Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and CeCe Winans Lead 2026 BET Awards Gospel Nominees

Christian and gospel artists have secured a strong presence at the 2026 BET Awards, as some of the biggest names in faith based music earned major nominations ahead of one of entertainment’s most anticipated nights. The latest nominations once again highlight the growing influence of gospel and inspirational music on mainstream award platforms, with celebrated artists continuing to push the genre to wider audiences around the world.

Leading the spotlight in the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel Inspirational Award category are gospel heavyweights Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, CeCe Winans, BeBe Winans, Lecrae, Darrel Walls, and Kim Burrell. Their nominations reflect another remarkable year for gospel music as the genre continues to connect deeply with listeners through messages of faith, hope, worship, and perseverance.

One of the standout moments from the nomination list came through Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s hit single “Already Good (Tasha Slide).” The uplifting anthem secured two major nominations, earning recognition in both the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel Inspirational Award category and the BET Her Award category. The song has continued to resonate strongly with fans through its energetic praise centered message and powerful celebration of God’s goodness.

Meanwhile, rising Christian hip hop artist Miles Minnick added another milestone to his fast growing career after receiving a nomination for Best New Artist. The recognition marks a significant breakthrough moment for Minnick, whose unique blend of faith, hip hop, and contemporary culture has helped him connect with younger audiences across the gospel and mainstream music scenes.

The gospel category itself features an impressive lineup of songs that shaped conversations in Christian and inspirational music over the past year. Kirk Franklin received nominations for both “Able” and “Do It Again,” continuing his long standing legacy as one of gospel music’s most influential voices. Darrel Walls also earned recognition for “Able (Remix)” alongside PJ Morton and Kim Burrell, while BeBe Winans secured a nomination for “All to Thee.”

CeCe Winans also earned a nomination for her worship driven song “At the Cross,” further cementing her place as one of gospel music’s most respected and enduring voices. Tasha Cobbs Leonard appeared again in the category through her collaboration with John Legend on “Church,” while Lecrae received recognition for “Headphones,” his collaboration with Killer Mike and T.I., showing the growing intersection between gospel themes and mainstream hip hop culture.

Excitement continues to build ahead of the 2026 BET Awards ceremony, especially as official voting for the Viewers’ Choice Award is now open to fans worldwide. Organizers have already promised another memorable night filled with live performances, cultural moments, and celebrations of excellence across music, entertainment, sports, and film.

The 2026 BET Awards will air live on Sunday, June 28, from the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles at 8 PM ET PT on BET. The ceremony will also simulcast across several networks including BET HER, MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, CMT, and TV Land, giving audiences multiple ways to tune into the event.

This year’s nominations once again show how gospel music continues to expand beyond church walls and reach wider audiences globally. Through worship anthems, inspirational storytelling, and genre blending collaborations, Christian artists are continuing to shape mainstream culture while staying rooted in messages of faith and hope.

For many gospel fans, the nominations represent more than awards recognition. They reflect how faith centered music continues to thrive, inspire, and maintain a powerful voice within the global entertainment industry.