The 2025 NEXT UP LIST
This Next Up List is not just for the up & coming CHH & Urban Gospel artists. It is also to give a spotlight to the CHH & Urban Gospel artists who more people need to hear about.
With The Next UP criteria ranging from:
-Having an album, EP, mixtape or singles out the previous year (2024)
-Strong work ethic
-Artists under the CHH radar.
So with no further ado here is the 2025 Next Up List!
– DJ Jeremaya
404 CHEW
404 Chew is a Trap Gospel rapper hailing from the Westside of Atlanta, driven by a powerful mission to serve, reach, and teach through his music. With a deep passion for sharing the gospel, 404 Chew blends the raw energy of trap music with powerful messages of faith, hope, and redemption. His sound speaks directly to those in the streets, especially those in the trap, as he seeks to bridge the gap between the gospel and urban culture. Committed to using his platform for positive change, 404 Chew’s music is a reflection of his desire to reach people where they are, offering them a path to transformation through Christ. His goal is simple: to let the music speak to the hearts of those in need, bringing them closer to the message of Jesus and the hope He offers.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
404 Chew: How I knew that God called me to music is when I see the fruit from my loved ones in the streets saying they was impacted and pushed closer to God by my music.
TZ: What is the message behind your album “God Bless The Trap”?
404 Chew: The message behind “God Bless The Trap” is a prayer for God to help and bless all the traps across the world. Not just physically, but mentally that the enemy would try to keep us in bondage.
TZ: How has the saying “serve reach and teach” impacted your life?
404 Chew: Them saying serve reach and teach is something that was given to me as a kid seeing my older mentors in my god family served me in pushed me closer to minstry is what really started the saying in I hope to do the same as well
TZ: What Can We expect from you in 2025?
404 Chew: What y’all can expect from me in 2025 is way more drops and more heartfelt and purpose based songs.
Four songs that 404 Chew recommends to listeners – God Bless The Trap, Chew Sorrow, Chit Chat and Get Back
Social Media – Instagram & TikTok- @404.chew
BRENNO
Brenno is a dynamic Christian artist who blends hard-hitting bars with smooth, melodic choruses, always giving glory to God through his music. Known for his versatility, Brenno’s ability to seamlessly transition between rapping and singing sets him apart in the Christian music scene. He first gained attention on SoundCloud for his creative remake of Drake’s “0 to 100/The Catch Up,” where his unique style and raw talent caught the ears of many. With a heart focused on praising God and impacting listeners with powerful messages, Brenno continues to push boundaries in both his lyrics and musical creativity.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Brenno: I’ve always been surrounded by music and I’ve always loved it, but I really knew that God called me to do this in 2020. Making music went from being just a hobby to becoming a calling and an assignment when I graduated from Bible college in 2020. It was at that point when I felt the peace and freedom to give it my all. Since then, it’s been an amazing ride!
TZ: What was the concept for the songs “One Way”, “Yeshua” and “Choice”?
Brenno: I love all three of these songs. Shoutout to K Diamond who produced and engineered all three.
“One Way” is my way of telling the world that Jesus is the only way to life. I try to get creative preaching the gospel through the songs. One Way is a fun song that goes crazy at a live performance, but it also gives you the simple gospel message of giving your life to Christ. Shoutout to Marty hopping on the pre-hook.
“Yeshua” was a fun one. I wrote it after I spent time worshipping in the studio singing the worship song called “Yeshua”. Moments later I was writing the chorus that simply says “I Follow Yeshua.” It’s a song about being committed to Christ no matter what. Shoutout to Kieran the Light with the feature.
“Choice” is a vibe, but also a challenge to the listener. At the end of the day, it’s all about making a choice to walk with God or not. Are you all in? That’s the challenge God gave me when writing this. Shoutout to Evan Ford for hopping on verse 2.
TZ: Do you feel God called you to use social media to minister to people?
