Christian Music's Biggest Night: ASCAP Honors Songwriting Excellence

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) celebrated the most-performed songs in Christian music at their 47th annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards in Nashville. The event recognized the industry's top songwriters, artists, and publishers, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Elevating the Voices of Christian Music's Finest

Honoring the Songwriter of the Year: Matthew West

Matthew West, a six-time ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter of the Year, continues to captivate audiences with his powerful lyrics and soulful melodies. His most-performed songs, including "Any More," "Don't Stop Praying," "Heaven Changes Everything," "Never," "Running Home," and "Strong," have resonated deeply with listeners, earning him the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award in 2023 for his extraordinary career achievements. With 15 albums under his belt and numerous collaborations with renowned artists like Casting Crowns, Amy Grant, Scotty McCreery, and Rascal Flatts, West's impact on the Christian music landscape is undeniable. As he embarks on his Don't Stop Praying Tour, his commitment to inspiring and uplifting his fans remains unwavering.

Celebrating the Songwriter/Artist of the Year: Brandon Lake

Brandon Lake, the ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year, has solidified his place as a multi-talented force in the industry. His most-performed songs, "Fear Is Not My Future," "Praise," "Praise You Anywhere," and "Trust in God," have resonated with audiences, earning him 16 Dove Award nominations, including Artist of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year, and four in the Song of the Year category. Lake's recent release of the "For the One: A Tour Documentary" with Phil Wickham and his ongoing Tear Off the Roof Tour further showcase his versatility and dedication to his craft. His recognition as the 2023 ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter of the Year is a testament to his exceptional songwriting abilities and his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

Celebrating the Song of the Year: "Thank God I Do"

The ASCAP Christian Music Song of the Year, "Thank God I Do," co-written by Nate Ruess and published by Warner Chappell Music and Bearvon Music, has become a chart-topping sensation. The song, recorded by Lauren Daigle, reached the top spot on multiple Billboard charts, including Christian Airplay, Christian AC Airplay, Hot Christian Songs, Christian Streaming Songs, and Christian Digital Song Sales. Ruess, a past recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame and a multiple Grammy winner, has also had his work featured by renowned artists such as Keith Urban, Pink, Halsey, Kesha, Maroon 5, and Ellie Goulding, further solidifying his status as a versatile and acclaimed songwriter.

Recognizing the Publisher of the Year: Essential Music Publishing

The ASCAP Christian Music Publisher of the Year Award was presented to Essential Music Publishing, whose impressive catalog includes some of the most-played songs of the past year, such as "Any More," "Don't Stop Praying," "Praise," "Praise You Anywhere," "Somebody To You," "Strong," "These Days," "Trust in God," and administered titles "Fear Is Not My Future," "Never," "Rescue," and "Running Home." Essential Music Publishing's Vice President, Jamie Rodgers, accepted the award, a testament to the company's commitment to nurturing and supporting Christian music's most talented songwriters and artists.

Celebrating the Vibrant Christian Music Community

The 47th annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards was a night of celebration, recognizing the exceptional contributions of the industry's most influential figures. The event, hosted by ASCAP's Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Matthews, Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams, Vice President of Nashville Membership Mike Sistad, and Nashville Assistant Vice President, Strategic Services, Kele Currier, brought together acclaimed songwriters, Christian music stars, and standout industry creatives. The evening kicked off with a performance by five-time ASCAP Christian Songwriter of the Year, Ben Glover, setting the tone for a night filled with musical excellence and industry accolades.As the Christian music community continues to thrive, the ASCAP Christian Music Awards serve as a testament to the power of faith-inspired music to uplift, inspire, and connect people around the world. The recognition of these exceptional songwriters, artists, and publishers not only celebrates their individual achievements but also highlights the collective impact of the Christian music industry in shaping the cultural landscape.