Another year of great Christian music has come and gone. Chances are good there wasn’t a playlist that didn’t include Brandon Lake, Forrest Frank and Phil Wickham, who served up the year’s most talked-about tracks; but they weren’t the only ones who cranked out hits across 2025. In fact, the past 12 months have, arguably, introduced more new voices than in recent memory with artists like Megan Woods, Jamie MacDonald and Leanna Crawford notching significant No. 1 songs and notable awards show nominations. With seasoned favorites and newcomers alike earning slots on our list, the time has come for us to run it back and take a look at some of the singles K-LOVE listeners sang at the top of their lungs in the car, at concerts across the country and even at their local church. Here are 25 songs that defined 2025.
“Hard Fought Hallelujah,” Brandon Lake (feat. Jelly Roll)
Without a doubt, Brandon Lake’s “Hard Fought Hallelujah” reigned supreme in 2025. His smash collaboration with Jelly Roll was named Song of the Year at both this year’s K-LOVE Fan Awards and GMA Dove Awards. Additionally, the chart-topping juggernaut garnered the pair a CMA Award nod, as well as a 2026 GRAMMY® nomination. A massive crossover success story, “Hard Fought Hallelujah” made major inroads at country radio, opening doors for Lake and Jelly Roll to perform together at CMA Fest, Stagecoach, the Grand Ole Opry and on “American Idol.” Earlier in the year, the unlikely duo visited the K-LOVE Studios to discuss their friendship, their faith and their respective connection to the single. Lake and Jelly Roll’s version of “Hard Fought Hallelujah” appears on Lake’s latest full-length LP, “King Of Hearts.”
“Your Way’s Better,” Forrest Frank
Forrest Frank ended the year at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart with “Your Way’s Better,” his viral hit that inspired a TikTok dance that took the nation by storm. Across 2025, the Texas native placed more singles on the Hot Christian Songs chart than any other artist, with 39 entries total; 11 of which reached the Top 10. The Gold-certified bop become one of only a few Christian songs to enter the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 in recent years — alongside respective hits from Lake and Wickham — and emerged as one of Google’s top “hum to search” tracks of 2025. In addition, 2024’s “Child of God” secured the No. 1 spot on the Top Christian Albums chart, breaking a record for the most weeks at No. 1. Meanwhile, this year’s sequel, “Child of God II,” finished at No. 2. While Frank sold out arenas throughout 2025, he’s already plotting a 2026 summer run with direct support from pop sensation Tori Kelly and special guests Cory Asbury and The Figs.
“What An Awesome God,” Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham made chart history after “What An Awesome God” spent 20 consecutive weeks atop the Mediabase Christian Impressions chart. Moreover, his remake of the beloved Rich Mullins classic tied Lauren Daigle’s “You Say” for the most overall weeks at No. 1 on that same tally. The single even garnered an entry on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, a rarity for a Christian song. The anthem became a highlight of his live set on this year’s third annual “Summer Worship Nights” trek with Brandon Lake. “What An Awesome God” appears on Wickham’s latest full-length studio collection, “Song Of The Saints.” In support of the project, the SoCal native hosted a sold-out album release concert at the K-LOVE Center in Franklin, Tennessee, marking the first ticketed event held at the new state-of-the-art venue. The hitmaker is set to headline arenas in 2026 with support from Tauren Wells and Jamie MacDonald.
“No Fear,” Jon Reddick
“No Fear” earned Jon Reddick the inaugural No. 1 of his career. A departure from his traditional worship faire, “No Fear” showcased a Gospel-tinged, Americana-infused side to the seasoned worship leader. The single titled his sophomore set, which released in May. “The reason we do this is for God to be glorified, for people to find the hope that is in Jesus, and many other reasons that point to the Father,” Reddick shared after being presented with his first No. 1 plaque at his label headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee. “It’s humbling to look up and realize that God decided to use this song as a part of so many journeys. To God be the glory!” Following a fall tour with CAIN, the rising artist will hit the road with Danny Gokey and We Are Messengers for “Hope Nights” in select cities next spring.