Brenno: Absolutely. Social media is a place filled with darkness and evil. What an opportunity we have as believers to come on this platform and shine our light in the darkness! The darker this world gets, the brighter we can shine. I have seen the fruit of that through posting on social media. With anything there’s balance, but I’ve seen God use social media on my behalf as a powerful tool to reach people with my music. Whether it’s going on IG live and praying for people, doing bible studies, or simply posting a song about the Lord, I’ve seen God continue to use it as a way to reach people.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Brenno: A lot more music! There are a couple of projects I’m working on that I’m excited to finish and release in 2025. There are also some fun collaborations in the works. I’m looking forward to building with my team even more. I truly feel like it’s only the beginning. God has put me on a crazy ride. I can’t wait to see what He does in this new year.
Four songs that Brenno recommends to listeners – Groovy Freestyle, Your Presence, One Way and God Got My Back
Social Media: Instagram & TikTok : @brenno.music
CJ EMULOUS
CJ Emulous is an internationally known Christian rap artist, speaker & evangelist. He is also a member of the GLO Collective along with Miles Minnick. He has been serving in ministry faithfully; sharing Jesus through his music, message, and lifestyle! He is a former Youth & Young Adult pastor and Ministry Director with Youth For Christ in Sacramento, CA. CJ has a powerful testimony of meeting Jesus in prison and getting miraculously released! He makes anthems that compel this generation to live an unashamed life and makes music that shows the world there is a way out of their sin and His name is Jesus!
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
CJ Emulous: I knew when opportunities kept coming without me pursuing them. God was making it evident that he was opening doors in the direction of CHH to the point where I had to make a decision to leave college basketball to go into music ministry full time.
TZ: What is the meaning behind the project “Get To It”?
CJ Emulous: Get to it is just an incitement to the listener that God has given you a gift and a call and it is irrevocable. Which means he’s not going to ever change his mind about it. A lot of people think they’re just going to wake up different and feel motivated to do what God has already asked them to do. This EP is just a statement for the listener to be obedient to the call that’s on their life.
TZ: How did it feel to be on platforms like On The Radar and Sway In The Morning?
CJ Emulous: On the radar and Sway was dope opportunity that I know was a gift from God. We have many more dope opportunities coming in 2025 to use our gifts and stories to glorify God. I’m looking forward to being back on both of those platforms soon!
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
CJ Emulous: In 2025 you can expect me to go even crazier than I’ve ever gone! 2024 was my step out year where I was just seeing what God was going to do with this music ministry he gave me. Going into 2025 I’m convinced of what he wants to do, so I’m going crazier than ever. Collabs, songs, album, clothing, line, events, etc.
Four songs that CJ Emulous recommends to listeners – Won’t I, Got it on me, Find Out and Side Note
Social Media: X (fka Twitter) & Instagram – @cjemulous
Tik Tok- @cjemulousmusic 
CYFE II
Cyfë II is a Christian hip-hop artist whose music tells the powerful story of a saved sinner transformed through Jesus. With a unique and eclectic style, Cyfë II creates anthems of hope, uplifting those who hear his message of redemption and faith. His music serves as a testament to the transformative power of Christ, offering both a soundtrack for God’s army and a path to heaven. As an artist reborn, Cyfë II uses his journey as a source of inspiration, crafting tracks that resonate deeply with listeners seeking spiritual growth and empowerment. Through his authentic, faith-driven sound, Cyfë II is on a mission to share the love of Christ and bring light to the world.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Cyfe II: To be honest, I don’t know that God ever called me to do music. I know God gave me a gift of communication and I’ve just chosen to use that through music right now. At the end of the day we should be spreading Gods word and that’s what’s most important.
TZ: What is the concept behind the “GOD : CHILD” album?
Cyfe II: Essentially it’s a story about an encounter with this angelic like child from Heaven and the reveal of who this child is. The music tells a story sonically from the beginning to end describing my journey with God from questioning if He is the true God to eventually, through guidance of this child, realizing He is true and I am his child. (SPOILER) The child is discovered at the end to be me. God showed me who I am to Him in His kingdom.
TZ: What do you mean when you say you found the next J. Cole, but he’s Christian?
