Top 25 African-American Gospel Singers Redefining Worship Music in 2024
Gospel music has long been a cornerstone of African-American culture, deeply intertwined with the spiritual and social lives of its community. Over the years, the genre has not only served as a means of worship but also as a voice for social justice, hope, and community resilience. In 2024, gospel music continues to evolve, with African-American gospel singers pushing boundaries, redefining worship, and reaching global audiences.
These 25 artists stand out as leading voices in the genre, blending traditional gospel roots with modern musical influences to create a new era of worship.
Contents:
Kirk Franklin
Kirk Franklin is an undisputed pioneer in gospel music and continues to redefine the genre. With his innovative fusion of gospel, hip-hop, and R&B, Franklin has been breaking barriers for decades.
In 2024, he remains a driving force, producing powerful music and mentoring the next generation of gospel artists.
What to Watch For:
- New collaborations with younger gospel artists.
- Inspirational concerts and live worship experiences.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s powerful voice and anointed worship style have made her one of the most influential gospel artists today.
Known for her breakout hit “Break Every Chain,” she continues to release chart-topping worship music. Cobbs Leonard’s blend of traditional gospel and contemporary worship has redefined modern gospel music.
What to Watch For:
- Upcoming albums focusing on deeper worship themes.
- Large-scale worship events and global tours.
Travis Greene
Travis Greene is known for his dynamic worship music and heart for ministry. His ability to weave stories of personal faith into his music has captured the hearts of millions. Greene’s songs like “Intentional” and “Made a Way” have become anthems in churches around the world.
What to Watch For:
- New worship albums that push creative boundaries.
- Continued leadership in worship movements around the globe.
Jonathan McReynolds
Jonathan McReynolds has a unique sound that blends gospel, soul, and acoustic styles. His music often explores deep theological concepts in a way that is relatable to a broad audience.
His transparency in his music has made him a favorite among millennials and Gen Z gospel listeners.
What to Watch For:
- Inspirational live performances and intimate worship sessions.
- New music exploring social issues and personal faith.
Jekalyn Carr
At just 26 years old, Jekalyn Carr has already made a lasting impact on gospel music. Carr’s powerful voice and inspirational messages resonate with listeners of all ages. Her songs, including “You’re Bigger” and “You Will Win,” are staples in worship services worldwide.
What to Watch For:
- New music that challenges listeners to deepen their faith.
- Continued influence as a preacher and motivational speaker.
Mali Music
Mali Music brings a refreshing, soulful sound to gospel. Blending gospel, R&B, and soul, his music has a universal appeal while maintaining a strong spiritual foundation. His album “The Transition of Mali” has made him a standout voice in modern gospel.
What to Watch For:
- Genre-blurring projects that merge gospel with mainstream music.
- International tours and live performances.
Kierra Sheard
Kierra Sheard, daughter of gospel legend Karen Clark-Sheard, has established herself as a powerful voice in her own right. Her music combines traditional gospel with contemporary styles, and her album “Kierra” has been a significant success.
What to Watch For:
- New projects that fuse worship with innovative soundscapes.
- Continued work in gospel choirs and mentorship of young artists.
Le’Andria Johnson
Le’Andria Johnson’s raw, heartfelt style of worship has earned her a dedicated following. She is known for her transparency and her ability to minister through music in a way that touches hearts. Johnson’s authenticity sets her apart from many gospel artists.
What to Watch For:
- Personal testimonies woven into new music projects.
- Powerful worship experiences and conferences.
Chandler Moore
Chandler Moore, a member of the worship collective Maverick City Music, has quickly risen to fame. His anointed voice and ability to lead worship with vulnerability and passion have made him a sought-after worship leader. Moore’s collaborations with artists across genres have expanded his reach even further.
What to Watch For:
- Continued work with Maverick City Music and solo projects.
- New worship anthems that will impact churches globally.
Doe Jones
Doe, a former member of Forever Jones, has stepped into her own as a solo artist. Her unique voice and contemporary worship style make her a rising star in the gospel world. Songs like “Brighter” have showcased her ability to fuse pop, worship, and gospel into a cohesive sound.
What to Watch For:
- Cross-genre collaborations and international tours.
- New worship albums that blend joy and reflection.
Bryan Andrew Wilson
Bryan Andrew Wilson has been in the gospel music industry for decades, but his music continues to evolve. Known for his soulful voice and ability to cross between traditional and contemporary gospel, Wilson has redefined worship for many.
What to Watch For:
- New projects that explore worship through diverse musical lenses.
- Continued involvement in mentorship and ministry.
Tye Tribbett
Tye Tribbett’s energetic and creative approach to gospel music has always set him apart. His music combines elements of rock, hip-hop, and gospel, creating an explosive worship experience. His 2024 projects promise to be just as groundbreaking as his past work.
What to Watch For:
- New music videos and live worship experiences.