“Oh Death,” MercyMe (feat. Walker Hayes)
Lead single “Oh Death (feat. Walker Hayes)” hit No. 1 in advance of the release of “Wonder & Awe,” MercyMe’s 12th studio project. Hayes — a co-writer on the selection known for hits like “Fancy Like” — is featured on the recording. He sent some initial ideas for the song to frontman Bart Millard after MercyMe’s album was basically finished. In the wake of losing his beloved father-in-law, however, Millard connected with the lyrics so deeply, he decided to go back into the studio to complete and cut the track. Millard and Hayes visited the K-LOVE Studios earlier this year to discuss their respective faith journeys and the inspiration behind their hit song that isn’t as morbid as the title might suggest. MercyMe will tour in support of their newest LP in 2026. Additionally, the award-winning collective will celebrate the premiere of “I Can Only Imagine 2” — the sequel to their 2018 blockbuster — on February 20, 2026.
“Desperate,” Jamie MacDonald
Upon release, Jamie MacDonald’s debut single, “Desperate,” made a swift play for No. 1, earning the newcomer her first chart-topper, as well as multiple K-LOVE Fan Award and GMA Dove Award nominations. The rising star spent the year touring with Benjamin William Hastings and Chris Tomlin and collaborating with TobyMac, Passion and Lauren Daigle. She capped 2025 with a second consecutive No. 1, “Left It In The River,” as she readies her self-titled debut, set to drop Jan. 23, 2026. Next year will also find her touring with Phil Wickham and Tauren Wells, as well as launching her first run of headlining shows.
“Goodbye Yesterday,” Elevation RHYTHM (feat. Gracie Binion)
The frenetic energy of Elevation Rhythm’s “Goodbye Yesterday,” featuring alt-pop newcomer Gracie Binion, was hard to deny as it played on repeat across 2025. In addition to earning the youthful collective notable nominations and performances at the K-LOVE Fan Awards and the GMA Dove Awards, “Goodbye Yesterday” became the catalyst behind the group’s opening slot on Forrest Frank’s sold-out arena tour. Additionally, Elevation Rhythm took their spirited songs to cities nationwide alongside sister collective Elevation Worship on the popular “Elevation Nights” outing. Moreover, they also embarked on their first headlining trek with additional headlining dates planned for 2026. “Goodbye Yesterday (feat. Gracie Binion)” can be found on the outfit’s latest effort, “Victory Lap.”
“Get Behind Me,” Emerson Day
New artist Emerson Day introduced her fiery grit and smoky vocal via “Get Behind Me,” her hard-hitting debut single. The full-throttle rock song ignited at radio, giving the newcomer a breakout hit to share with audiences across the country as she toured with labelmate Micah Tyler. She also enlisted Zach Williams for a new, collaborative version of the original song. A decorated lacrosse player, Day originally planned to use her degree in homeland security, but after leading worship at church, the Maryland native felt called to a different mission — one that would allow her to use her musical gifts professionally. Day was recently announced as part of the lineup for 2026’s annual Winter Jam jaunt, where she’ll share the stage with Chris Tomlin, Matthew West and Katy Nichole, among others.
“The Truth,” Megan Woods
Megan Woods gave Christian music fans an anthem of identity with her breakout hit, “The Truth.” The song, which Woods wrote with Matthew West and Jeff Pardo, skyrocketed to No. 1, earning the Massachusetts native a slew of award nominations and high-profile performances, including appearances on the Grand Ole Opry and “FOX & Friends.” “The Truth” also became the title track of her six-song debut EP that released in October. Furthermore, the powerful original inspired a children’s book and a perfume fragrance. The powerhouse vocalist spent the year on tour with Big Daddy Weave and finished 2025 on top of Billboard’s Top New Christian Artists chart. “This year has shown me the faithfulness of God in ways I’ll never forget,” she says. “I’m so thankful I even get to do this.” Next up, Woods will set sail on the K-LOVE Cruise in 2026.
