All seven of the 2026 Breakout Single of the Year honorees are first-time nominees. Their stylistic diversity serves as an accurate gauge for where Christian music is headed. There’s no longer a singular pop lane. Instead, the genre is alive with a varied palette of sonic colors. From rock and worship to country and soul, all manner of sounds are represented across this year’s class of newcomers willing to pour their heart out in a melody. These fresh faces lead a group of rising talent that has caught the attention of listeners with singles that speak to the things we care about, the truths we wrestle with and the faith we try so hard to sustain. Last year, fans named Leanna Crawford’s “Still Waters (Psalm 23)” 2025’s Breakout Single champion. Now, once again, K-LOVE listeners have the opportunity to crown a new winner.
Hosted by Lauren Daigle and Sadie Robertson Huff, the 13th annual K-LOVE Fan Awards will air exclusively on TBN Friday, May 29, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. EST.
Cast your vote for Breakout Single of the Year now.
“All Joy,” Natalie Layne
Natalie Layne’s “All Joy” serves as a fitting introduction to the Colorado Springs native. The shimmering selection gave her full-length label debut its name and titled her first headlining tour. The keys-led original leans into the Scripture found in James 1:2 where the author encourages readers to count every trial as a blessing. With a master’s degree in commercial piano, the highly trained musician recently unveiled a fresh version of “All Joy” with two-time K-LOVE Fan Award winner Francesca Battistelli, a familiar voice Layne often channels with her own mix of soulful pop.
"Get Behind Me," Emerson Day
Armed with a degree in Homeland Security, Maryland native Emerson Day originally thought she would build a career in federal law enforcement. After feeling a God-directed call toward Christian music, however, she switched her focus and turned her attention to a full-time career as a singer-songwriter. Her debut single, “Get Behind Me,” showcases her smoky vocal and fearless country-rock aesthetic. In addition to a Breakout Single nod, the emerging hit earned Day entries for Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year, making the newcomer one of the most nominated females ahead of the year’s K-LOVE Fan Awards.
“I Need You,” Jet Trouble
The indie-pop resonance of Jet Trouble’s radio debut, “I Need You,” might have initially caught the ear of listeners, but it was the story behind the 2026 Breakout Single contender that captured their full attention. Trouble, whose given name is James Troublefield, penned the transparent track after his dad was diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative disease that eventually took him to heaven. Reeling from the unexpected loss, at times, the only prayer the Dallas-based artist could muster was, “God, I need you.” Fans were swiftly drawn to the urgent vulnerability heard in Trouble’s emotional delivery, securing him a spot in this coveted category reserved for new artists.
“Somebody's Praying,” Bay Turner
It was only a few months ago that Bay Turner was hearing his song on K-LOVE for the first time. Now, he’s earned a spot on the Breakout Single ballot. Early fans of his radio debut, “Somebody’s Praying,” won’t be surprised to learn the Texas native is a classically trained opera singer, as evidenced by his remarkable vocal range expertly captured across the theatrical track. Turner first introduced his unparalleled voice to a national audience by competing on “America’s Got Talent” and BET’s “Sunday Best.” His lead single showcases his incredible falsetto, first and foremost, as he offers a testament to the power of prayer.
“Stay," Zahriya Zachary
Zahriya Zachary might not yet be a household name, but you’re likely already familiar with her first single, “Stay.” The quiet, reflective original offers an intimate look into the depths of the recently engaged singer’s relationship with Jesus. The peaceful “Stay” appears on the emerging artist’s 13-track solo debut, “Rediscovery.” Zachary will help lead the Sunday Morning Worship Service at the K-LOVE Fan Awards Weekend, alongside Josh Baldwin and Pat Barrett, as she celebrates her first ever K-LOVE Fan Awards nomination.
“Where Would I Be," Peter Burton
With a dusty country sound in the vein of Mumford & Sons and The Avett Brothers, new artist Peter Burton took “Where Would I Be” — his debut single — straight to the top of the charts. The former Thrive Worship member penned the driving anthem as a reminder of the transformative life available to us through a relationship with Jesus. While the California-based newcomer spent a season writing and touring with CCM veteran Lincoln Brewster, Burton’s solo music is broadly inspired by his personal struggles with mental health.
“Why Should I Worry," Carly Ann Taylor
Carly Ann Taylor’s big voice and insightful lyrics belie her age on her debut hit, “Why Should I Worry.” The soulful single draws inspiration from Matthew 6, written during a pivotal period in Taylor’s life when she was anxious about her future. Growing up in a dysfunctional home in Hawaii, Taylor is well aquatinted with the subjects she sings about — fear and uncertainty. In fact, the only thing more authentic than her vocal delivery is the story of how the Converse-loving 20-something found the Lord as a teen after moving to San Diego, where she was adopted by her older brother and sister-in-law.
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Select your favorite artists, songs, films, television series, books, podcasts and more across 11 fan-voted categories.
