If you thought gospel rap was losing its edge, the 2025 Stellar Awards likely made you eat your words—with rhythm. This year’s show turned faith into fireworks and beats into blessings, proving that Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) isn’t just surviving; it’s setting the pace.
The performances were a full-on display of artistic grit, spiritual energy, and yes, a touch of holy swagger. Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center pulsed with life as both rising stars and seasoned legends gave audiences a night to remember.
Rising Stars Who Lit Up the Stage
Emerging artists like Jor’dan Armstrong and Wande didn’t just perform—they arrived. Armstrong’s performance of “My Lady” was smooth enough to make even the stiffest crowd move, weaving hip-hop flair with R&B finesse. His vocals carried warmth, confidence, and that subtle edge that keeps gospel contemporary without losing its roots.
Then came Wande, fierce as ever, performing “Big God” with a commanding energy that lit up the stage. Her lyrics of empowerment and bold faith hit differently under the lights—sharp, sincere, and entirely her own.
Together, these two artists showed that CHH’s next generation isn’t just talented; it’s visionary. Their performances spoke directly to the youth, proving that the message of faith can still sound fresh, vibrant, and relevant.
Legends Who Proved They Still Reign
If the new voices brought spark, the veterans brought thunder. Lecrae and Kirk Franklin took the stage like men who’ve seen the mountain and still know how to climb it. Lecrae’s set blended introspection with energy—his newer tracks pulsed with gospel truth wrapped in sleek, modern production. His performance reminded everyone that consistency in message doesn’t mean stagnation in sound.
Kirk Franklin, meanwhile, was pure electricity. His latest single had the crowd clapping, shouting, and crying—sometimes all at once. With his signature mix of choir-backed soul and contagious stage presence, he turned the Symphony Center into a sanctuary of joy. Their return to the Stellar stage was more than nostalgia—it was proof that longevity in CHH isn’t just about talent but transformation.
Conclusion
The 2025 Stellar Awards didn’t just celebrate music—it celebrated movement. From Jor’dan Armstrong’s smooth, faith-driven grooves to Wande’s lyrical boldness and the timeless excellence of Lecrae and Kirk Franklin, the night reflected CHH’s full spectrum of sound and soul. Each performance was a reminder that gospel-inspired hip-hop isn’t confined to the church—it’s spilling into culture, carrying light with it.
In the end, the stage wasn’t just lit up by talent, but by testimony. The balance of fresh creativity and enduring influence made one thing clear: CHH continues to evolve without ever losing its purpose.
Which performance hit you hardest—Wande’s fearless flow or Lecrae’s lyrical fire? Share your take and relive the night with us at DLK Urban Gospel and Christian Hip-Hop, where every verse finds its echo and every beat tells a story.
