Veteran Artist and Trailblazer Announces New Album “Undefeated”, Releasing March 9 After more than three decades of breaking barriers and shaping the sound of Christian music, acclaimed artist and pioneer DPB announces the release of his highly anticipated album, Undefeated, arriving March 9. From his early days singing with the Brooks Family to rapping onstage with Salt-N-Pepa, his journey has been anything but ordinary. His career expanded further as a member of the Grammy and Dove nominated group D.O.C, and sharing stages with iconic Christian artists including TobyMac and Kirk Franklin. His influence spans worship, Black Gospel, contemporary Christian music, and even a historic crossover moment-becoming one of the first Christian rappers to reach No. 1 on the country music charts. Across 35+ years of faithfully following Jesus, he has endured pain, betrayal, love, loss, and the loyalty of those who stood by him. Through every season, one truth remained constant: Jesus at the center
Additional Artist/Song Information:
Artist Name: DPB
Song Title: Back In The Day
Publishing: DPB
Publishing Affiliation: BMI
Album Title: Back In The Day
Record Label: MTS
Record Label:
MTS
Michael Stover
Radio Promotion:
National Record Promotion
Larry Weir
3236587449
larry_weir@sbcglobal.net
Additional Artist/Song Information:
Artist Name: Kelly Lausen
Song Title: Secrets Of The River
Publishing: Kelly Lausen
Publishing Affiliation: KODA
Publishing 2: Victor Newman
Publishing Affiliation 2: BMI
Album Title: Secrets Of The River
Record Label: Blue Bridge Entertainment
Born in Denmark, Kelly Lausen (male) is a musician whose life has been deeply intertwined with music from an early age. Growing up in a musical family, he was influenced by his uncle, Palle Lausen, who played rhythmic guitar in Denmark’s first official Rock ‘n Roll band, “The Restless,” which began touring in 1960. At just three years of age, Kelly began his musical education in a special kindergarten that emphasized musical development. He continued to hone his skills at a senior high school where he was one of six students selected to receive free music training from future music teachers at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus, Denmark. This intensive three-year program further deepened his passion and expertise in music. Throughout his career, Kelly has played in numerous live bands across Denmark, Ireland, and later in Tokyo, Japan. His versatility as a musician is evident in his ability to play various instruments, including the piano, guitar, drums etc. Despite pursuing a career in pharmaceuticals, he continued to perform live, work as a studio musician, and write songs for others, blending his dual passions seamlessly.
Record Label:
Blue Bridge Entertainment
3236587449
masika@aol.com
Radio Promotion:
National Record Promotion
Larry Weir
3236587449
larry_weir@sbcglobal.net
As we proudly unveil this year’s New Music Awards Special Edition, we take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary artistry, innovation, and dedication that fuel today’s music landscape. Each year, the New Music Awards serve as a vibrant celebration of recording artists, radio stations, programmers, and industry professionals whose work continues to shape the soundtrack of our lives. This issue is more than a recap of achievements—it’s a tribute to the creative spirit that drives the music community forward.
The New Music Awards have long stood as a platform where both established stars and emerging voices receive recognition for their impact. From chart‑topping hits to grassroots breakthroughs, the awards highlight the full spectrum of talent influencing today’s sound. It’s a reminder of how deeply music connects us—how a single song can inspire, comfort, energize, or unite listeners across the world.
Fans now have the opportunity to make their voices heard by casting votes at New Music Awards. We encourage you to share the excitement with friends, family, and fellow music lovers—every vote truly matters. The enthusiasm so far has been remarkable, with thousands of fans already participating. Watching this level of engagement unfold on the New Music Weekly platform reinforces just how passionate our community is about supporting the artists they love.
Lady Gaga
This year’s major‑label nominees reflect the diversity and evolution of contemporary music. Standout tracks like “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga, “Anxiety” by Doechii, and “Apt.” by Rosé and Bruno Mars showcase the bold creativity driving today’s charts. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter‘s “Manchild” and Billie Eilish‘s “Wildflower” continue to resonate with listeners, capturing the emotional depth and sonic experimentation that define this era of pop music.
The Best Male Artist category is especially dynamic this year, featuring a compelling mix of established names and rising stars. Nominees such as Alex Warren and Bad Bunny stand alongside breakout talents Benson Boone, Myles Smith, and fan‑favorite Jelly Roll. Each artist brings a distinct voice, style, and perspective, proving that male performers today are pushing creative boundaries and connecting with audiences in powerful new ways.
Our Top Female Artist nominees are equally exceptional, representing some of the most influential voices in modern music. This year’s lineup features powerhouse performers Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, and Chappell Roan, as well as the genre‑defying talents of Doechii, Lady Gaga, and Raye. Together, they embody the strength, diversity, and innovation of women in music—artists who continue to redefine what’s possible and inspire fans around the globe.
