Summer 2023 New Christian Music Preview

Summer is, by far, my favorite time of year. I love the summer vacations, beach trips, and incredible music that this season encapsulates. As the weather warms up and families plan their annual beach vacations, artists are curating new albums to accompany you on your road trip.

With new music coming from Steffany Gretzinger, Dennis Quaid, Tasha Layton, and more, this season will be full of amazing new tunes. If you’re looking for a list of upcoming summer jams, please don’t hesitate to look further. We’ll highlight eight new releases you’ll want to experience this season.

Social Club Misfits, Everyone Loves A Comeback Story (Deluxe) – June 23

Everyone loves a comeback story and a deluxe album, right? On June 23, hip-hop duo Social Club Misfits will release the deluxe edition of their latest album, Everyone Loves A Comeback Story. The 12-track album featured artists like Ryan Ellis, Jordan Feliz, and Evvie McKinney, and the deluxe version will be no different.

Social Club Misfits is collaborating with more artists for their upcoming extended release, including Luke Johns from The Young Escape, who remixed their track “Rendezvous.”

Whether they’re working with Christian pop artists The Young Escape, Blanca, or 1K Phew, Social Club Misfits’ ability to collaborate with artists from various backgrounds and cultures sets them apart. I’m excited to see who else they’ll partner with for the release of Everyone Loves A Comeback Story (Deluxe).

Tasha Layton, “Never” – June 23

While contemporary artist Tasha Layton may be a new name to the Christian music scene, she’s been in the industry for a while. For four years, she was a backup vocalist for Katy Perry, which gave her unique opportunities to offer her vocals for Disneyland, Cirque du Soleil, and other big names. After working with Katy, Tasha settled in South Carolina before moving to Nashville, Tennessee. Following her move, she began establishing herself as a Christian artist.

Married to producer Keith Everette Smith, the couple have often co-written and produced songs, including Tasha’s latest single, “Never.” The latest single, which follows Tasha’s chart-topping hit “How Far,” was written by Tasha, Keith, and songwriters AJ Pruis and Matthew West. As a new artist, she’s already making waves in the industry, and I can’t wait to see how far she goes. (Pun intended.)

Sarah Reeves, “Get Back Your Fight” – June 23

On June 23, pop singer/songwriter Sarah Reeves will debut her latest single, “Get Back Your Fight.” In March, Sarah posted a snippet of the song on social media while it was still a work in progress. Due to its popularity with over 28,000 views, the fans’ love for it convinced her to release it as a single.

“Get Back Your Fight” is an anthem for anyone struggling with their mental health. The honest lyrics paint a vulnerable picture of the internal battle many of us fight. Etched with honesty yet filled with hope, Sarah sings, “Fear is a lie/We’ll be alright/Don’t let this battle take days off your life/Sun’s gonna shine, future is bright/Promise one day you’re gonna get back your fight.” Take advantage of this new single from Sarah Reeves.

Steffany Gretzinger, The Narrow Way – July 7

Former Bethel Music worship leader Steffany Gretzinger is known for her astounding vocals and striking lyrics. In 2014, she released her debut solo album, The Undoing, followed by Blackout, Forever Amen, and Faith Of My Father. Now, she’s back with her latest album, The Narrow Way.

Releasing on July 7, the eight-track record features collaborations with fellow worship leaders such as Kalley on “City of God” and Leeland on “No Turning Back.” The previously released title track, “The Narrow Way,” dropped in May along with an accompanying lyric video, which gained over 204,000 views. There’s no doubt–fans can’t get enough of Steffany Gretzinger’s music.

Red Rocks Worship, Ascend – July 14

Hailing from Red Rocks Church in Colorado, Red Rocks Worship has inspired the world with its music since its 2015 debut album, Into the Light. In 2021, Red Rocks Worship returned to the music industry with their album “Things of Heaven.” Their new record, Ascend, is set to release on July 14th. With 14 tracks and five accompanying live videos, the album marks a new era for the worship team.

Red Rocks Worship’s previously released singles, “Good Plans” and “Miracle in Me,” are already proving popular, with several thousand views on the newly released music videos. If you’re looking for a new album to worship along with this summer, be sure to add Ascend to your music library.

Stephen Stanley, Divided Frame of Mind – July 21

Although Stephen Stanley is a new artist in the Christian music industry, he’s a multi-faceted musician already leading a successful career. After an accident as a child, Stephen became deaf in his left ear. Yet, despite his hearing loss, he quickly discovered his musical abilities. At the age of nine, Stephen learned how to play guitar. At the age of 13, he started playing piano and drums.

Stephen’s passion and talent for music led him to begin writing songs and leading worship for his local church. Now, he’s a newly signed artist with Capitol CMG. After years of developing his craft and remaining faithful to the Church, he’s becoming a hit musician.

Following his 2021 single “No Hopeless Soul,” Stephen is releasing his debut album, Divided Frame of Mind, on July 21. The 14-track record features six music videos recorded at a live show in Atlanta, Georgia, with videos for “The Edge” and “Rest In The Father” out now. Big things are in store for Stephen Stanley, and he’s an artist to keep your eye on.

Dante Bowe, Dante Bowe – July 21

After parting ways with Maverick City Music, gospel artist Dante Bowe announced the launch of TRUE Music, an independent music management company. As the co-founder/CEO of TRUE Music, Dante is the first artist on the roster. To sign and develop new recording artists and songwriters, the management company is breaking down barriers and uniting artists from various backgrounds and cultures.

Along with the news of TRUE Music, Dante Bowe released his new solo single, “Hide Me.” While fans were surprised by the news, they were elated by his comeback to the music industry. On July 21, Dante will drop his third solo album, Dante Bowe.

With more than a dozen songs on the album, Dante’s new record features collaborations with fellow artists like Ada Ehi and Jekalyn Carr. I love Dante’s emphasis on unity, and I’m excited to see where that passion will take him in the years ahead.

Dennis Quaid, Fallen: A Gospel Record for Sinners – July 28

You know Dennis Quaid from his roles in The Day After Tomorrow, The Parent Trap, and Yours Mine & Ours. But what you might not have known is that Dennis Quaid is also a musician. When the Erwin Brothers’ film I Can Only Imagine came out in 2018, Dennis debuted his Christian music.

The release of “On My Way To Heaven” on the I Can Only Imagine soundtrack pleasantly surprised listeners with the unexpected musical talent of the actor. Now he’s releasing a full-length album, Fallen: A Gospel Record for Sinners.

Releasing on July 28, the 12-track record features the previously released single, “On My Way to Heaven,” along with renditions of hymns like “Amazing Grace” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus.” It’s exciting to see an actor breaking into the music industry, and I’m sure these songs will be well-received. Pre-order Fallen: A Gospel Record for Sinners here.