement, and simple pleasures of the holiday season. Plake gives the familiar tune a fresh contemporary sound, pairing his expressive vocals with an energetic arrangement that feels right at home on a modern Christmas playlist. While this one is more about enjoying the festive side of the season than presenting a specifically Christian message, it’s a fun holiday release from an artist with a strong connection to the Christian music community. Sometimes a little musical Christmas cheer is exactly what the season calls for!

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Garrett & Kate Serban – “O Come All Ye Faithful / All Hail King Jesus”


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Bethel Music’s Garett and Kate Serban bring together two powerful expressions of Christian worship in their new Christmas single, โ€œO Come All Ye Faithful / All Hail King Jesus.โ€ This live-recorded medley begins with the beloved traditional Christmas carol, inviting listeners to come and adore the newborn King, before transitioning into the modern worship anthem โ€œAll Hail King Jesus.โ€ The combination beautifully connects the story of Christ’s humble arrival in Bethlehem with the glory of the risen Savior who conquered the grave and reigns forevermore. Garett and Kate explain that their heart behind the recording was to bring a familiar Christmas favorite together with a song the global Church has been singing for years, creating a worship experience that churches and families can share throughout the season. With its powerful message and natural progression from the manger to the throne, this is a wonderful Christmas offering that keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on Jesus, the Savior of the world!

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Brian Andrew Wilson & Lola Falana – “O Holy Night!”


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Gospel vocalist Bryan Andrew Wilson joins forces with legendary entertainer Lola Falana for a soulful new rendition of the Christmas classic โ€œO Holy Night!โ€ Wilson brings his smooth, expressive tenor to the opening verses, setting the stage for Falana, who makes a remarkable return to recording after more than 30 years away from performing. Falana contributes a moving spoken-word reflection on the birth of Jesus, adding a deeply personal touch before the arrangement builds into a rich orchestral and Gospel-inspired celebration. Produced by Nelson Braxton of the Braxton Brothers, the recording blends elements of spiritual soul, jazz, and traditional Gospel music to give this beloved carol a distinctive new sound. The result is a beautiful celebration of the night our Savior was born, reminding listeners of the extraordinary hope and redemption brought into the world through Jesus Christ. The single also offers a preview of Wilson’s forthcoming Christmas album, Is It Christmas Yet?

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Allen Scott – “Loser”


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Allan Scott delivers a powerful personal testimony of redemption with โ€œLoser,โ€ an energetic contemporary Christian single about discovering that the labels we once carried no longer define us when we surrender our lives to Jesus. Drawing from his own history of addiction, bad decisions, and time spent in prison, Scott turns the word โ€œloserโ€ completely upside down, celebrating the things he has lost through God’s transforming grace: guilt, shame, addiction, and the chains that once controlled his life. The song’s memorable chorus declares that he has become a โ€œloser of guiltโ€ and a โ€œloser of shameโ€ because he found forgiveness when he called on Jesus’ name. It’s an especially meaningful message from an artist whose own life is living proof of the hope and restoration he sings about. With driving rhythms, honest vocals, and an unmistakably Gospel-centered message, โ€œLoserโ€ reminds us that no past is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and that what we leave behind when we follow Jesus is nothing compared to what we gain in Him.

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๐Ÿ† Artist of the Week

Each week, FishWorship shines a spotlight on a Christian artist whose impact reaches beyond the music itself. From established voices to emerging artists finding their own place in Christian music, our Artist of the Week series celebrates those who bring something meaningful to the genre through their faith, creativity, songwriting, and unique perspective. Our goal is to introduce listeners to artists worth discovering and recognize the many ways Christian music continues to grow, inspire, and make a difference.

“Ellie Holcomb”


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Some artists have a remarkable ability to take the everyday experiences of life and turn them into songs that speak directly to the heart. Whether writing about the faithfulness of God, the challenges we face along life’s journey, the beauty of creation, or the simple reminder that we are loved more than we sometimes realize, Ellie Holcomb has developed a musical style that is both deeply personal and wonderfully uplifting. With a voice that feels warm and inviting, thoughtful songwriting, and a heart for sharing the truth of God’s Word, Ellie has become a treasured voice in contemporary Christian music. This week, FishWorship is delighted to shine the spotlight on Ellie Holcomb as our Artist of the Week!

Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Ellie grew up surrounded by music. Her father, Brown Bannister, is an accomplished music producer who has worked with numerous well-known Christian artists. That musical environment helped shape Ellie’s appreciation for songwriting and the power of music to communicate something meaningful. However, her own journey into the music industry would take a somewhat different path than simply stepping into a solo career.

For eight years, Ellie toured and recorded with her husband Drew Holcomb’s band, Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors. During that time, she developed her skills as a performer and songwriter while sharing the stage with a group that built a devoted following through its distinctive blend of Americana, folk, and roots-inspired rock. Eventually, as the couple began raising a family, Ellie stepped away from full-time touring to focus on motherhood and the next chapter of her musical journey. That chapter would bring her into the spotlight as a solo recording artist.

In 2014, Ellie released her solo debut album, As Sure As The Sun. The record introduced listeners to a songwriter whose music was filled with hope, honesty, and an unmistakable foundation of faith. Its single, “The Broken Beautiful,” connected with Christian radio audiences and became a Top 10 hit. The song’s message was particularly representative of Ellie’s approach to songwriting: our brokenness does not place us beyond the reach of God’s love, and there is beauty in the grace He offers us. The album also helped establish Ellie as a rising voice in Christian music, earning her the GMA Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.

Her second solo album, Red Sea Road, arrived in 2017 and continued to demonstrate her ability to combine beautiful melodies with deeply meaningful lyrics. Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea, the album explored themes of perseverance, trust, hope, and God’s faithfulness when the road ahead seems uncertain. The title track became a particularly memorable expression of the album’s message, reminding listeners that even when we cannot see a way forward, God is still present and able to make a way. It was another important step in establishing the kind of music Ellie wanted to share with the world: songs that acknowledge the difficulties of life without ever losing sight of the hope we have in Jesus.

In 2021, Ellie released Canyon, another beautiful collection of songs that explored faith, family, relationships, and the many experiences that shape our lives. One of its standout tracks, “I Will Carry You,” became a Top 10 Christian radio hit. The song is a heartfelt reminder of God’s sustaining presence and His promise to walk alongside us through life’s most difficult moments. Its message of comfort and reassurance is one of the reasons Ellie’s music resonates with so many listeners. She doesn’t pretend that life is always easy, but she consistently points toward the One who remains faithful through every season.

Other songs from Canyon, including “Constellations” and “I Don’t Want To Miss It,” further demonstrated her musical versatility. “Constellations” beautifully reflects on the wonder of creation and the God who holds everything together, while “I Don’t Want To Miss It” encourages listeners to pay attention to the precious moments and blessings that can so easily pass us by. These songs capture another important element of Ellie’s songwriting: an appreciation for the extraordinary things God reveals through the seemingly ordinary experiences of everyday life.

One of Ellie’s most distinctive projects arrived in 2024 with the release of All Of My Days. Rather than simply presenting another collection of original songs, this special project was built around Scripture from the Book of Psalms. The seven-song collection features musical interpretations inspired by some of David’s most meaningful expressions of praise, dependence, honesty, and trust in God. Songs such as “All Of My Days – Psalm 23,” “Where Can I Go – Psalm 139,” “I Lift My Eyes – Psalm 121,” and “Wait For You – Psalm 130” bring familiar passages of Scripture into a musical setting that invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and consider the enduring promises found in God’s Word.

Ellie has explained that the Psalms have been a source of encouragement throughout her own life, particularly because they allow room for the full range of human emotions. David’s words contain praise, doubt, fear, repentance, gratitude, and unwavering dependence on God. That honesty is something Ellie appreciates, and it is reflected throughout the project. All Of My Days is a wonderful example of how Christian music can do more than simply entertain. It can help bring Scripture into our daily lives, remind us of truths we may need to hear again, and encourage us to turn toward God in every circumstance. The acoustic performance of the title track is especially fitting for listeners who appreciate a more intimate, stripped-down musical experience.

Ellie’s musical interests also extend well beyond songs written for adult audiences. She has developed a wonderful collection of children’s books, many accompanied by original music. Her debut children’s book, Who Sang The First Song?, introduced young readers to the idea that the beauty of music and creation ultimately points back to the Creator. Other projects, including Don’t Forget to Remember and Sounding Joy, continue that emphasis on helping children discover biblical truths through storytelling and song. Her children’s music project Sing: Remembering Songs earned a GMA Dove Award, further demonstrating that her creativity and commitment to sharing faith-filled messages reach audiences of all ages.

