Christian Music Guys

We’ve got a fresh voice and a powerful story joining us today.Today we’re joined by the one and only Jordan McCullough, from American Idol!Jordan’s journey isn’t just about hitting the right notes — it’s about obedience, calling, and trusting God with the platform He provides. We’re going to talk about how he’s stayed grounded in his faith through national attention, and what’s next for him in Christian music. He also just made the top 30!Let’s welcome Jordan McCullough to the show

We’re welcoming back a familiar face— Amanda Janson, here for her third time with us, and today is a big one because her full-length debut album, Sinner to Saint, is officially out today! This project is an honest, powerful journey from brokenness to freedom, blending  moments like the bold opener “Wild Ones” with deeply personal worship songs such as “Where the Warfare Ends.” Welcome Amanda Janson!amandajansonmusic.com@amandajansonmusicchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today we’ve got a special guest joining the Christian Music Guys. You know him from American Idol Season 14, where he captured hearts as the runner-up —Clark Beckham is in the house.Since his Idol run, Clark’s continued to build a loyal fanbase, blending gospel roots, soul, and pop into music that’s both powerful and authentic. And now, he’s stepped fully into the Christian music space—signing with NCS Records earlier  and releasing his label debut worship single with the NCS Collective, titled “Mystery.”We’re excited to talk about his journey, his faith, and what God’s doing next—so let’s jump in with Clark Beckham.clarkbeckham.com@clarkbeckhamchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today we’ve got a special guest, he’s the man who brought Bart Millard to the big screen in the hit film I Can Only Imagine—and now he’s back, starring in I Can Only Imagine 2, out today in theaters.  And of course, le miz (Les miserables)We’re talking about the incredibly talented John Michael Finley.After the breakout success of the original film, this new chapter reunites audiences with MercyMe frontman Bart Millard in a powerful story about faith, fatherhood, and finding grace in the hardest seasons of life. It’s deeper, it’s personal, and it’s a reminder that God’s not finished with our story yet.Let’s welcome to the show—John Michael Finley.@john_michael_finleyicanonlyimagine.com@christianmusicguyschristianmusicguys.com

Today we’re spotlighting a band you need on your radar. Fronted by lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist Jaren LaGore, alongside her sister Jade LaGore on electric violin and vocals, The Band JAREN is bringing a bold, fresh sound to Christian music—rooted in rock, driven by faith, and powered by some seriously next-level vocals.From Carnegie Hall performances to multiple music awards, these sisters have already made waves—and since 2022, they’ve been touring nationwide, headlining festivals, and packing out Christmas tours with thousands every year. Named Artist to Watch by CCM Magazine and Today’s Christian Entertainment, and landing major playlist covers on Spotify and Pandora, they’re quickly becoming one of the defining voices of modern Christian music.Their brand-new single ‘Poetic’ is out now, and it’s a beautiful, honest anthem for a generation chasing meaning and truth. Let’s dive in—this is The Band JAREN.@thebandjarenthebandjaren.com@christianmusicguyschristianmusicguys.com

Today on Christian Music Guys, We’re sitting down with Reach Records artist, pastor, author, and Christian hip-hop pioneer Trip Lee, who’s stepping into a brand-new creative and spiritual season. After years of shaping the Christian hip-hop landscape, Trip is launching BRAG Worship — along with his first-ever worship EP, For Your Glory, arriving February 13. With a career that’s earned Dove and Stellar Awards, chart-topping albums, and recognition from major outlets like BET, Vibe, and Apple Music 1, Trip Lee has never been afraid to evolve. After reigniting his musical momentum with The Epilogue, he’s now inviting the Church into something deeper. Let’s welcome the one and only Trip Lee to Christian Music Guys.builttobrag.com

Our guest is one of the most respected A&R minds in Christian music history. With more than 35 years in the industry, he’s helped shape the sound of CCM through legendary stops at Word, Sparrow, Star Song, and as president of Benson Records — before co-founding Centricity Music in 2005.He’s the guy behind the scenes who discovered and signed artists like Point of Grace, Scott Krippayne, Cindy Morgan, Matt Redman, Nichole Nordeman, Warren Barfield, Jason Gray, and the Passion worship recordings. Oh — and along the way, he co-wrote ‘Love In Any Language,’ one of the most iconic Christian songs ever recorded.A true shepherd of artists and songs — we’re honored to welcome VP of A&R and co-owner of Centricity Music, John Mays!

