Music

CRYSTAL AIKIN SIGNS NEW DEAL, USHERING IN NEW ERA OF MINISTRY AND MUSIC

Published

1 month ago

February 2, 2026

By iPraiseRadio.com Staff | Powered by @gospelnewsroom on YouTube

Los Angeles, CA – Gospel music powerhouse Crystal Aikin is stepping into a bold new chapter of her ministry and musical journey. The Stellar and BMI Award-winning artist has officially signed with Mixed Bag Entertainment’s music division, marking a significant milestone in a career that has inspired millions since she first captured hearts as the inaugural winner of BET’s Sunday Best nearly two decades ago.

A New Chapter with Mixed Bag Entertainment

On November 13, 2025, Aikin made the exciting announcement that sent ripples of excitement through the gospel music community. “It’s official!” the Tacoma, Washington native declared. “I’m so excited to be joining the Mixed Bag Entertainment roster. With so many amazing artists maintaining the relevance of gospel music, it’s an honor to still be in that number delivering the message that ‘Christ is Lord!’ I believe this deal is going to kick off a new era for my career, by sharing new music and being an example that God redeems time for His people. And for this, I just want to make Him proud…Let’s Go!!!!”

The partnership comes on the heels of a highly publicized Dove Award nomination and the successful fall release of her powerful new single, “Lord I Need Your Help”. Mixed Bag Entertainment, an entertainment company focused on music, television, and film, provides both digital and physical distribution along with marketing and promotion for talented emerging artists and established performers across genres.

Gary Crockett, Co-Founder and COO of Mixed Bag Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “Crystal Aikin is a star all her own, we look forward to shining the light on her talents and gifts. She is a joy to work with and we are honored to have her join our label”.

From Sunday Best to Gospel Royalty: The Crystal Aikin Story

Crystal Aikin’s journey to gospel stardom reads like a testament to divine timing and unwavering faith. Born and raised in Tacoma, Washington, she grew up singing in the Sunshine Band at Altheimer Memorial Church of God in Christ. As a young woman, she sang on the Praise and Worship team while pursuing higher education, eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology from Pacific Lutheran University.

While establishing herself as a respected local singer in the Tacoma-Seattle area, Aikin also built a career in healthcare as an Emergency Room Registered Nurse. It was this unique combination of medical expertise and musical anointing that made her story so compelling when she stepped onto the national stage.

In 2007, a pivotal moment changed everything. A woman who had heard Crystal sing—but didn’t know her personally—tracked her down and encouraged her to audition for a new show. That show was BET’s Sunday Best, the network’s first all-gospel talent competition featuring gospel legends Mary Mary and BeBe Winans as judges.

Crystal had never even heard of the program when she boarded that plane from Tacoma to Los Angeles. But what happened next was nothing short of miraculous. Week after week, her powerful alto voice with its amazing range captivated audiences and judges alike. When the season concluded in 2008, Crystal Aikin became the inaugural winner of Sunday Best, taking home a major recording contract with Zomba Gospel (now Verity Gospel Music Group) and a 2008 Toyota Camry.

A Career Marked by Excellence and Impact

Aikin’s victory on Sunday Best launched a remarkable recording career. Her self-titled debut album, Crystal Aikin, was released on January 13, 2009, through Verity Records and quickly rose to the top of the gospel charts. The album garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, earning her a 2010 Dove Award nomination for New Artist of the Year.

But it was at the 2009 Stellar Awards where Aikin truly made her mark, winning not one but two coveted trophies: New Artist of the Year and Contemporary Female Artist of the Year. These accolades confirmed what audiences already knew—Crystal Aikin was not just a reality show winner; she was a genuine force in gospel music.

Her career highlights read like a who’s who of gospel greatness:

2010 – Featured on Paul S. Morton’s “Celebrates 25 Years” live recording
2011 – Album feature on the TD Jakes Jumping the Broom soundtrack
2011 – Honored to perform before Archbishop Desmond Tutu
2013 – Toured with the national stage play Love Lies featuring Brian McKnight, Angie Stone, and Elise Neal
2015 – Released sophomore album All I Need on RCA Inspiration
2016 – Received Minister’s License from The Potter’s House of Higher Ground Ministries

Most recently, her #1 hit “He Can Handle It” won a 2025 BMI Award, proving that Crystal’s impact on gospel music continues to grow.

“Lord I Need Your Help” – A Personal Cry, A Universal Prayer

Crystal’s latest single, “Lord I Need Your Help,” released on September 3, 2025, continues to climb the Billboard charts as of this release of this article. The song represents one of her most personal and vulnerable offerings to date. In interviews about the song, Aikin has been refreshingly transparent about its origins.

