The 2026 NEXT UP ARTIST
The Next Up List isn’t just about new CHH and Urban Gospel artists—it’s about highlighting voices more people need to hear. This list shines a spotlight on artists who are building momentum, creating impactful music, and positioning themselves for what’s next.
The 2026 Next Up criteria includes:
Artists must have:
•Released an album, EP, mixtape, or singles within the past year. (2025)
•Demonstrate a strong work ethic and consistent growth.
•Operate under the CHH radar while making undeniable noise.
Now with no further ado… Ladies and gentlemen… the 2026 Next Up List. Let’s go!
MICA
MICA continued to rise in 2025, building on his reputation as one of Christian hip hop’s most dynamic and emotionally raw voices. His project “Metanoia” became a standout release, showcasing his growth in storytelling and production. He earned a major accolade by entering the Iron Sharpens Iron Hall of Fame, winning seven weeks straight on the Trackstarz IG review, proving his consistency and impact. His songs “Sodom and Gomorrah” and “Unworthy” performed well on Spotify, driving major streaming momentum. MICA also moved crowds with a powerful performance at The Chosen Conference, further cementing his stage presence. He strengthened his fanbase with behind-the-scenes studio content that highlighted his authenticity. His songwriting displayed increased depth, blending vulnerability with bold declarations of faith. Several Christian influencers featured his music, bringing new listeners to his catalog. With strong momentum going into 2026, MICA is poised to become one of the defining artists in inspirational hip hop.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @LITERALLYMICA
TIKTOK: @LITERALLYMICA
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY MICA-1:1, SODOM GOMMORAH, UNWORTHY, TESTIMONY
VERBPRO 12:4
VERBPRO 12:4 had a breakthrough year in 2025, continuing her bold streak in CHH with high-energy releases. She dropped two major singles, “She Different” and “Bout Dat Action,” both of which gained traction across TikTok and Instagram. VERBPRO also participated in the all-female 2024 Gifted Summer Fest Cypher, showcasing her lyrical skill among top rising women in Christian rap. Her clothing line, Aphiēmi Clothing, expanded in visibility after entering the Trackstarz Iron Sharpens Iron Contest and being inducted into the ISI Hall of Fame. She launched weekly “Verse Breakdowns” that deepened fan engagement. Collaborations with rising CHH creators broadened her reach. VERBPRO’s live shows in 2025 were some of her most energetic to date, drawing viral attention. Her disciplined combination of ministry, fashion, and lyricism continues to set her apart.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @VERBPRO124
TIKTOK: @VERBPRO124
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY VERBPRO 12:4- SHE DIFFERENT, BOUT DAT ACTION, BATTLE CRY II, THEY DONT HEMI THO
JAB
JAB continued cementing his place in CHH with one of his strongest years to date. He released the single “How to Move,” which sparked online traction and strengthened his streaming presence. JAB is also an Iron Sharpens Iron Hall of Fame inductee. His previous project, “Activated,” continued making noise — even a year later — proving the longevity and staying power of his music. He expanded his artistic range using new flows and melodic elements. JAB’s transparency and passion for mental and spiritual health made him a powerful voice for young listeners. As his music continues spreading organically, JAB’s presence in the CHH community will becomes even more undeniable.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @JABTHEONE
TIKTOK: @JABTHEONE4
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY JAB- HOW TO MOVE, MY TIME, TOO LOW KEY, OUT THE WAY
DONUTELLO