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re welcoming pop singer-songwriter Ivey Asher. Raised between Austin, Nashville, and Los Angeles, Ivey started writing music at just ten years old as a way to express her thoughts, emotions, and faith. Her songs blend honest storytelling with cinematic pop melodies that connect deeply with listeners.She’s kicking off a new chapter with her uplifting single “FREE!”, an anthem about choosing hope, freedom, and a fresh start — with more new music on the way. Let’s welcome Ivey Asher!@iveyasherchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re welcoming back a familiar voice and trusted industry leader — 3-time guest Kevin McNeese, founder of NewReleaseToday. Kevin has his finger on the pulse of everything happening in Christian music, and he’s joining us to break down all that went down in 2025. From the biggest moments and surprises in the industry to the impact of AI, The We Love Awards and so much more!newreleasetoday.com@newreleasetodaychristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

On today's show, we chat with one of the biggest voices in Christian music, Jamie MacDonald’s story is one of raw redemption. Kicked out of her Michigan home at just 15 for singing, Jamie walked through years of instability and addiction before choosing recovery at 21—a decision that changed everything. Music became her lifeline, a place to process pain, rediscover hope, and find purpose. Her breakout single “Desperate,” a heartfelt cry of grief and hope, spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard and Mediabase Christian AC charts and was later reimagined with GRAMMY® winner Lauren Daigle. Now signed to Capitol CMG and preparing to release her self-titled debut album on January 23, 2026, Jamie’s journey comes full circle—proof that God can turn even the deepest pain into purpose.@jamiemacdonaldmusicchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re switching things up and welcoming comedian Shama to the show! African-born, American-raised, homeschool graduate, middle child, and former pastor’s kid, Shama has a gift for making people laugh while keeping it real. He first took the internet by storm in 2018 with his viral “VeggieTales Remix,” and he hasn’t slowed down since.With over 500 million combined views on his comedy sketches and music videos, Shama has become known for his top-notch production, hilarious characters, and sharp observational humor. Featured in outlets like Hope Nation, Relevant Magazine, and Rapzilla, Shama shares his journey, creativity, and faith-filled perspective on this episode. Get ready to laugh, relate, and enjoy a fun, refreshing conversation you won’t want to miss. 😂shamarema.com@shama4realzchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re chatting with one of the brightest new voices in Christian music — Johnny B! You might already know him from social media, where his powerful voice and genuine faith have captured hearts across the internet. Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight with his debut single, a fresh reimagining of the Darlene Zschech classic ‘I Give You My Heart’ .The song — distributed by Integrity Music — releases January 2nd, bringing a bold new sound and spirit to a worship anthem we all know and love.We’re diving into Johnny’s journey, the story behind the song, and what’s next for this up-and-coming artist making big waves in Christian music. Let’s welcome Johnny B!

🎙️✨ It’s our Annual Year-End Show! ✨🎙️Christian Music Guys is wrapping up the year with you at the center of it all 🙌We’re counting down the listeners’ & viewers’ favorite interviews, moments, and guests from the past year — plus sharing behind-the-scenes stories, highlights, and surprises you won’t want to miss.Thank you for being part of the CMG family ❤️Tap in, celebrate the year with us, and get ready for what’s next! christianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on The Christian Music Guys, we’re excited to welcome a voice many of you will recognize — Michael Sarver. You first met Michael as a Top 10 finalist on American Idol (2009), where he made waves in the country music world. But even as his career grew, God was stirring something deeper — a calling that couldn’t be ignored.That calling led Michael to step away from the country spotlight and spend years pouring into worship ministry in Texas. And now, he’s stepping boldly into a brand-new chapter. Michael has officially signed with WieRok Entertainment and just released his debut Christian single, “Warrior.”An electrifying rock anthem — a declaration of identity forged through struggle and refined by faith.We’re thrilled to have him on the show today to talk about the journey, the music, and the message behind it all.@michaelsarvermusicmichaelsarvermusic.com@christianmusicguyschristianmusicguys.com