“My back was against the wall,” she shared in a recent conversation. “I was trying to figure things out on my own—and the Lord just said, ‘Hey, I’m here. If you’ll just call on me, I’ll show up.'” The song’s final words, “I cried and called out Jesus, and He showed up,” still move her every time she sings them. “That’s what He does. He answers the cry of His people”.

The single has resonated deeply with listeners across digital platforms, serving as a reminder that no matter how far we’ve drifted or how heavy life feels, help is only a prayer away. It’s more than just a song—it’s a declaration for anyone who has ever needed to call on the Lord as their true source of strength.

More Than a Singer: A Holistic Minister

What sets Crystal Aikin apart in the crowded landscape of gospel music is her holistic approach to ministry. She’s not just a singer—she’s a multifaceted servant who brings her whole self to the work of the Kingdom.

As a registered nurse, she understands physical healing. As a worship pastor, she facilitates spiritual healing. As a writer and speaker, she communicates hope. As an actor, she tells stories that inspire. And through it all, she remains committed to transparency and authenticity.

“With a purpose to serve God’s people through the Word and in song, her holistic approach to ministry leads her to live a committed life of change and transparency,” her official bio states. “Crystal Aikin is and forever will be an example of ‘Every Day’s Best!'”

Her musical influences reflect this multifaceted approach. Counting gospel legends Yolanda Adams, Lisa Paige (of Witness), The Clark Sisters, The Winans, and BeBe and CeCeCe Winans among her inspirations, Aikin has crafted a sound that weaves together classic gospel, jazz, rock, hip-hop, and R&B.

Looking Ahead: A Season of New Music and Fresh Impact

As Crystal Aikin embarks on this new journey with Mixed Bag Entertainment, the gospel music community waits with anticipation for what’s next. The partnership promises to bring fresh music and expanded opportunities for ministry in the months ahead.

True to her nature, Aikin sees this not just as a career move but as a divine appointment. “This deal is going to kick off a new era for my career, by sharing new music and being an example that God redeems time for His people,” she affirmed.

For fans who have followed Crystal’s journey from that first audition in Los Angeles to stages around the world, this new chapter feels like a homecoming—a return to the excitement and possibility that first captured our hearts when she stepped onto the Sunday Best stage.

And for those just discovering Crystal Aikin, welcome to the journey. You’re about to experience a voice that doesn’t just sing—it ministers. A testimony that doesn’t just inspire—it transforms. And a woman who doesn’t just perform—she worships with authenticity, power, and grace.

Connect with Crystal Aikin

Fans can stay connected with Crystal Aikin and follow her journey with Mixed Bag Entertainment through her social media channels:

Instagram: @therealcrystalaikin
Twitter: @crystalaikin
YouTube: crystalaikinVEVO

“Lord I Need Your Help” is available now on all major digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and more.

About Mixed Bag Entertainment:
Mixed Bag Entertainment is an entertainment company focused on music, television, and film. In a long-term partnership with MNRK, Mixed Bag provides both digital and physical distribution, and marketing and promotion for talented emerging artists and established performers across genres of music and film.

About Crystal Aikin:
Crystal Aikin is a Stellar and BMI Award-winning gospel singer, worship pastor, writer, actor, speaker, and registered nurse from Tacoma, Washington. She serves as Director of Music & Fine Arts at The Potter’s House, Fort Worth campus, and continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her powerful voice and authentic ministry.

For more gospel music news, artist interviews, and inspiring content, follow @gospelnewsroom on YouTube and visit iPraiseRadio.com.

#CrystalAikin #MixedBagEntertainment #GospelMusic #LordINeedYourHelp #SundayBest #StellarAwards #iPraiseRadio

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The 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards Are Heading to Charlotte!

Published

2 days ago

March 10, 2026

DEWAYNEBENTONLLC

By Gospel Newsroom powered by iPraiseRadio.com

CHARLOTTE, NC — Get ready, Queen City! The biggest night in Gospel music is officially making its way to North Carolina. City leaders and event organizers have announced that the 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards will be hosted in Charlotte, bringing the nation’s premier celebration of faith, music, and culture to the heart of the South.

The exciting partnership was unveiled during a press conference at the Charlotte Convention Center, featuring Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority CEO Steve Bagwell, Mayor Vi Lyles, City Council Member Malcolm Graham, and the visionary founder of the Stellar Awards, Don Jackson. To set the tone for what’s to come, the announcement event featured live performances by gospel powerhouse Jekalyn Carr and the legendary John P. Kee & The New Life Community Choir.

A Historic Move to the Queen City

Scheduled for August 15, 2026, the Stellar Awards will transform Charlotte into the epicenter of Gospel music. The move highlights the city’s deep-rooted faith community and its rich ties to Black cultural expression.