Cyfe II: J. Cole is one of my biggest influences. I believe the best artists don’t shy away from the artists that influenced them. They find ways to take that influence and make it their own while still acknowledging that influence in their music. My goal when I first got into CHH was to be the Christian version of J. Cole or Kendrick Lamar. Not in terms of a copycat artistically, but impact. And it still is, those rappers are the greatest of all time in my opinion, skill wise. We need that skill for the kingdom.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Cyfe II: Me and 3 of my favorite artists in the community are starting a Christian music collective called REFVGE. Me, Josh Lecroy, Bianca Silver & WAY?. Our goal is to create a sound that hasn’t been heard before in the space blending hip hop, pop and alternative soul. We will be rolling out in the first half of next year with consistent music. I also plan on dropping a Directors Cut of “GOD : CHILD” with extra songs within the story. Some pretty big features will be on that as well!
Four songs that Cyfe II recommends to listeners – Blind:Faith, The:Internal, James:Joy and Forever:Home
Social Media: Instagram – @cyfe.ii
JEREMIAH BLIGEN
TZ: When did you know God Called you to do music?
Jeremiah Bligen: I believe that if God places a gift inside of you and you are called to use it. The what for, how and when you use it may change with seasons, but ultimately, if you have a gift, God gave it – and what he places in our hands he expects a return from. That being said, there was a time after I first began to walk with the Lord around the age of 16 when I wasn’t sure if my gift of rap was compatible, because of the examples of rap that were popular and how I previously used it. I stopped for a few months to evaluate and was willing to let it go completely if necessary. Thankfully, there were pastors and church members that told me that there was nothing wrong with my gift. In fact, God gave it and I should use it. They encouraged me and gave me opportunities to express myself. From that moment I found the music of other christian rappers nationwide and built with others in the city – never turned back.
TZ: What is meaning behind the album “The Flames Will Not Consume You”?
Jeremiah Bligen: Adopting its title directly from Isaiah 43:2, “The Flames Will Not Consume You” is inspired by its namesake, along with the first 3 chapters of the book of Daniel. The album expresses hope, faith, doubt, pain and praise over full scale production that incorporates hues from across the musical spectrum. “This album is a representation of the last 7 years of my “good fight”- listeners will find authenitic spiritual and musical expression, but I hope they leave with affirmation and editification; encouraged to endure until the end, trusting that the Lord is with us and by his mercy we are not consumed. ”
TZ: What is your idea for Flight 40?
Jeremiah Bligen: Practically, Flight 40 is the entity under which I create for myself and with others through music production, graphic design, and other creative-based services (artist development, project management, etc.). It takes its name and spiritual inspiraton from Isaiah 40 – “They that wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles…”. The entire chapter is rich with everything from prophecy regarding the Lord’s coming, praise centered on the greatness of God, affirmation of the endurance of the word, and encouragement for the saints. Ultimately, when my work is done in music, I hope that the same will be said regarding what Flight 40 produced directly and contributed to.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Jeremiah Bligen: Lord willing we will keep promoting “The Flames Will Not Consume You” and host a few events to present it live to the people. I am also always working on new music so stay tuned for more releases!
Four songs that Jeremiah Bligen recommendS to listeners – Fighting Stance, Throne, Sunset and Remains
Social Media: Instagram, X (fka Twitter) & TikTok – @jeremiahbligen
X & Instagram – @flightforty 
KNALADEUS
Knaladeus, hailing from Harrisburg, PA, and now calling Orlando, FL his home, is a Christian rapper who brings a unique blend of soulful and introspective music. Introduced to the world of music by his father, he grew up surrounded by a diverse range of genres, including soul, funk, jazz, salsa, and hip-hop. This eclectic mix of influences shapes his sound and lyrical style, which is deeply rooted in both his musical background and his spiritual journey. With every track, Knaladeus strives to create music that resonates on a personal level, reflecting his faith while staying true to his diverse musical upbringing. His genuine and thought-provoking lyrics are a testament to his mission of using music as a platform to inspire and uplift others.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Knaladeus: I knew I wanted to rap/write around 14, but I knew God placed a call to do it over my life around 16. I remember also reading a verse I wrote to my older brother, and he finally said I was dope (lol), which was a big deal to me as well.