In addition to her music and children’s books, Ellie has also shared her faith through writing for adults. Her devotional, Fighting Words: 100 Days of Speaking Truth into the Darkness, encourages readers to recognize the importance of speaking God’s truth over the negative thoughts, fears, and discouragement that can sometimes overwhelm us. It is another reflection of a central theme throughout her work: the importance of remembering what God says about us, especially during the seasons when we need those reminders most.

In 2025, Ellie continued her musical journey with the release of Far Country, a deeply personal album exploring the experience of grief, uncertainty, and discovering God’s presence even in difficult circumstances. The project demonstrated another side of her songwriting, one that doesn’t shy away from the harder questions and emotions of life. Rather than offering easy answers, Ellie creates space for listeners to acknowledge their struggles while remembering that God has not abandoned them. The album is a reminder that faith does not mean we will never experience sorrow. It means we never have to walk through it alone.

That same year also brought a special musical collaboration with her husband, Drew. The couple released Memory Bank, their first full-length collaborative album, bringing together two decades of shared life, musical experiences, and songwriting. Their musical partnership is a natural extension of the relationship that has been part of both of their careers from the beginning. It also gives listeners an opportunity to hear the two artists working together in a more personal way.

And Ellie isn’t slowing down in 2026! Her recent music includes “Promised Land,” a collaboration with Drew, and “Flowers For No Reason,” which offers a joyful reminder of the ways God reveals His love through creation and the unexpected gifts of everyday life. The latter also serves as the title track for her upcoming fifth studio album, Flowers For No Reason, scheduled for release on April 2, 2027. Announced on November 6, the forthcoming album promises to explore God’s love, the beauty of creation, renewed joy, and the freedom that comes from understanding that we are deeply loved by Him. Alongside the album announcement, Ellie has shared another new song, “Waterfalling,” an invitation to let go of our worries and place our trust in God’s unwavering love. It’s an exciting new chapter for an artist whose music has always made room for both honest reflection and joyful celebration.

What makes Ellie Holcomb such a wonderful artist to feature is the consistency of the message running through her work. Whether she’s singing about the promises found in Scripture, the comfort of knowing God is carrying us, the beauty of creation, or the challenges of navigating life’s uncertain moments, her music continually points listeners toward Jesus. She has built a career that embraces both the joy and the struggles of the Christian experience, reminding us that God’s love is not dependent on our circumstances or our ability to get everything right.

At FishWorship, we love discovering artists whose music does more than fill the silence. We love artists who give us something to think about, something to hold onto, and sometimes a much-needed reminder of the goodness and faithfulness of God. Ellie Holcomb does all of those things with a musical style that is uniquely her own.

So this week, take a little time to get acquainted with Ellie Holcomb if you haven’t already. Explore her albums, discover the Scripture-inspired songs on All Of My Days, revisit favorites like “I Will Carry You” and “Red Sea Road,” and enjoy the beautiful musical storytelling that has made her such a special part of Christian music.

And remember, sometimes the most important thing we can do is slow down long enough to recognize just how much we are loved by our Heavenly Father.

Congratulations to Ellie Holcomb, our FishWorship Artist of the Week!

Visit Ellie’s artist page here on FishWorship to explore her music, discover her albums, watch more videos, and get to know the heart behind the songs that continue to inspire and encourage listeners!

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๐Ÿ’พ AI Worship Discovery

Welcome to AI Worship Discovery, our weekly exploration of Christian music created entirely with artificial intelligence. This emerging form of music combines technology and creativity to produce original songs of worship, praise, encouragement, and faith. Each week, we highlight AI-created Christian music that offers a glimpse into this fascinating new frontier while keeping the focus where it belongs: on the message of faith and the worship expressed through the music.

“Power In The Blood” – AI-created Hair Metal

A Hair Metal Revival of a Timeless Hymn

Welcome to FishWorship AI Discovery, where timeless Christian music, familiar hymns, and the creative possibilities of artificial intelligence come together in some rather unexpected ways! This week, we’re taking a beloved old hymn of faith and giving it a completely different sound. So crank up those speakers, turn up the guitars, and get ready for an AI-created Hair Metal Version of “Power in the Blood”!

