Christian Music Surges into Mainstream Pop Charts

Christian music is currently experiencing a historic surge in mainstream popularity, defying industry trends that show a general decline in streams for new music. Data from Luminate indicates that the genre is being driven by a younger demographic, specifically Millennials and Gen Z listeners who are highly active on streaming platforms.

Artists like Forrest Frank and Brandon Lake are leading this charge, achieving chart positions previously reserved for secular pop hits. The genre's success is attributed to a shift toward more authentic storytelling and a broadening of musical styles, moving away from the restrictive sounds of the past. This evolution is blurring the lines between sacred and secular music, resulting in crossover success and recognition at major awards shows.

Christian music is currently defying industry trends, showing growth while overall streams for new releases have decreased. According to the Luminate 2025 Semiannual Report, the genre is on an upward trajectory despite a general decline in plays for songs released in the last 18 months.

The rise is being driven by specific artists connecting with a younger audience. Jaime Marconette, Vice President of Music Insights and Industry Relations at Luminate, identified Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, and Elevation Worship as key leaders. These artists are tapping into a fanbase that is younger and highly engaged in streaming, composed of 60% women and 30% Millennials.

This connection has translated into tangible success on the charts. For the first time in 11 years, two contemporary Christian songs entered the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100. The songs in question are "Your Way's Better" by Frank and "Hard Fought Hallelujah" by Lake featuring Jelly Roll. This achievement places them in direct competition with mainstream pop artists.

The current wave of success is powered by a diverse group of musicians bringing their unique styles to the genre. Forrest Frank is a pop Christian singer, songwriter, and producer from Texas who gained fame as part of the duo Surfaces before launching a successful solo career mixing pop, hip-hop, and worship.

Brandon Lake is an American Christian singer, songwriter, and guitarist deeply involved in worship music, serving at Seacoast Church in South Carolina. He is currently nominated for three Grammys in 2026.

The expansion of the genre is also highlighted by the inclusion of secular artists in Christian categories. Rapper Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord), who combines hip-hop, country, and rock, collaborated with Lake on "Hard Fought Hallelujah." Consequently, artists traditionally considered secular, such as Jelly Roll, Killer Mike, and T.I., are receiving Grammy nominations in Christian categories, signaling that the boundaries between genres are becoming increasingly thin.

Industry executives argue that the definition of Christian music has shifted. Holly Zabka, President of Provident Entertainment (a subsidiary of Sony), explains that the genre is defined by its lyrical component rather than a specific sound. This allows it to encompass rap, hip-hop, rock, and country, attracting a wider audience that already listens to these styles.

Historically, Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) was criticized for being derivative or "safe." However, Zabka notes that the quality has improved significantly. The industry now aims to produce the "best art" rather than serving as a "cheap alternative" to secular hits.

Artists confirm that the stylistic lines have blurred. Chris Brown of Elevation Worship notes that there are fewer rigid stylistic boundaries than there were 10 or 20 years ago. Lauren Daigle, a two-time Grammy winner, observes that there is much more artistic expression and diversity in the genre today compared to the past.

Holly Zabka describes the current moment as a "perfect storm" for Christian music. Two main factors are driving this: the democratization of music discovery through streaming/social media and a "resurgence of faith" among young people. While the number of Americans identifying as Christian has generally declined, a 2025 Pew Research Center survey suggests this decline is slowing.

Lyrics have also evolved to meet the moment. Zabka explains that modern Christian music is more authentic, real, and honest about life's difficulties—such as breakups and hardship—offering a unique sense of hope that resonates with listeners.

Artists believe the music offers something deeper than standard entertainment. Lauren Daigle suggests that because the music points to something greater than the artist's ego, it levels the playing field and provides a shared sense of purpose. Brandon Lake believes the music is designed to facilitate a spiritual connection, stating, "These songs are not just entertainment; they prepare the ground for an encounter."