TZ: What was the meaning behind the “Shadowboxing In The Dark” EP?
Knaladeus: Shadowboxing In The Dark was actually an ep title I came up with a year prior, and held on to. I started working with Parry Illest on his projects engineering and featuring. We developed a relationship and started building. After I dropped my album “I Was There” he rocked with it heavy, and wanted to work with me. He started sending beats and little by little concepts started coming quickly and I remembered that title I had and the rest was history.
TZ: Who is in the Fill GX-D collective, and what is the mission for Fill GX-D?
Knaladeus: So FILL GX-D (Feel Good) was birthed from a project I dropped by the same name in 2017. It featured production from Daniel Steele (DSTL), Devin Morrison, Soy Is REAL, and myself. I remember thinking the concept was dope and it had the potential to be more than a project title. At the time my brother Christopher ” Crescendo ” Mercado knew about the idea I had to make it a collective, and alongside him, and Andrae Gallardo (Graphic Designer for most of my work, and an amazing Emcee/producer) we started FILL GX-D as a collective in 2018. Initially, we started with us 3 my bro Soy Is REAL, and Rich Colon. Now currently our roster is myself, Andrae (surname Israel), Soy Is REAL, Javy XI, J Solo and A Luis (Crescendo has since passed on). 🙏🕊 Our mission, has always been to make feel good music that gives God glory. The feel of the music is important to us. In order to feel good, you need to be filled with God.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Knaladeus: I plan on dropping an album at the top of 2025 (details to coming soon…). Which I believe will be one of my most refreshing works to date. I consider it a love letter to the church and the culture of church I grew up with.
Four Songs Knaladeus recommends to listeners – Anxious, Sumner Road, Sit Here and Brim Stare
Social Media: X (fka Twitter), Instagram & TikTok – @knaladeus 
MATT MOGG
Matt Mogg is a Christian artist from Seattle, WA known for his distinctive fusion of rapping, singing, and catchy pop elements. Drawing inspiration from his love for R&B, Matt seamlessly blends fun, upbeat melodies with meaningful messages, creating a sound that resonates across various genres. His unique style captures a perfect balance between contemporary pop influences and heartfelt Christian themes. Matt’s music invites listeners into a world where faith and musical creativity intersect, offering a refreshing take on modern Christian music.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Matt Mogg: I felt God calling me to music when was in middle school. I grew up listening to artists like Lecrae and This’l and wanted to be able to tell my story of how God changed me. I started writing raps in the 6th grade and making beats in 8th grade. It took a long time before I got any good, but I always felt God calling me to the creative world.
TZ: What is the meaning behind your project “For The Sake of Letting Go”?
Matt Mogg: This project represents letting go of the things in your past that are holding you back. On this album I’m trying to tell a darker story with the intent of leaving behind the things holding me back from my relationship with God. The album finishes in a much happier and healthier place than it starts. It’s about my fight with depression in my teenage years and early 20’s. I hope it can resonate with people in similar situations.
TZ: What was it like working with Peabod on the “Ten Feet” single?
Matt Mogg: Working with Peabod has been incredible! I met him at the end of 2023 when my buddies Gio and Henrik opened for him and he’s been one of the most genuine people I’ve met through music. He’s given me a lot of guidance and advice, and I really see him as a mentor. Making “Ten Feet” was such a blast, and I’m excited for you to hear what else we’re working on.
TZ: What Can We expect from you in 2025?
Matt Mogg: In 2025, I’ll be releasing a lot more singles. I’ve been super inspired musically by the early 2000’s sound as well as artists like Dominic Fike, LANY, Jeremy Zucker, and Valley. I want to be able to make songs inspired by them, with my own twist that are honoring to God. My roommate and I have been collaborating on a lot of new styles and I’m really pumped to release new music.
Four songs that Matt Mogg recommends to listeners – All My Life, If We Fall Then We Fall, THINK I FOUND IT and Mood Swings ft. Futuristic
Social Media: TikTok, Instagram, & X (fka Twitter) – @itsmattmogg
MEEZO!
