Gospel Music Sees 18.5 Percent Streaming Growth as Jonathan McReynolds and Dunsin Oyekan Release New Albums

Christian and gospel music saw an 18.5 percent increase in on-demand audio streams in the United States in 2025, significantly outpacing other major music genres. The growth is largely attributed to a younger, streaming-forward demographic, with millennials and female listeners playing a key role.

Jonathan McReynolds released the live album "Closer," recorded in Chicago. The project features collaborations with Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jamal Roberts, and Ghana's Team Eternity. McReynolds has spoken about the album's themes of identity and the tension between hustle culture and faith.

Dunsin Oyekan released the 10-track live album "The Eagle" on April 2, 2026. The release featured a significant prophetic reveal stream that drew wide attention online.

Ron Carter and Ricky Dillard collaborated on a project reimagining classic hymns through jazz bass lines and choir arrangements, released via Blue Note Records and Motown Gospel. CeCe Winans published the deluxe edition of "More Than This" and launched a major 2026 arena tour.

At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 1, 2026, Darrel Walls and PJ Morton won Best Gospel Album for "Heart of Mine." CeCe Winans featuring Shirley Caesar won Best Gospel Performance/Song for "Come Jesus Come." Brandon Lake with Jelly Roll won Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for "Hard Fought Hallelujah."

Tasha Cobbs Leonard won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album for her project "TASHA."

The touring sector is also expanding. Promoters like Awakening Events and WME CMG have significantly increased their show counts for 2026. Forrest Frank's "The Jesus Generation Tour" has sold over 500,000 tickets.