“Breakdown,” Andrew Ripp
Andrew Ripp’s dusty, foot-stomping track, “Breakdown,” reminded listeners that sometimes the end of our rope is exactly where God does His best work. “I’ve learned over time that our breakdowns are actually breakthroughs if we choose to see them that way. Our midnights are actually brand-new mornings even though the light hasn’t reached the horizon yet. For me, it was a drinking problem that brought me to rock bottom… This became the firm foundation the good Lord built a whole new life upon,” Ripp shares of the inspiration behind the personal selection. “This song means a whole lot to me, and I hope you dig it as much as I enjoyed making it.” “Breakdown” finds its home on Ripp’s long-awaited new album, “The Mercy Room,” which he unveiled in September.
“a lil church (nobody’s too lost),” TobyMac
Perennial hitmaker TobyMac notched another No. 1 single with “a lil church (nobody’s too lost)” from his acclaimed album, “Heaven On My Mind.” “The line I love in that song is, ‘If nobody’s too lost to get found, I could use a lil Church right now.’ I mean, I believe that,” Toby told K-LOVE DJ Lauree during a visit to the K-LOVE Studios earlier this year. “That’s the line of the record, to me. Is there more of a Christ message than that? That nobody’s too lost? What you’ve done, who you’ve hurt, how bad you’ve been hurt…nobody’s too lost to be found by the love of Jesus.” Across 2025, the veteran artist headlined arenas nationwide, sharing the stage with CAIN, MercyMe and Matthew West, among others. He’ll launch another installment of “Hits Deep” in 2026 alongside Crowder and Jeremy Camp.
“Mighty Name Of Jesus,” Hope Darst (feat. Josh Baldwin)
One of the biggest surprise hits of 2025 arrived in the form of Hope Darst’s “Mighty Name Of Jesus.” The original track, which Darst initially led at her church, The Belonging Co., helped title her first live worship record, “The Mighty Name,” and became a song of generational blessing. “My prayer is that ‘Mighty Name of Jesus’ reminds you to call on Him in every season, joy or struggle. There is no name more powerful,” Darst affirms. Worship leader Josh Baldwin joined Darst for a collaborative version that elevated the worshipful offering to the next level. The “Peace Be Still” singer capped the year by unveiling her debut Christmas single, “Be Born In Me.” Although Francesca Battistelli originally recorded the Nichole Nordeman-penned ballad, Darst sang the vocal on the original demo.
“Can’t Steal My Joy,” Josiah Queen (feat. Brandon Lake)
When Josiah Queen enlisted in-demand collaborator Brandon Lake for “Can’t Steal My Joy,” it was destined for success. Sure enough, the undeniable joy bomb became Queen’s first No. 1. The folky pop duet appears on Queen’s sophomore LP, “Mt. Zion.” In addition to a chart-topping hit, the Florida native had a phenomenal year filled with a rigorous tour itinerary; collaborations with Forrest Frank, Benjamin William Hastings and Avery Anna; numerous awards show moments and an opening slot on Lake and Phil Wickham’s “Summer Worship Nights” tour. He recently wrapped a fall run of concerts on the “Campus Nights” tour, where he shared the bill with rapper Hulvey and newcomer Claire Leslie. He’s slated to helm a host of “Mt. Zion” dates in Spring 2026.
“Turn,” Ben Fuller
The aftermath of a painful breakup inadvertently inspired Ben Fuller’s new song, “Turn.” Its head-turning opening line made this single a surefire hit from the very first note as Fuller confessed, “I wanted to turn to the bottle. I even drove past the bar. Turns out I’m not as strong as I thought, but that’s when I learned that You are.” “Turn” anchors Fuller’s 2025 album, “Walk Through Fire,” which he supported with headlining dates this fall. The former addict surprised fans in October when he welcomed country superstar Carrie Underwood to the stage at the GMA Dove Awards for a rendition of the pair’s “If It Was Up To Me,” which they also recorded for “Walk Through Fire” and performed at the Grand Ole Opry. The Vermont native is already plotting his next live outing with “The Black Sheep Tour,” slated to run from March through May of 2026.
