Modern Sound Worship Song Contest Returns with Support from Gospel Music Association

Following a successful inaugural year that culminated in the release of its first winning song, the Modern Sound Worship Song Contest is officially returning for 2026. Hosted by Modern Sound and presented by Cantinas Arts Foundation, the second annual contest also welcomes The Gospel Music Association as an official partner. Applications for the 2026 Modern Sound Worship Song Contest are now open until June 30 at modernsound.co. Additional details regarding submissions, eligibility, and deadlines will be announced through Modern Sound’s official channels.

Created to discover, encourage, and invest in emerging worship and Christian songwriters, the Modern Sound Worship Song Contest gives one winning songwriter the opportunity to have their original song professionally produced and released, alongside a music video, created single artwork and promotional support designed to help bring their music to a wider audience.

“The heart behind the Modern Sound Worship Song Contest is to discover, encourage, and pour into independent worship songwriters who are faithfully writing songs for the Church,” says Matt Hadley, founder of Modern Sound and Wander Creative. “Last year, we saw that vision come together through JL Johnson and ‘In The Middle,’ and we’re excited to open the door again in 2026 for another songwriter to take the next step with their music.”

The announcement follows the recent release of last year’s winning song, “In The Middle,” by inaugural contest winner JL Johnson. Released on May 29, the song serves as a tangible example of the contest’s mission in action: helping independent worship songwriters move from writing songs in private to sharing them with listeners around the world. Watch the official music video for “In The Middle” here.

“Being selected as the first-ever Modern Sound Worship Song Contest winner was incredibly affirming,” says Johnson. “It encouraged me as a songwriter and reminded me that a song can reach further than we sometimes expect. My hope is that ‘In The Middle’ reminds listeners that even in the darkest seasons, God is still right there with them. Even when He feels distant, He is present, He cares, and He hasn’t left them alone.”

For more information, visit https://modernsound.co.

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