Today on the Christian Music Guys, we’re excited to welcome Brent Dawes!Brent has spent over two decades as the Creative Lead at Sunrise Animation Studios, bringing imagination, heart, and joy to screens around the world. He’s the mastermind behind the beloved Jungle Beat series and the director of Jungle Beat: The Movie — a film that Netflix picked up in 2021 and saw skyrocket into the global Top 10 across all genres in its first three weeks.And now, Brent is stepping into one of the most anticipated animated projects of the decade.He is the writer and co-director of the brand-new Angel Studios animated feature, David, hitting theaters December 19th, 2025 — along with the Young David shorts that have already captured the hearts of families everywhere.We’re talking creativity, calling, and the incredible journey of bringing one of Scripture’s most iconic heroes to life on the big screen.angel.com/david@thedavidmovieofficialchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today we’re joined by Zahriya Zachary—the rising worship leader and newest solo voice from Bethel Music—here to celebrate her debut full-length album, REDISCOVERY.Born and raised in Texas, Zahriya first fell in love with music at six and later stepped into her calling as a worship leader in college. Her new 13-track album captures her honest journey with God over the past three years, blending a pop-forward sound with vulnerable, hope-filled worship.Her current single “Stay” is a beautiful reminder of God’s nearness, giving listeners a glimpse into the heart and message of the albumZahriyaZachary.com@Zahriya.Zachary

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re honored to welcome a true legend in Christian thought and apologetics — Lee Strobel!Lee is a New York Times bestselling author and the man behind The Case for Christ, the book that’s helped millions discover the truth and evidence for Jesus. A former award-winning legal editor for The Chicago Tribune and once a skeptic himself, Lee set out to disprove Christianity — and instead found faith in Christ.He’s back with a powerful new edition of The Case for Christmas — a thought-provoking look at the real evidence behind the birth of Jesus, just in time for the season.@lee_strobelchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re joined by Laura Williams!You may remember her unforgettable four-chair turn on Season 24 of The Voice, where she instantly captured hearts nationwide. Since then, Laura has become a rising force in Christian music, sharing songs that cut straight to the soul.Her debut single “Who Jesus Is” introduced her powerful testimony, followed by “Hurts Right Now,” a raw and honest prayer that deeply connected with listeners. Now she’s back with her impactful new single “Cheap Church Clothes,” continuing her mission to reveal the real, authentic heart of Jesus to her generation.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of Christian music’s most genuine new voices!laurawilliamsofficial.com@thelaurawilliamsofficialchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re joined once again by one of the most beloved and legendary voices in Christian music — Steven Curtis Chapman! 🙌He’s back for the third time on the show, and this season, he’s celebrating something truly special — the 30th anniversary of his classic holiday album the  Music of Christmas! 🎄✨Steven’s taking those timeless songs back on the road for a Christmas tour, bringing joy, hope, and the true meaning of the season to audiences everywhere. And if that’s not enough Christmas cheer — he’s just released a brand-new version of his holiday favorite ‘Christmas Is All in the Heart’ featuring the incredible CeCe Winans! 🎶Let’s welcome back our friend — Steven Curtis Chapman! 🎁🎶stevencurtischapman.com@stevencurtischapmanchristianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys

Today on Christian Music Guys, we’re thrilled to welcome someone who’s helping shape the future of Christian and Gospel music from the inside out — Lauren Stellato.Lauren serves as the Programming Lead for Christian & Gospel at Amazon Music, where she oversees the global strategy for the genre and has been behind some incredible projects — from Amazon Music’s Easter Campaign featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Tomlin, and TAYA, to innovative playlists like Worship Now Radio and Honey, blending Gospel and R&B in fresh new ways.She brings a powerful, behind-the-scenes perspective on where Christian music is headed — and how it’s connecting with listeners in deeper, more authentic ways. Let’s welcome Lauren Stellato to the show!”christianmusicguys.com@christianmusicguys