NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, January 9, 2025. (Banner Photo: Kijan Boone)
Each week, dozens of singles and a handful of projects are released in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) and Urban Soul spaces. Below, we have listed a few highlights and included the rest for your review. As always, follow our New Christian Rap and Hip-Hop playlist on Spotify and Apple Music to listen to all the latest.
Kijan Boone - "Fisher of Men" Jacksonville’s independent rapper Kijan Boone starts off 2026 with a call towards outreach and discipleship. Boone continues to solidify his reputation for blending street-level authenticity with high-level spiritual conviction. The latest single intertwines his personal testimony with an anthem-driven soundscape of praises.
One of the most striking elements of "Fisher of Men" is its production. Boone leans into a trend that has been gaining traction in CHH; combining the organic warmth of an acoustic guitar with the heavy, rhythmic punch of 808 bass lines. It feels intimate enough for a personal prayer session but energetic enough for a summer playlist. The bright, plucked strings provide a sense of "fishing by the water" serenity, while the crisp drums keep the track firmly rooted in contemporary urban culture.
While the hook is infectious and easy to sing along to, the verses are where Boone’s storytelling shines. He doesn't just quote Matthew 4:19; he contextualizes it for 2026. "Fisher of Men" is a testament to Boone’s growth as an artist. It manages to be biblically sound without being "corny," and musically modern without losing its soul. It’s a track that respects the tradition of the gospel while demanding a seat at the table of modern music. Stream “Fisher of Men” on Spotify and Apple Music.
Shepherd - "I'M SAVED" Following the high-energy momentum of his previous hits like "Gametime," the Miami-based powerhouse Shepherd returns with "I'M SAVED." In a landscape where CHH often leans into the "struggle" or the "hustle," Shepherd chooses to pivot toward a loud, unapologetic celebration of the finished work of the cross. True to the "Miami sound," Shepherd doesn't do "quiet." The track is built on a foundation of shimmering brass samples and aggressive, syncopated 808s that give it a stadium-ready feel.
While the title is simple, the lyrics dive into the complexity of modern identity. Shepherd uses "I'M SAVED" not just as a religious slogan, but as a reclamation of his narrative. He contrasts his "old self" with his "new life," but focuses less on the darkness of the past and more on the brightness of his current security. He emphasizes that salvation isn't a feeling he has to maintain, but a status he has been given. The single is a masterclass in how to make a "testimony song" sound like a radio hit. Shepherd manages to keep the gospel at the center without sacrificing the sonic quality. It is loud, it is proud, and it is a refreshing dose of pure joy in a heavy world. Stream on Spotify and Apple Music.
Reece Lache' - "Bridges" Holy Culture Records' Reece Lache' blesses audience with a blended mixture of her vocalist and lyricist skill sets on this quick heater. The track serves as a "bridge" of sorts between the events of 2025 and what's in the future for the new year. Also, the song contains praises back to our Lord and Savior and all God provides. Love the production mixture of the acoustic guitar and 808s. Think of this as an intro track for 2026. Stream "Bridges" on Spotify and Apple Music.
Propaganda x ProducerTrentTaylor feat. Danny A. Thomas - "Gas You Up"
Miles Minnick and Kendrick Bourne - "Red and Gold Timin'"
Skema Boy – “A Man Named Jesus”
Alex Jean - "NY Knicks"
Sal Ly and Isreal Houghton – “Out of the Dark”
Eris Ford – “FOCUS”
Tay Stunna and Miles Minnick - "Everyday"
Thre and Afoe – “God’s Time Don’t Fit on a Wrist Watch (GTDFONWW)”
Cutright feat. JusRzd – “Duck Tales”
Phil J. – “DUECES”
Isaac Mansfield - "Lord Knows"
Yung Drew feat. J J L and tonyxtrotter – “Rent Due”
EJ Swavv feat. Jeff Knox and NandoSTL – “Déjà vu (REMIX)”
K-SEE – “Whole Lotta”
Kris Noel - "STILL DREAMING FREESTYLE"
Ignatius – “Corners”
JXYD3N - "Keep Me In Your Prayers"
Red Tips - "Rush"
Nameless Servant – “Set Em Free”
Allen Thomas – “Area 51”
Luke Hopp – “GIVE ME JESUS”
Das the Nomad feat. KXINGXCLUTXCH and Zippy - "Eternal Cephalectomy"
Vennisay – “2026”
kappaa! – “STRAIGHT TO THE MOON”
Mike Malagies - "Lean On You"
Deca OTA feat. Rosen - "Crossroads"
Lord Badu - "BIG BLESSINGS"
Josh P - "IM NOT HOLLYWOOD!"
Matt Mogg – “Marty Supreme”
Prince Ray - "Not On My Own"
Joshua Galla is an audiophile hyped about all forms of art in music, but his passion rests behind CHH and soulful vibes. He's a devout husband, father, and child of God. Concerts are his happy place. He has been an NRT contributor since 2016.
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