Every year, a new wave of artists rises to the surface—voices filled with passion, purpose, and something meaningful to say. For this special NRT collaborative editorial, our staff members have come together to spotlight the breakthrough artists we believe are poised to make a significant impact in the year ahead. From bold new debuts to fresh creative chapters from familiar voices, these are the artists capturing our attention with authentic faith, compelling storytelling, and music that resonates deeply. Here are the names we believe you’ll be hearing a lot more of very soon.
Bailey Thompson
Bailey Thompson is a 24-year-old Christian singer-songwriter whose music blends elements of folk, country, pop, and indie. I had the pleasure of meeting the NRT Music artist on the red carpet at the NewReleaseToday We Love Awards in Franklin, Tennessee. Her heartfelt lyrics and melodic tunes reflect her journey of faith and personal growth, connecting with listeners through a genuine and inspiring testimony. If you are a fan of singer-songwriters Riley Clemmons, Hannah Kerr, and Leanna Crawford, you’ll enjoy Bailey’s music.
Check out her song, "Dirty Laundry." The song powerfully conveys the idea that, as His followers, we accept that God will never abandon or forsake us. Join Bailey as she sings: "Jesus didn’t die so I would let my past haunt me/Not a single one of us has any room to be haughty/Leave the judgin’ to God, we all got dirty laundry.” - Kevin Davis
Rachel DeLong
Rachel DeLong is a 22-year-old Christian singer-songwriter from New Hampshire. Her music combines elements of pop, rock, and country. As an independent artist, she has previously released four songs (one in 2024 and three in 2025) and will release a full album in late spring 2026. Her debut album will include nine new songs and was produced by the talented Chad Carouthers, one of the producers of the "David" movie soundtrack.
Rachel has an incredible vocal range, plays guitar very well, and has a strong, energetic stage presence. She is humble, friendly, and kind, with a positive message, and she is very relatable to young women. She'll graduate from college in May and will hit the festival circuit again this summer. I have been following her for about eight years now and have watched her grow in her writing, vocals, guitar skills, and stage presence. I expect Rachel's music career to take off (in a good way) in 2026.
Check out her song, "Clarity." This song features heartfelt lyrics from Rachel that focus on self-image, finding one's identity, and self-worth in Christ. Its empowering words help listeners resist peer pressure, negativity, and the devil's lies. - Tom Gilligan
Allison Eide
One of my favorite parts of exploring Christian music is discovering many amazing new artists. Allison Eide is one of my favorites. The pop artist had been making music for a few years, following in the footsteps of her late dad, Peer Eide. In 2023, she released her breakthrough viral ballad "Love Who I Am." Since then, Allison's honest songwriting and authenticity have touched millions. She released her debut album of the same name in 2025, along with several singles, balancing bold pop songs with deep, heartfelt anthems. I especially love her heart for my generation and how she continues to be a voice encouraging listeners to be honest with God and find identity in Jesus above all else. - Bradden Ford
Lo Cloud
I'm cheating a bit here since the band is led by a well-known Christian music vocalist, Matt Hammitt of Sanctus Real fame. Hammitt led Sanctus Real during some of their most successful years in the 2000s and 2010s. While Hammitt has remained a presence in Christian music as a solo artist, Lo Cloud finds him showcasing some of the rock skills that made Sanctus Real so beloved on their early albums.
Lo Cloud has been releasing singles for just over a year now and has recently compiled them into a proper full-length EP called Sleepwalker, named after their debut single. I believe having a full project will help them break through this year. Songs like "Sleepwalker" and "Stars Align" are genuine hits. They crank up the guitars and put a rockier spin on Hammitt's signature vocals. While Hammitt sounds great in Christian AC/CHR, there's something about his voice that feels very fitting for rock. Here's hoping this is the year the band makes a splash and reminds the industry why Hammitt is such a beloved vocalist in Christian rock. - JJ Francesco
SAPHIRE
NRT Music artist SAPHIRE is a visionary creator who brings her dreams to life with courage and unwavering purpose. She leads with both a clear vision and a deep commitment to slow, steady rest. Her impact begins with genuine, authentic relationships that reflect the heart of the Father by mourning with those who mourn and rejoicing with those who rejoice. Her passionate voice, which influences culture, aims to reveal the true heart of the Lord through genuine, heartfelt music.
Since she was 13, SAPHIRE has spoken and sung in schools across Minnesota, openly sharing her personal story of mental health and suicide prevention. "Here at the Table" offers a deeply moving reflection on betrayal and the unexpected beauty of mercy. If you're a fan of singer/songwriters Mary-Clair, Hannah Kerr, and Leanna Crawford, you’ll enjoy SAPHIRE’s music. Join in with SAPHIRE as she sings: “He who died for enemies/Made a way for you and me/To look across and finally see/That healing starts.” - Kevin Davis
Psalms of David
As the founder of NRT Music, I surround myself with artists I believe have much to say early in their music ministries and who are more than worthy of inclusion on this list. You can follow all our artists here. Some of those artists have already been mentioned above, and Psalms Of David is one more. His breakout single, "He Loves You," is a raw, soul-bearing plea to the hurting, the wandering, and the forgotten. Sung from the perspective of a brother—someone who's walked through darkness and come out the other side—it’s more than just a song; it’s a lifeline. It's a great starting point, followed by his full-length debut album, Heart Surgery, a collection of new music that unfolds like a spiritual operation—confessing sin, confronting pride, and wrestling with overwhelming doubt, loss, and self-deception, while clinging to the grace that refuses to let go. - Kevin McNeese
Carly Ann Taylor
Last year, Curb Records signed a new artist and songwriter who might be one of the best artists of the past year. And she has only one song out. Carly Ann Taylor is a soulful and passionate vocalist, songwriter, and worship leader based in San Diego, California, who shares her journey from a life of dysfunction to one of redemption. Her songwriting will reach many people this year as her solo career takes off. Check out her debut single, "Why Should I Worry (Remind Me Version)." - Kevin McNeese
OpenAI's ChatGPT aided with this article. Assembled from all corners of North America and many other places in between, the NRTeam consists of staffers whose energy is equally devoted to loving and writing about the music they cherish.
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