“Honest,” Leanna Crawford
2025 proved to be a banner year for Leanna Crawford. On the strength of her first No. 1, “Still Waters (Psalm 23),” the rising songstress received the trophy for Breakout Single of the Year at the K-LOVE Fan Awards. She was also named New Artist of the Year at the GMA Dove Awards. Furthermore, the Washington state native performed at Red Rocks, while on tour with Zach Williams, and even embarked on her own headlining jaunt. Her follow-up to the breakout hit, “Honest,” became an instant fan favorite thanks to its raw vulnerability. “It’s so easy to fall into the trap of trying to be perfect, especially when you feel like you have to show up ‘right’ for God, but that’s not what He asks for,” Crawford offers. “He’s not looking for perfection; He just wants us to be real, raw and honest with Him.”
“In The Name Of Jesus,” JWKLRS Worship
With “In The Name Of Jesus,” JWLKRS Worship went from a family of social media influencers to a full-fledged worship collective. The breakout single earned the emerging group a GRAMMY® nomination and multiple GMA Dove Award and K-LOVE Fan Award nods. Christian music fans first got to know the Schnacky family and friends in 2024 when they released their debut EP, “Here I Am,” which featured collaborations with Chandler Moore — a writer on “In The Name Of Jesus” — Maverick City Music, Ashley Hess and Housefires. JWKLRS Worship toured with Maverick City Music throughout 2025. They also continue to host a popular podcast where they tackle topics relevant to their generation.
“Jesus Loves,” Zach Williams
Zach Williams debuted his latest single, “Jesus Loves,” at the 2025 K-LOVE Fan Awards. It then became the title of his fourth studio effort, which he supported with extensive touring this fall on his multi-artist “Revival Nights” trek that included a stop at Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. “‘Jesus Loves’ is a reminder of the grace and love that Jesus Christ has for each and every one of us, no matter where you are or what you’ve done,” Williams says of the song’s message. “You are loved and accepted just the way you are.” Across 2025, the GRAMMY® winner shared the stage with We The Kingdom, Crowder, Matt Maher, Ben Fuller and Leanna Crawford, among others. He’s slated to fill the opening slot on Third Day’s highly anticipated 30th anniversary tour in 2026.
“I Know A Name,” Elevation Worship (feat. Brandon Lake)
Elevation Worship gifted the Church a fresh anthem this year in the form of “I Know A Name.” “When I recognize my own insufficiency, I make room for the One who is all-sufficient to step in,” says Elevation Worship’s Chris Brown, who shares lead vocals with Brandon Lake on the original. “I don’t have enough wisdom, don’t know how to get over this anxiety, don’t know if I’ve got enough strength to keep fighting, but I know the One who does. His name is Jesus, and He holds all authority in heaven and on earth.” The powerful track was awarded Worship Recorded Song of the Year honors at the GMA Dove Awards in October. It also earned a 2026 GRAMMY® nomination. Furthermore, Lake recorded his own version of the song with the incomparable CeCe Winans for his “King Of Hearts” album.
“When I Fall,” Katy Nichole
Upon release, Katy Nichole’s “When I Fall” previewed her sophomore LP, “Honest Conversations.” The haunting ballad — penned solely by Nichole — immediately connected with listeners thanks to its unvarnished honesty, a hallmark of her latest full-length collection. “‘When I Fall’ was a song I wrote out of complete desperation. I just wept at my piano, and I cried out feeling so mentally, spiritually and physically drained,” Nichole reveals. “The words I sang were what I was praying in that moment. So tired of trying to just be OK, I decided to be honest with myself and with God, and God met me exactly where I was. I felt so much peace bringing all that I am to the feet of Jesus. Whether it be joy or sadness or just my frustration, I knew I could talk to Jesus about anything, and He would love me through it.” Nichole is scheduled to share new music on the 2026 installment of Winter Jam.
“The King Is In The Room,” Phil Wickham
“What An Awesome God” might have eclipsed anything else Phil Wickham put his hands to this year, but before he reworked the beloved Rich Mullins classic, he brought “The King Is In The Room” to life (and to radio). The contagious, upbeat anthem instantly captured the hearts of fans. “‘The King Is In The Room’ was written to set the table for the Church as we gather in worship — not just because it carries joy and energy, but because of the truth it declares,” Wickham explains. “This song awakens our hearts to the reality that we are not just a group of people singing in an empty room, but the King — Jesus, the Holy Spirit — is present with us, ready to set people free as we focus on Him.” Fans can find “The King Is In The Room” on his latest album, “Song Of The Saints,” for which he’ll launch a massive accompanying tour in 2026.