If you’ve ever wondered what might happen if a traditional church hymn wandered into a recording studio in the 1980s, found itself surrounded by Marshall amplifiers, electric guitars, pounding drums, and soaring rock vocals, well, this might be just what you were imagining!

“Power in the Blood” is one of those hymns that seems almost tailor-made for a big, powerful musical treatment. Its message is bold, its lyrics are unapologetic, and its central theme is one of the most important declarations of the Christian faith: the saving power of the blood of Jesus Christ.

And while the original hymn might bring to mind a church congregation singing together from a hymnal, this new interpretation takes that same message and wraps it in the larger-than-life musical energy of hair metal. Think driving guitar riffs, dramatic vocals, and a chorus that practically begs to be sung at the top of your lungs.

Of course, the musical style may be different, but the message hasn’t changed one bit. That’s part of what makes these musical discoveries so much fun. A song written more than a century ago can still find a new audience, a new sound, and perhaps even a new appreciation among listeners who might never have encountered it otherwise.

Before we get too carried away with the guitars, though, let’s take a look at where this remarkable hymn came from.

A Hymn Born at a Camp Meeting in 1899

The story of “Power in the Blood” begins with a man named Lewis Edgar Jones (1865โ€“1936). Jones was an American hymn writer who spent much of his professional life working with the YMCA. Although he wrote many hymns and gospel songs during his lifetime, this particular composition would become his best-known contribution to Christian music.

According to Jones himself, he wrote “Power in the Blood” in 1899 while attending a camp meeting at Mountain Lake Park in Maryland. The manuscript eventually came into the hands of Henry L. Gilmour, who purchased it from Jones. Gilmour and William J. Kirkpatrick subsequently included the hymn in Songs of Praise and Victory, published in Philadelphia in 1899. It also appeared that same year in another collection, Gospel Praises.

It’s an interesting bit of history because Jones wasn’t primarily known as a professional musician or touring gospel performer. Hymn writing was something he pursued alongside his YMCA work. He reportedly wrote more than 180 songs, but it was this one that would become a lasting favorite in churches across America and eventually around the world.

The hymn’s original title is often given as “Would You Be Free from Your Burden of Sin?” That’s actually the opening line of its first verse, and it gets right to the heart of the song’s message. Rather than simply offering a general expression of encouragement, Jones wrote a series of questions directed at the listener:

Would you be free from the burden of sin? Would you overcome evil? Would you be free from passion and pride? Would you serve Jesus as your King?

Each question leads back to the same emphatic answer: there is wonderful, wonder-working power in the blood of the Lamb.

That language comes directly from the central message of the New Testament. For Christians, the blood of Jesus represents His sacrifice on the cross, the forgiveness of sin, redemption, and the promise of new life through faith. Revelation 1:5 speaks of Jesus loving us and freeing us from our sins by His blood, while Ephesians 1:7 describes redemption and forgiveness through Christ.

The hymn isn’t suggesting that the blood of Jesus is some kind of magical formula. It’s proclaiming the Christian belief that what Jesus accomplished at Calvary has the power to change lives, forgive sin, and reconcile humanity to God.

And there’s a reason the chorus has endured for well over a century. It’s simple, memorable, energetic, and extraordinarily easy for a congregation to sing together. The repeated declaration of “power, power, wonder-working power” gives the song an almost celebratory quality. It is both a testimony and an invitation.

In fact, the hymn has appeared in hundreds of hymnals over the years, demonstrating just how widely it has been embraced by different Christian traditions.

From Hymnals to Country, Gospel, and CCM

One of the fascinating things about “Power in the Blood” is how many different musical communities have embraced it. This isn’t a hymn that belongs to just one denomination, one generation, or one particular style of Christian music. It has traveled from traditional church services to country gospel recordings, bluegrass performances, Southern Gospel concerts, and contemporary worship settings.

Over the decades, a remarkable collection of professional artists have recorded or performed this beloved hymn.

Among the country music performers is Alan Jackson, who included “There Is Power in the Blood” on his 2013 album Precious Memories: Volume II. Jackson’s warm, unmistakable country voice is a natural fit for traditional gospel material, and his recording offers a straightforward, heartfelt interpretation that keeps the focus on the hymn itself.

Another country music legend to embrace the song was Marty Robbins, whose recording is another example of the hymn’s longstanding appeal in country gospel music.