DONUTELLO had a standout year, showcasing incredible versatility as both an artist and creator by entering the Iron Sharpens Iron Contest and becoming a Hall of Famer. This was a signal of his growing impact. Donuttello launched a new creative collective, We Are Faith, alongside artists WON and AyeLexMadeThat, demonstrating his leadership in cultivating community. He released multiple strong singles, including “Can’t Get Enough,” “Masterpiece,” and “On The Way,” all of which were well-received. Beyond music, Donuttello excelled as a content creator, shooting music videos, editing visuals, and producing podcast episodes. He hit new streaming milestones as listeners embraced his energy and creativity. Collaborations helped expand his sonic versatility. Donuttello fused humor, charisma, and ministry seamlessly across platforms. His growing creative empire positions him as one of the most multifaceted talents in CHH.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @DONUTELLOCREATES
TIKTOK: @DONUTELLOCREATES
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY DONUTELLO- CANT GET ENOUGH, HE SAID, TAKE SOME TIME, GOLDEN GATES
DE LA CRUZ
DE LA CRUZ delivered one of his most explosive years yet, elevating both his artistry and platform. He made a major appearance with a viral On The Radar Freestyle, putting his pen and presence on full display. De La Cruz also opened for Alex Jean on The Golden Tour, with the Dallas show coming close to selling out. In 2025 he released two major projects — “De La Jerk Tape” and “Imposter” — showcasing both depth and creativity. He posted consistent behind-the-scenes content that strengthened fan connection. International listeners continued discovering his poetic storytelling. His lyrical craftsmanship shined through cyphers and live sessions. With every performance and project, De La Cruz solidifies himself as one of CHH’s most compelling emerging voices.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @CROSSBOYDELACRUZ
TIKTOK: @CROSSBOYDELACRUZ
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY DE LA CRUZ- FAITH ON ME, FAITH WITHOUT WORKS, KIMBO, WORK FOR IT
BRIANA SHANAE
BRIANA SHANAE experienced a breakout 2025 and expanded her influence across Christian and mainstream spaces. She served as an opening act on the Tye Tribbett We Outside Tour, exposing her music to thousands nationwide. Briana received a major co-sign from Kirk Franklin on Hip Hop Wired, boosting her visibility. She also performed at the 2025 Holy Smoke Festival with Indie Tribe and WHATUPRG, marking one of her biggest platform moments yet. Her song “WTHoly” went viral after posts from Lecrae and SZA, pushing her to new audiences. She delivered inspiring performances at women’s conferences and collaborations highlighted her vocal and rap versatility. Fans gravitated toward her transparent storytelling and faith-centered encouragement. Briana Shanae is rapidly becoming one of CHH’s most powerful female forces.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @OFFICIALBRIANASHANAE
TIKTOK: @BRITRILLA1
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY BRIANA SHANAE-BLESSED, DOWN IN THE VALLEY, BOAZ, NEW DAY
ISSAC MANSFIELD
Isaac Mansfield had a major year, strengthening his artistry through collaborations and consistent releases. He dropped key singles and projects including “From the Dust,” “305,” and “From A Boy To A Man Vol. 4,” demonstrating growth in both sound and storytelling. Isaac also scored a major collaboration with Aaron Cole and Ty Brasel, expanding his reach within top tiers of CHH. In 2025, he was a featured voice at the Agents of Change Conference, where his performances drew strong reactions. He also continued sharing his testimony across social platforms. Playlist placements boosted his streaming numbers significantly and fans praised his emotionally honest songwriting. Isaac Mansfield’s progression in 2025 marks him as an artist stepping fully into his purpose.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @ISSACMANSFIELD
TIKTOK: @ISSACMANSFIELD
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY ISSAC MANSFIELD-DAY AND NIGHT, PERPLEXED, NEW THINGS, THIS ONE FOR YALL
DA COMMISSIONER
Da Commissioner continued bringing grit, authority, and ministry power to Christian hip hop in 2025. He released his project “The Great Commission,” a bold, scripture-heavy body of work. Collaborations with Selah the Corner, YP aka Young Paul, and Ayo Shamir helped elevate the album’s lyrical impact. Da Commissioner also hit the Gritty Stage at the 2025 Flavor Fest Conference, delivering one of his most electric performances to date. He expanded his presence with his sermon-style rap content. His outreach events continued impacting urban communities. Fans love his authenticity and biblical depth. Da Commissioner’s momentum this year positions him to be known in the faith-driven street hip hop.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @_DA_COMMISSIONER