“The Stellar Gospel Music Awards is one of the most influential celebrations in gospel music,” city leaders noted, emphasizing that hosting the event places Charlotte on a national stage while providing a significant boost to the local visitor economy.

Produced by Central City Productions, the Stellar Awards have been honoring the genre’s brightest stars since 1985. The 2026 ceremony will be nationally televised on networks including BET, Bounce TV, and the Stellar Network, reaching a combined audience of more than 3.6 million viewers, with millions more engaging across digital platforms.

The Visionary Behind the Stellars: Don Jackson

At the helm of this monumental event is Don Jackson, Founder, Chairman, CEO, and Executive Producer of the Stellar Awards. For over four decades, Jackson has been a trailblazer in Black television programming and a fierce advocate for Gospel music. Through Central City Productions, he created the Stellar Awards to ensure that Gospel artists received the mainstream recognition and high-quality production platforms they deserve. His dedication has helped elevate the genre globally, making the Stellars a highly anticipated annual tradition.

Calling All Artists: Submissions Are Open!

For artists, producers, and creatives looking to be part of Gospel music history, the time is now! The official submission period for the 2026 Stellar Awards is currently open.

Submission Details:

Submission Window: March 2, 2026 – March 13, 2026
Eligibility Period: Projects released between March 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026.
How to Submit: Visit the official website at www.stellarawards.com to review the updated rules and regulations and complete the online submission form.
Requirement: All entrants (artists, songwriters, producers, directors, etc.) must be current members of the Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy (SAGMA).

This year’s updated rules also feature exciting additions, including the reinstatement of the Special Event Album of the Year category and the addition of the HBCU Choir of the Year category.

Mark Your Calendars

As August approaches, fans can expect a week filled with Stellar Plus events, masterclasses, red-carpet glamour, and unforgettable performances leading up to the main taping.

Stay tuned to iPraiseRadio.com for all the latest updates, host announcements, and exclusive coverage as the road to the 2026 Stellar Awards in Charlotte begins!

Music

GMA Ushers in March 2026 as the Second Annual Christian Music Month

Published

3 days ago

March 9, 2026

DEWAYNEBENTONLLC

By Gospel Newsroom powered by iPraiseRadio.com

NASHVILLE, TN — The Gospel Music Association (GMA) is officially declaring March 2026 as the second annual Christian Music Month, setting the stage for a 31-day celebration of faith, artistry, and the transformative power of Gospel and Christian music.

Building on the resounding success of last year’s inaugural event, the GMA aims to significantly boost fan engagement and shine a global spotlight on the genre’s diverse and deeply impactful talent. To elevate this year’s festivities, the GMA has announced an exciting partnership with the Recording Academy to present a special edition of the acclaimed “Positive Vibes Only” performance series.

This exclusive collaboration will feature intimate performances and uplifting moments from some of the industry’s most dynamic voices. Among the heavy hitters slated to appear are chart-topping Christian hip-hop artist KB and multi-GRAMMY® Award-winning worship leader Israel Houghton. Fans can expect an eclectic mix of soul-stirring worship and high-energy anthems that perfectly encapsulate the heart and evolution of Christian music today.

The core mission of Christian Music Month is to connect audiences with the life-changing message of the Gospel through song. By teaming up with the Recording Academy, the GMA is ensuring that the uplifting sounds of artists like KB and Houghton reach an even broader, mainstream audience—spreading hope, joy, and positivity when the world needs it most.

Throughout March, fans are encouraged to actively participate by streaming their favorite artists, discovering new music, attending live events, and sharing how Christian music has impacted their daily lives.

Stay tuned to iPraiseRadio.com all month long as we celebrate Christian Music Month with curated playlists, the latest industry updates, and the very best in Gospel music. Let’s make this March a month of unashamed praise and positive vibes only!

Music

Gospel Music Shines at 57th NAACP Image Awards:

Published

1 week ago

March 1, 2026

DEWAYNEBENTONLLC

Kirk Franklin and Tasha Cobbs Leonard Take Top Honors

Gospel Newsroom Staff | Powered by iPraiseRadio.com
February 28, 2026

Gospel music legends Kirk Franklin and Tasha Cobbs Leonard emerged as the big winners in the gospel categories at the 57th NAACP Image Awards, held Saturday night at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California. The prestigious ceremony, hosted by comedian Deon Cole and broadcast live on BET and CBS, celebrated outstanding achievements by Black artists and professionals across entertainment.

Gospel Music Takes Center Stage

In a triumphant moment for gospel music, Kirk Franklin claimed the Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song award for his powerful single “Do it Again” (Fo Yo Soul Recordings/Tribl Records). The victory underscores Franklin’s continued dominance in the genre and his ability to create music that resonates across generations.