The list doesn’t stop there. The Sons of the Pioneers brought their distinctive Western harmony tradition to the song, while Burl Ives and Wayne Newton also recorded it.

And then there’s the incomparable gospel vocalist Mahalia Jackson, whose powerful voice and extraordinary ability to communicate the emotion of gospel music made her one of the most influential gospel performers of the twentieth century.

The hymn has also found a home among artists more closely associated with Southern Gospel and contemporary Christian music.

The Charlie Daniels Band offered its own interpretation in 2002, bringing a different musical personality to the traditional hymn. Contemporary Christian group Selah recorded it in 2004, introducing the song to another generation of Christian music listeners.

More recently, Keith and Kristyn Getty have included the hymn in their repertoire, continuing the tradition of presenting historic Christian songs to contemporary audiences.

And for those who enjoy the powerful vocal arrangements and musical fellowship of Southern Gospel, the Gaither Homecoming family has also kept the hymn alive. A Homecoming gathering featured gospel vocalist Angela Primm performing “Power in the Blood,” with the kind of spirited presentation that makes you want to stand up and sing along.

There are also more recent interpretations from artists such as Tommy Walker, who has brought the hymn into a contemporary worship setting with guitars, piano, organ, drums, and choir.

It’s quite a musical journey for a song that began at a Maryland camp meeting in 1899!

And that’s really the beauty of a great Christian hymn. The arrangement can change. The instrumentation can change. The generation listening can change. But the message remains the same.

And Finally, Dolly Parton: A Precious Memory

We saved one very special artist for last.

Dolly Parton recorded “Power in the Blood” for her 1999 gospel album Precious Memories. And if you haven’t heard this particular collection, it’s worth seeking out. The album includes some of the most beloved hymns and traditional gospel songs, including “Amazing Grace,” “In the Garden,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” “Softly and Tenderly,” and, of course, “Power in the Blood.”

Originally released exclusively at Dollywood, the album was particularly meaningful to Dolly. She explained that gospel music had been an important part of her life growing up in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, where religion was part of everyday life. The album’s proceeds also benefited the Dollywood Foundation.

For Dolly, Christian faith wasn’t simply another musical genre or a convenient part of her public image. Her faith was woven into her upbringing, her family, her music, and the way she spoke about life. She grew up singing gospel music with her family, and throughout her extraordinary career she continued returning to the hymns and spiritual songs that had shaped her childhood.

Of course, Dolly became one of the most recognizable entertainers in the world. Her songwriting, unmistakable voice, humor, generosity, and larger-than-life personality made her an international treasure. But beneath all the rhinestones, wigs, and spectacular performances was a woman who never seemed to lose sight of where she came from or the faith that helped shape her.

Sadly, Dolly passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Her passing was a tremendous loss for the music world, for Tennessee, and for the millions of people who had grown up enjoying her music. Her legacy, however, extends far beyond record sales and awards. From her extraordinary charitable work through the Imagination Library to her generosity toward others, Dolly left behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and love.

And so, today, we wanted to finish our exploration of “Power in the Blood” with Dolly’s recording.

Not with another guitar solo or another musical experiment, but with a moment to remember a remarkable woman, her enduring legacy, and the Christian faith that remained an important part of her life.

Dolly, thank you for the music, the laughter, the generosity, and the memories. And thank you for reminding us that no matter how far life takes us, there’s something special about the songs we learned along the way.

Rest in peace, Dolly. Your music will continue to bring joy to generations to come.

Listen: Dolly Parton โ€“ Power in the Blood

From Dolly’s 1999 gospel album, Precious Memories.

You can listen to Dolly Parton’s beautiful rendition of “Power in the Blood” below. It’s our musical tribute to her memory and a fitting way to close out this week’s AI Worship Discovery.


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And that’s this week’s FishWorship AI Worship Discovery!

Who would have imagined that a hymn written in 1899 could find its way into a hair metal recording more than 125 years later? That’s the wonderful thing about music. New sounds and new interpretations can introduce us to old favorites, but the message that inspired those songs can remain timeless.

Whether you prefer your “Power in the Blood” with a traditional church organ, a country guitar, a Southern Gospel choir, or a wall of screaming electric guitars, there’s one thing we can all agree on:

There is still wonder-working power in the blood of Jesus!

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