- Continued leadership in gospel choirs and youth ministry.
Kelontae Gavin
Kelontae Gavin’s youthful energy and powerful voice have made him a rising star in the gospel scene. His debut album “The Higher Experience” was well-received, and his live performances are filled with passion and worship.
What to Watch For:
- Inspirational singles and worship albums.
- Dynamic performances in both large and intimate worship settings.
Jaime Grace
Jaime Grace brings a fresh, contemporary sound to the gospel. Her music combines pop, folk, and worship in a way that appeals to younger audiences. Grace’s authentic and joyful approach to music is redefining what gospel can sound like.
What to Watch For:
- New albums and live shows that engage younger listeners.
- Cross-genre projects that push gospel into mainstream music.
Todd Dulaney
Todd Dulaney’s athletic career may have ended, but his gospel career is just getting started. Known for his worship anthems like “Your Great Name,” Dulaney has become a key voice in contemporary worship music.
What to Watch For:
- New albums focused on worship and spiritual warfare.
- Continued success in live worship experiences worldwide.
Gene Moore
Gene Moore’s smooth vocals and R&B influences make him stand out in the gospel world. His debut album “Tunnel Vision” earned him praise for its soulful, worshipful sound. Moore’s ability to combine gospel with soul and R&B is pushing the genre in exciting new directions.
What to Watch For:
- New albums that explore both worship and personal reflection.
- More collaborations with mainstream R&B artists.
Zacardi Cortez
Zacardi Cortez’s powerful voice has been compared to legends like Donnie McClurkin. His ability to convey deep emotion through song has made him one of the most compelling voices in modern gospel.
What to Watch For:
- Soulful worship albums that resonate with traditional gospel fans.
- Performances that leave a lasting emotional impact on audiences.
Anita Wilson
Anita Wilson brings a jazzy, soulful flair to gospel music. Her hit single “Jesus Will” showcased her ability to bring something new to the genre. Wilson continues to release music that fuses gospel with jazz and soul, creating a sound that is both contemporary and timeless.
What to Watch For:
- New worship albums with a distinctive jazz influence.
- Collaborative projects with other genre-blurring artists.
Jonathan Traylor
Jonathan Traylor’s modern, upbeat approach to gospel music is attracting a new generation of worshippers. His music combines elements of gospel, pop, and hip-hop, making it accessible to younger audiences while still carrying deep spiritual messages.
What to Watch For:
- New music videos and live worship sessions that are youth-centered.
- Continued innovation in gospel production and sound.
Torrence Greene
Torrence Greene’s smooth, powerful voice and worship-leading skills have made him a standout in the gospel music world. His ability to mix traditional gospel with modern worship makes his sound both classic and contemporary.
What to Watch For:
- Soulful worship albums that appeal to diverse audiences.
- Inspirational live performances that connect deeply with listeners.
Casey J
Casey J burst onto the gospel scene with her hit single “Fill Me Up.” Her music combines elements of worship and CCM (Contemporary Christian Music), creating a refreshing sound that appeals to a wide audience. Casey J’s worship-leading style is intimate, powerful, and deeply spiritual.
What to Watch For:
- New worship music that blends different gospel and contemporary influences.
- Large-scale worship events and intimate acoustic sessions.
Israel Houghton
Israel Houghton has been a leading voice in the gospel for years, known for his ability to bring different cultures and styles into worship. His multicultural approach to gospel music continues
to inspire and uplift people from all walks of life.
What to Watch For:
- New worship albums that bridge cultural and musical gaps.
- International worship tours that celebrate diversity in the church.
Naomi Raine
Naomi Raine’s work with Maverick City Music has quickly made her a favorite in the gospel community. Her smooth vocals and anointing for worship have made her a rising star. Raine’s ability to lead worship with vulnerability and sincerity is refreshing.
What to Watch For:
- Solo projects that expand her reach in the gospel music industry.
- New collaborations with both gospel and mainstream artists.
Javen
Javen has a rich voice and a heartfelt worship style that has endeared him to fans around the world. His music bridges the gap between gospel and CCM, allowing him to reach audiences from different backgrounds. Javen continues to release music that is both uplifting and deeply spiritual.
What to Watch For:
- New projects that focus on worship and spiritual renewal.
- Large worship events and ministry tours.
Micah Stampley
Micah Stampley’s ability to lead worship with passion and power has made him a leading figure in gospel music. His voice, range, and anointed worship make him a sought-after performer and worship leader.
What to Watch For:
- New worship music that encourages deep personal reflection and corporate worship.
- Continued leadership in global worship events and ministry.
Conclusion
These 25 African-American gospel singers are pushing the boundaries of worship music in 2024. Each artist brings their unique style, perspective, and message to the genre, ensuring that gospel music remains a vibrant and powerful form of worship.
Whether through traditional gospel roots or innovative cross-genre collaborations, these artists are redefining what it means to worship through music in this new era.