TIK TOK: @_DA_COMMISSIONER
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY DA COMMISSIONER- EYE FOR AN EYE, SECOND COMING, SLAY THE OPPY, NOBODY MOVE
GAVIN THE HOTROD
GAVIN THE HOTROD had a huge year, blending personality, energy, and high-level artistry. He released a collab album with DJ Mykael, and locked in major features with Social Club Misfits, Scootie Wop, and Jered Sanders. In a major career move, Gavin signed to Marty of Social Club’s Apollo Records label. He also launched his clothing line Back Row Supply, expanding his entrepreneurial presence. Gavin was featured in the God Always Cypher on Sway in the Morning, earning massive respect in the Christian hip-hop community. His high-energy live shows have remained a fan-favorite. Collaborations expanded his sonic range. His humor and authenticity made his social media presence explode. Gavin continues rising as one of CHH’s most charismatic young stars.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @GAVINTHEHOTROD
TIKTOK: @GAVINTHEHOTROD
SONGS RECOMMENDED FROM GAVIN THE HOTROD-HARD OUT HERE!, WHAT THEY GON DO, CANT NEVER COULD, BETTER THAN EVER
CHRIS ELIJAH
CHRIS ELIJA continued proving his excellence as both an artist and content creator. In 2025 he released “Act of God II,” one of his most acclaimed projects so far. He worked with legendary producer Zaytoven, further elevating his sound. Chris also collaborated with Jered Sanders, Parris Chariz, and ToyaLove, strengthening his presence among elite CHH talent. Beyond music, Chris created the #1 Urban Christian series “Mecca” and his men’s faith show “Men’s BS (Bible Study)” — both of which drew massive engagement. He delivered powerful worship-infused performances. His social media became a hub for devotional and creative content. Streaming numbers surged with each new release. Chris Elijah remains one of CHH’s most respected and innovative voices.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @CHRISELIJAH
TIKTOK: @1KCHRISELIJAH
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY CHRIS ELIJAH- TALKIN BOUT, MURDER SHE WROTE, LifeR, FLOCKA
PLAIN JAMES
PLAIN JAMES maintained a powerful presence in CHH through music, ministry, and media. He continued serving as a co-host on the Trackstarz Show, contributing to one of Christian hip hop’s most influential platforms. He collaborated with Dre Murray, Mission, and T-Strike, delivering hard-hitting tracks consistent with his gritty style. His Trap Theology Podcast is on the way and is already gaining momentum with teaser clips. Plain James also went viral multiple times this year through collaborations with Organic Ministries, strengthening his digital impact. He remained heavily involved in street evangelism. Fans praised his authenticity and ministry-first approach. Streaming numbers continued climbing steadily and he remains a pillar in the Christian trap rap community.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @PLAINJAMESDW
TIKTOK: @TRAPTHEOLOGY
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY PLAIN JAMES- JESUS REIGNS, ATLANTA TO HOUSTON, RIDE REMIX, COACH PRIME
MIZ TIFFANY
MIZ TIFFANY continued breaking barriers as one of Christian hip hop’s most decorated female pioneers. Her 2025 single “He’s Been Good” achieved major success, hitting the Billboard Gospel Hot 100 charts. She added another accolade as a Stellar Award winner, continuing her track record of excellence. Miz Tiffany was also recognized as Female Entertainer of the Year at the Mississippi Awards. In addition, she served as a GRAMMY U mentor, investing in the next generation of creatives. Her social media highlights showcased her bold style and powerful performances. Fans celebrated her longevity and leadership in Christian entertainment. She continued collaborating across gospel, CHH, and inspirational genres. Miz Tiffany remains a trailblazer with unmatched influence and artistry.
SOCIAL MEDIA-
IG: @OFFICIALMIZTIFFANY
TIKTOK: @OFFICIALMIZTIFFANY
SONGS RECOMMENDED BY MIZ TIFFANY- POWER AND GLORY, THE BLOOD, PRESSURE, HE’S BEEN GOOD