MEEZO! is a passionate Christian rapper from Texas, blending her love for Jesus with her talent for music and fashion. As an influencer and entrepreneur, she uses her platform to inspire others with her bold faith and stylish presentation. MEEZO! raps from a place of struggle, reflecting on the darkness she has overcome, but always pointing to the light of Christ as the ultimate answer. Her motto, “The movement of God,” drives everything she does, whether through her music, her entrepreneurial ventures, or her social media presence. With every verse, she shares her testimony of redemption and faith, encouraging others to find hope in Jesus, no matter where they are.
TZ: When did u know God called you to do music?
Meezo!: Back in 2022 so many of my peers kept telling me that I should take my poetry and turn it into rap. I thought they were crazy until God kept telling me to start it and try it so I started recording music using BandLab with my Apple headphones. Ever since then I’ve been elevating in this music scene. I never wanted to be a rapper, but God showed me that this is my calling for His kingdom.
TZ: How do you approach writing music that feels so real and relatable?
Meezo!: I’ve been through a lot starting from childhood up to my adult life. When I record music I always go by my mood for that day and then I get a beat that matches how I’m feeling. After that I pray and ask God to lead me through the song and place whatever needs to be said on my heart and I relate my story with someone else’s to make them feel what I’m saying.
TZ: What is the meaning behind the “5 Star the tape” EP?
Meezo!: The meaning behind “5 Star the tape” is really me expressing myself in every song. The number 5 is my favorite number, so that plays a part in it too. Then “5 Star” means highest value and best quality. I’ve always felt like I’m highest value due to me serving a highest of ALL value God.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Meezo!: Most definitely an album, music videos and more ministry. Not only with music, but with fashion, & preaching.
Four songs that MEEZO! recommends to listeners – Expose Spirits, MAD! Enough, Bar for Bar freestyle and HOLYgirls UP!
Social Media – TikTok, Instagram & Threads – @darealmeezo
PHATHOM
Phathom is a Korean American recording artist and producer whose journey through music is deeply influenced by his Christian faith. With an eclectic production style, Phathom takes listeners on musical journeys that blend hip-hop, R&B, and pop, while consistently reflecting his Christian values. Inspired by his faith and icons like Ryan Leslie, Will.I.Am, and Pharrell, he creates music that uplifts and inspires, aiming to share messages of hope, redemption and purpose. Phathom’s sound is a testament to his ability to adapt across genres while staying true to his belief in Christ, allowing him to contribute his talents to a variety of musical landscapes.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Phathom: I’ve always had a connection to music in some way. When I was a child, I used to write songs and as I grew older I spent many years pursuing music in the secular world. While I’ve always been a believer and my faith was never in question, I allowed a bit of success and pride to cloud my priorities. I’d go to church on Sundays almost like I was “clocking in,” but by midweek I was back in the clubs performing and living a completely different lifestyle.
In 2017, everything changed for me. I came across a video from Rod Pickens that completely shook me. In the video, he shared a near-death experience where he stood in line for judgment. God told a woman ahead of him that one of her social media posts had led 200,000 people away from Him. She wasn’t judged for posting it but for the ripple effect of her actions. Then came the chilling words no believer wants to hear: “Depart from me; I never knew you.”
That moment hit me hard. I realized that everything I do—my business, friendships, conversations, and especially my music—needed to be for God. There was no more part-time faith or playing a role a few days a week. It was time to commit fully.
I had stepped away from music several times before, but this time, I knew that if I returned, it had to be 100% for God. That’s when I discovered Christian Hip Hop (CHH). Honestly, I went in with some skepticism, thinking it might be corny or lacking substance, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. I found an incredible community of talented MCs, many of whom have become some of my closest friends. From that moment on, I knew this was where God wanted me to be.
TZ: What is the message behind the song “WarGames”?