Meanwhile, Tasha Cobbs Leonard made history by winning her first-ever NAACP Image Award, taking home the Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album trophy for her critically acclaimed self-titled project “Tasha” (Motown Gospel). Billboard’s Gospel Artist of the Decade received the honor during night two of the virtual pre-show ceremonies.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this honor,” Cobbs Leonard said. “This album represents a season of transformation, faith, and hope. To be recognized by the NAACP Image Awards – alongside so many inspiring artists – fills me with deep gratitude and motivation to continue creating music that uplifts and connects people to God’s love”.

A Star-Studded Gospel Competition

The gospel categories featured an impressive lineup of nominees, showcasing the depth and diversity of contemporary gospel music:

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album nominees included:

Jekalyn X The Legends – Jekalyn Carr (Waynorth Music)
Live at Maverick City – Maverick City Music (Tribl Records, LLC)
Only on the Road (Live) – Tye Tribbett (Freligious Music)
Tasha – Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Motown Gospel) – WINNER
The Live Reunion: Washington D.C. – JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise (James Town Music)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song nominees included:

“Church” – Tasha Cobbs Leonard feat. John Legend (Motown Gospel)
“Constant – Live” – Maverick City Music, Jordin Sparks, Chandler Moore, Anthony Gargiula (Tribl Records)
“Do it Again” – Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul Recordings/Tribl Records) – WINNER
“Don’t Faint” – Jekalyn Carr (Waynorth Music)
“Jesus I Do” – Mariah Carey feat. The Clark Sisters (gamma.)

Cobbs Leonard’s Banner Year

This NAACP Image Award caps off an extraordinary season for Tasha Cobbs Leonard, which included two 2026 Grammy nominations, multiple #1 chart placements, and a historic late-night television appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! alongside EGOT-winner John Legend. With over 5 billion career streams and now her first NAACP Image Award, Cobbs Leonard continues to break boundaries and cement her status as one of the most powerful, versatile, and essential voices in music.

A Night of Excellence

The 57th NAACP Image Awards recognized exceptional talent across all categories, with special honors going to Chairman’s Award recipient Viola Davis and President’s Award recipient Colman Domingo. The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, with NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson and Samuel L. Jackson honoring the civil rights activist.

Additionally, Salt-n-Pepa and DJ Spinderella were inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, while A$AP Rocky was honored with the Vanguard Award for Fashion at Friday’s Reception & Fashion Show.

Complete 2026 NAACP Image Awards Winners List

MAJOR AWARDS

Entertainer of the Year
Michael B. Jordan

Outstanding Motion Picture
Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture
Michael B. Jordan – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Outstanding Drama Series
Reasonable Doubt

Outstanding Comedy Series
Abbott Elementary

MUSIC AWARDS

Outstanding Album
“Am I The Drama?” – Cardi B (Atlantic Records)

Outstanding Female Artist
Cardi B (Atlantic Records)

Outstanding Male Artist
Kendrick Lamar (pgLang under exclusive license to Interscope Records)

Outstanding New Artist
Lee Vasi – “Love Me to Life” (Capitol CMG/Leeda Music Group)

Outstanding Hip-Hop/Rap Song
“Errtime” – Cardi B (Atlantic Records)

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album
luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Outstanding Jazz Album
“We Insist! 2025” – Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell (Candid Records)

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album
“Sinners (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Proximity Media LLC, under exclusive license to Masterworks, a label of Sony Music Entertainment)

Outstanding International Song
“Is It” – Tyla (Epic Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album
“Tasha” – Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Motown Gospel) WINNER

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song
“Do it Again” – Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul Recordings/Tribl Records) WINNER

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)
803Fresh feat. Fantasia – “Boots on the Ground Remix” (Snake Eyez Music Group/Artist Partner Group)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)
Chris Brown feat. Bryson Tiller & Usher – “It Depends (Remix)” (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)

Outstanding Original Score for TV/Film
“Sinners (Original Motion Picture Score)” (Proximity Media LLC, under exclusive license to Sony Classical, a label of Sony Music Entertainment)

PODCAST AWARDS

Outstanding Podcast – News and Information
“The Don Lemon Show” (Lemon Media Network)

Outstanding Podcast – Lifestyle/Self-Help
“IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson” (Higher Ground)

Outstanding Podcast – Scripted/Limited Series/Short Form
“Interesting Things with JC” (Jim Connors LLC)

For more gospel music news and inspiration, stay tuned to Gospel Newsroom, powered by iPraiseRadio.com – Your source for the latest in gospel music, ministry, and faith-based entertainment.

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Editor’s Note: Submissions for the 57th NAACP Image Awards were received online from September 16 to November 7, 2025, with public online voting running from January 12 to February 7, 2026. The ceremony took place on February 28, 2026, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, with portions livestreamed beginning February 26, 2026.