Music
ZACARDI CORTEZ DELIVERS POWERFUL MESSAGE OF TRANSFORMATION WITH NEW SINGLE “WORKING ON ME”
Multiple Stellar Award-Winning Artist Partners with Blacksmoke Worldwide for Soul-Stirring New Release
Gospel music powerhouse Zacardi Cortez has released a deeply personal and transformative new single, “Working on Me,” through Blacksmoke Worldwide Music. The track, which dropped on November 14, 2025, serves as a featured selection from his latest album, Ibhar: The Journey (Chapter 2).
A Prayer for Restoration
“Working on Me” finds Cortez in his most vulnerable and transparent form, delivering a confessional plea to God for a “brand new start” through spiritual restoration. The song showcases the vocalist’s signature passionate delivery as he shouts and squalls like a seasoned quartet lead, channeling raw emotion and authentic testimony.
“He’s not through with me yet,” Cortez declares in the powerful track, which he co-wrote with Christopher Conway and producer Morgan Turner for Blacksmoke Worldwide CEO Kerry Douglas. The song acknowledges that some choices “only led to mistakes,” but emphasizes the ongoing work of transformation in his life.
“It’s my testimony, too,” Cortez shares. “I’m a work-in-progress, so don’t throw me away.”
A Journey of Excellence
While Cortez made his solo debut with 2012’s The Introduction, the gospel community had already been introduced to his incendiary vocal prowess through his memorable leads on James Fortune & FIYA’s “The Blood” (2008) and “I Believe” (2010). His partnership with Blacksmoke Worldwide continues to showcase his evolution as both an artist and minister.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Fans eager to experience Zacardi Cortez live in concert won’t have to wait long. The acclaimed artist has several performances scheduled for 2026:
January 26, 2026 – New Year’s Gospel Celebration Concert
- Morning Star Baptist Church, Shreveport, Louisiana
- Featuring John P. Kee, Don Pope & Joseph Lindsey
- Doors: 5:00 PM | Pre-Show: 6:00 PM | Concert: 7:00 PM
March 1, 2026 – Sound of Freedom JoyFest
- Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, South Carolina
October 3, 2026 – Concert Performance
- Liacouras Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Show time: 8:00 PM
Streaming Now
“Working on Me” is currently available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. The song has already been recognized as the Journal of Gospel Music’s “Pick of the Week” for January 12, 2026, earning praise for its honest lyrics and powerful vocal performance.
For a generation seeking transparency and authenticity in worship music, Zacardi Cortez’s “Working on Me” arrives as a timely reminder that transformation is a journey, and God’s work in our lives is ongoing.
For more information about Zacardi Cortez and upcoming tour dates, visit iPraiseRadio.com or follow the artist on social media.
“Working on Me” is available now on all streaming platforms via Blacksmoke Worldwide Music.