Phathom: The message behind “WarGames” aligns with the overall vision of the upcoming “What If” project. The project explores this question: What if you paired the best mainstream MCs with the best MCs in Christian Hip Hop (CHH)? Mark 16:15 calls us to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” With this project and song, I had two main goals:
Reach nonbelievers through Hip Hop. I wanted to present the gospel in a way that resonates with listeners who might not typically engage with Christian music. For some, this song could become the only worship track they ever listen to. It’s the first time they hear about Jesus in a way that they’re open to, or the moment they find themselves singing along to a “worship record” with a Hip Hop vibe. By delivering the message in a form they can relate to, it creates opportunities for nonbelievers to encounter the gospel. Many of them may then explore CHH further, diving into the catalogs of talented artists and hearing more ministry-driven music—songs like Hallelujah All Day. This fulfills our calling to bring the gospel to the ends of the earth. Showcasing the talent in CHH.
“WarGames” also serves as a platform to demonstrate that CHH has some of the best lyricists in the game. It’s proof that you can be a follower of Jesus Christ and still create music that’s authentic, creative, and impactful—sometimes even surpassing what’s coming from the mainstream. Through “WarGames” I aim to bridge the gap, share the gospel, and highlight the excellence within CHH.
TZ: How do you put the right collaboration together with mainstream and Christian artists?
Phathom: I have a unique approach to creating songs in general, but when it comes to collaborations between mainstream and Christian artists the process becomes even more intentional. Normally, I focus on combining unique sounds and pairing artists who wouldn’t typically work together. I’m not a fan of repetitive collaborations where the same artists make the same type of record over and over—it can feel like listening to the same song on repeat. So my process always starts with curating the lineup.
Here’s how it works:
Building the Wishlist – I start by writing down a list of artists I haven’t worked with yet. This includes both MCs and singers.
Seeking Fresh Pairings – Next, I look for combinations of artists who haven’t worked together before. I also consider a potential “bucket list” of collaborations for some of the artists on my list.
Creating Lineups – I organize makeshift lineups with starters, backups, and even backups to the backups, ensuring I have flexibility as the project evolves.
When working with secular artists, the process shares some similarities, but also introduces unique challenges. Almost every mainstream artist I’ve collaborated with is someone I have a personal relationship with. Many are artists I’ve known for a long time—either from my earlier days in music or through crossed paths that didn’t result in a project at the time.
Here’s how the process differs for mainstream artists:
Faith Alignment – While I always start with a list of who I’d like to work with, I pay close attention to the artists’ beliefs. Some names get crossed off due to conflicting religious views or vocal opposition to faith. Unfortunately, this means some dream collaborations aren’t possible, but staying true to the message is non-negotiable.
Finding the Counterpart – Once I narrow down the list, I identify each mainstream artist’s Christian counterpart—their “multiverse variant,” so to speak.
Catalog and Fit – I then do a deep dive into both artists’ catalogs to ensure they complement each other sonically and skillfully. The goal is to strike a balance where neither side feels overpowered, and the collaboration feels seamless.
After finalizing the pairings, we start creating the beats and shaping the songs, ensuring every track aligns with the vision for the project.
TZ: What Can We expect from you in 2025?
Phathom: I like to think of myself as an overachiever—someone who’s always creating and can’t sit still for long. I already have projects lined up for 2025, 2026, and even 2027. One of my biggest frustrations in music is waiting—whether it’s waiting months for verses to come back or for projects to finalize. So, while I was waiting to wrap up the “What If” project, I started working on the next one: “Storytime”.