“Whisper And The Wind,” bodie
After competing on “The Voice,” Los Angeles native bodie made his Christian music debut with “Whisper And The Wind,” which offered a compelling argument for the softer, quieter voice of God. “I wanted to write a song that reminded us of who God was. Not just in the big moments, not just in the gusty, windy, miraculous, ground-shaking moments; but in the moments that we sometimes — and I’d say, oftentimes — miss, which is in the stillness, the quietness of the whispers of His Spirit,” bodie shares of the message behind the experimental pop offering. Nominated for Breakout Single of the Year at the K-LOVE Fan Awards, “Whisper And The Wind” evolved into the anchor track for his debut album, 2025’s “No Skips.”
“Let The Church Sing,” Tauren Wells
“Let The Church Sing” was the precursor to a five-track EP Tauren Wells dropped in March. For the first time, the pop singer found himself writing vertical worship songs, undoubtedly inspired by the church he and his wife, Lorna, launched last year in Austin, Texas. Now adding “pastor” to his resume, Wells debuted his first book, “Joy Bomb,” in the spring. This fall, he returned as host of the GMA Dove Awards, held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. In addition to pastoring, he’ll hit the road hard in 2026 as direct support for Phil Wickham’s “Song Of The Saints Tour,” as well as headlining his own “Take It All Back Tour” beginning in March. Additionally, he’s already tapped a whole host of friends to join him at Austin’s ACL Moody Theater for a live worship recording on Feb. 18, 2026.
“No Survivors,” Jeremy Camp
This year, Jeremy Camp returned to his rock roots with “No Survivors.” Much to the delight of fans, the high-octane anthem found the father of three reverting to the earliest days of his career when a little scream-singing wasn’t out of the question. An admission of pride and ego, the fiery “No Survivors” appears on Camp’s acclaimed album, “Deeper Waters,” which he’s rigorously toured over the course of the past two years. 2025 saw the award winner hit the road with Jonathan Traylor, Skillet and We Are Messengers, as well as his wife, Adrienne, with whom he co-headlined a special run of shows. Together with Matthew West, Bart Millard (MercyMe) and Mac Powell, Camp also co-hosted this year’s K-LOVE Fan Awards for the first time.
“A Thousand Times,” We Are Messengers
Continuing their “Where The Joy Is” era, We Are Messengers brought upbeat original “A Thousand Times” to Christian radio. “‘A Thousand Times’ is a declaration of the goodness of God. I’ve seen it in my life, and so have you. He’s been good in every situation, in every circumstance; and we can count on Him, we can take Him at His word,” offers We Are Messengers frontman Darren Mulligan of the central message behind the arena-ready anthem. “We can trust that God is good yesterday, today and tomorrow. So, friends, God has been good, hasn’t He? And He’ll be good a thousand times more.” The collective capped the year with a little yuletide cheer straight from their Irish homeland with their first full-length holiday album, “Rejoice (A Celtic Christmas).”
“Flowers,” Samantha Ebert (feat. Seph Schlueter)
Samantha Ebert made her K-LOVE debut with diaristic single “Flowers” in 2025. The Canadian-born artist enlisted fellow newcomer Seph Schlueter to add his vocals to the song. Ebert’s ongoing battle with Lyme disease inspired the vulnerable track. “I wrote this one from a place of feeling like my hope was almost gone. When I saw the ‘get well soon’ flowers on my nightside table, God reminded me that beautiful things grow in the darkest of places. Flowers don’t grow on the mountaintops, and we don’t grow and depend on Him as much when life is easy,” Ebert offers of the message behind the breakout hit born out of chronic illness. “Beautiful things grow in the valley. Trust, patience, contentment, rest, joy amidst hard circumstances, strength, reliance on the Lord; these are all things we learn a little extra in the hard seasons. I believe God is good and has a good plan, no matter how dark the valleys we’re walking may be.”
