The spirit of gospel is alive and thriving as the BET Awards 2025 officially revealed its much-anticipated list of nominees — and the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award category is nothing short of soul-stirring. This year’s lineup is a powerful testament to the evolving landscape of gospel and inspirational music, where traditional praise meets contemporary storytelling, and the results are nothing less than divine.
This year’s nominated tracks span a range of musical expressions — from hip-hop-infused gospel to classic worship anthems — reflecting a genre that continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in faith. Leading the charge are gospel giants, crossover collaborations, and artists who’ve used their platforms to uplift and inspire.
Among the 2025 nominees:
- “A God (There Is)” – Common & Pete Rock feat. Jennifer Hudson: A lyrical and soulful blend of hip-hop and gospel energy that taps into deep spiritual reflection.
- “Amen” – Pastor Mike Jr.: A staple voice in modern gospel, Pastor Mike Jr. delivers yet another faith-filled anthem of hope and perseverance.
- “Better Days” – Fridayy: A song that resonates with anyone looking for light in the darkness, balancing vulnerability with divine reassurance.
- “Church Doors” – Yolanda Adams feat. Sir the Baptist & Donald Lawrence (Terry Hunter Remix): A dynamic collaboration that brings a classic gospel foundation into a fresh, dance-infused setting.
- “Constant” – Maverick City Music, Jordin Sparks, Chandler Moore & Anthony Gargiula: A worship anthem reminding believers of God’s unwavering presence.
- “Deserve to Win” – Tamela Mann: With her signature powerhouse vocals, Mann speaks directly to the soul in this uplifting track.
- “Faith” – Rapsody: A poetic and powerful take on spirituality, showing that gospel isn’t limited to any one sound or delivery.
- “Rain Down On Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music: A genre-bending collaboration that marries urban beats with gospel fire, capturing the beauty of spiritual surrender.
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & Co-General Manager, Paramount Africa & Lead at BET International, echoed the significance of this category when announcing the nominations:
“At BET, we are proud to continue elevating and celebrating Black excellence on a global scale… These talents represent the diversity and heartbeat of a new generation, and the global resonance of our sounds.”
While many fans were eager to see who’d make the cut in the high-profile international and hip-hop categories, the gospel nominees served as a reminder that inspirational music still holds a vital place in our culture. With artists like Yolanda Adams, Tamela Mann, and Maverick City Music continuing to innovate, the genre feels more relevant — and more resonant — than ever.
As the BET Awards 2025 draw near, the excitement is palpable. But one thing is clear: in a world that’s constantly changing, the power of faith-fueled music remains a steady, healing force.
Who will take home the award this year? Gospel fans around the world will be tuning in to find out — and to celebrate the voices that keep lifting spirits, one verse at a time.
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