“Storytime” is my take on Nas’ “King’s Disease”, with a focus on the art of storytelling. Without giving too much away, the vibe is rooted in telling stories, and the creative direction is something I haven’t seen done before. I’m excited to bring this fresh approach to listeners in 2025. After “Storytime”, I’ll venture into a space people might not expect from me. The next project will be a two-part release with a side A and a side B. Sonically, it’s like Derek Minor’s “Highlight Tapes”, mixed with elements from my earlier work, such as “Doing It Up” and “Fly Away”. This project is some of my best work and I can’t wait to share it with the world. Beyond that, I have a full slate of projects in the works, complete with tentative release dates, themes, and topics. We’re just scratching the surface
Four songs that Phathom recommends to listeners – War Games, Look At me Now, Fly Away and In The Night
Social Media: Instagram, X (fka Twitter), TikToK – @iamphathom
TEIONA GUNN
Teiona Gunn is a talented Christian rapper and singer whose high-energy live performances have made her a standout on the music scene. With a diverse musical range that spans from Hip-Hop, R&B to Jersey house music, Teiona blends genres to create an infectious sound that brings praise to God while engaging listeners in an unforgettable experience. Her charismatic stage presence are matched only by her dedication to using music to spread a message of hope, joy, and faith. Whether through hard-hitting rap verses or soulful melodies, Teiona Gunn is committed to inspiring others and sharing the love of Christ through her art.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Teiona Gunn: I actually grew up in a musical family. I started out dancing. I never knew that I would take rapping seriously. I knew that music was was what I was supposed to be doing since I was young, but it wasn’t until my middle to late teens that I knew that God was calling me to use that for his glory. He would speak to me by reminding me of my upbringing being raised in church, and also through dreams. After one dream that was incredibly clear, I knew that I couldn’t run anymore and I surrendered my music to Christ.
TZ: What is the meaning behind the album “Along The Way”?
Teiona Gunn: The meaning behind my album “Along The Way” is really just about embracing the journey. When I started writing the album I didn’t know which direction I was headed in. It wasn’t until I kept going that I realized that I was writing this album for little Teiona, and giving her a voice to speak. This album really focuses on keeping your eyes on Jesus, and him being the prize through it all. If you do the God thing you’ll get the good thing along the way.
TZ: How do you come up with your live performance/stage show?
Teiona Gunn: I take my live shows very seriously. Performing is one of my favorite arts, and a great way to minister. I usually like to take into account who is there, what’s the purpose, and how long do I have. Prayer is always a must, and asking God to lead me.
TZ: What Can We expect from you in 2025?
Teiona Gunn: We can expect a lot in 2025. I don’t want to speak too soon, but the album just dropped, so Lord willing expect a lot of live shows and projects that are surrounding the new music, and more. The team and I are so excited to see what the Lord will do.
Four songs that Teiona Gunn recommends to listeners – How I Step , Do It Again, Best View and Party Girl
Social Media: Instagram & TikTok – @TeionaGunn
YOUNG C
Young C is an artists artist whose dynamic sound blends raw talent with emotional depth. Hailing from Riverside, CA, he’s known for his unique blend of Gospel, R&B, and Hip Hop, delivering authentic lyrics that speak to his personal journey and experiences. Passionate about his craft, Young C uses his music as a powerful form of expression, tackling themes of resilience, ambition, and self-discovery. His faith in Jesus is the power he draws from that he puts in every song! Whether performing on stage or sharing his story through his songs, Young C’s dedication to his art and his audience shines through in everything he does.
TZ: When did you know God called you to do music?
Young C: I started off my musical journey back in 2007. It started as just a hobby. I started taking the journey seriously in 2010 as a secular artist. It wasn’t until 2017 that I converted to recording music that glorified God. From the beginning I knew God wanted me to be a voice, but it wasn’t until 2016 when I had a real encounter with God about how he wanted me to use my voice.
TZ: What do you want people to walk away with after listening to your “But For Now” EP?
Young C: After listening to the “But For Now” Ep I want listeners to be encouraged. The title “But For Now” represents the wait before Heaven. The struggle and challenges that believers face during their wait. I also wanted to encourage non-believers that we all face similar situations. It’s all about how you face them. The message I was trying to send was that faith doesn’t make things easier. It makes things possible.
TZ: What was the idea behind the song “Go To God”?
Young C: “Go To God” was really a verse created to encourage myself in a hard season I was facing. I never had intentions on creating that to be a full song. I posted the verse online and it resonated with people so well that a full song had to come from it. It’s a reminder to go to God with all your burdens, worries and cares. It’s something we all need to be reminded of sometimes.
TZ: What can we expect from you in 2025?
Young C: 2025 I plan to release a lot more music, but also time out on the road kicking off my first headlining tour. I’m really looking forward to seeing God move!
Four songs that Young C recommends to listeners – Child Of God, Go To God, Someday and Soul Ties
Social Media Accounts- Instagram, TikTok & X (fka Twitter) – @Youngctho