Bruno Mars
Independent artists also shine brightly in this year’s nominations, underscoring the importance of supporting emerging voices. Standouts such as Michele Betterncourt & Vampire Time of Licorice Pizza Records, Eileen Carey, John Jurney, and Lawrence Cameron McGhee demonstrate the creativity and authenticity that make the indie scene so vital. Their nominations highlight the power of storytelling, perseverance, and artistic freedom—qualities that resonate deeply with listeners and industry professionals alike.
At New Music Weekly, our mission has always been to provide the essential tools and platforms that help artists succeed. Through our online magazine, the annual New Music Awards, and the STS music tracking service, we remain committed to elevating both major‑label and independent talent. Whether it’s through exposure, analytics, or industry insight, we strive to empower musicians and support their journeys in an increasingly competitive landscape.
As voting enters its final days, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of this year’s nominees. The outcome now rests in the hands of our readers and subscribers, and with the competition incredibly close, every vote carries real weight. This is your chance to help shape the future of the New Music Awards and celebrate the artists who have made an impact on you.
Best of luck to all nominees in the 2026 New Music Awards—and thank you to the fans, stations, and industry professionals who continue to make this event such a meaningful celebration of music.
New Music Weekly has officially revealed the nominations for the 2026 New Music Awards, kicking off another year of celebrating the artists, radio programmers, and industry professionals who help shape today’s music landscape. This year’s ballot reflects the continued rise of both chart‑topping stars and fast‑growing independent voices.
Among the major‑label standouts earning top recognition are Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, and Teddy Swims—all of whom have dominated playlists, airwaves, and fan conversations throughout the past year. On the independent side, Michele Bettencourt, John Jurney, and Eileen Carey lead a diverse group of emerging and established indie artists whose momentum has been impossible to ignore.
The New Music Awards also extend beyond artists, honoring the essential contributors behind the scenes. This year’s nominations include a wide range of radio stations, program directors, music directors, and industry executives, acknowledging their ongoing commitment to breaking new music and supporting rising talent.
For the first time this cycle, fans and subscribers will play an even more active role in determining the winners. Voting is now open on the New Music Weekly website, giving music lovers the chance to directly influence the outcome of one of the industry’s most inclusive award platforms.
Meanwhile, the magazine is already in pre‑production for a special NMA Nominees Edition, which will spotlight this year’s contenders with expanded features, artist reflections, and behind‑the‑scenes insights. Nominees are encouraged to participate, and many are expected to share their excitement and achievements within this commemorative issue. Special advertising opportunities tied to the NMA nominations are now available through New Music Weekly.
Fans, artists, and industry members can explore the full list of nominees and cast their votes by visiting the NMA Ballot
Top40/CHR Song of the Year:
“Abracadabra” Lady Gaga
“Anxiety” Doechii
“Apt.” Rosé and Bruno Mars
“DtMF” Bad Bunny
“Manchild” Sabrina Carpenter
“Testimony” Cabela & Schmitt
“Wildflower” Billie Eilish
Top40/CHR Male Artist of the Year:
Alex Warren
Bad Bunny
Benson Boone
Myles Smith
Jelly Roll
Justin Bieber
Weeknd
Top40/CHR Female Artist of the Year:
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Doechii
Lady Gaga
Raye
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift
Top40/CHR Group of the Year:
Clipse, Pusha T, and Malice
Huntr/X, Ejae, Audrey, Nuna, Rei Ami
Kendrick Lamar with SZA
Rosé and Bruno Mars
New Top40/CHR Artist/Group of the Year:
Addison Rae
Katseye
Leon Thomas
Lola Young
MGK
Olivia Dean
Sombr
Top40/CHR Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Cabela & Schmitt
Huntr/x
Lola Young
PT The Gospel Spitter
Turnstile
Zara Larsson
Top40/CHR Radio Station of the Year:
KLQQ
KQID
KRYC
KSPI
Top40/CHR Program/Music Director of the Year:
Dan Mathews
Jason Kranz
Jim Koski
Joshua Godwin
Top40/CHR Record Label of the Year:
BMG
Columbia
Sony
Universal
AC Song of the Year:
“Holy Water” Marshmello & Jell Roll
“Love Me Not” Ravyn Lenae
“Manchild” Sabrina Carpenter
“Mystical Magical” Benson Boone
“Ordinary” Alex Warren
“Revolving Door” Tate McRae
“Undressed” Sombr
“Wildflower” Billie Eilish
AC Male Artist of the Year:
Benson Boone
John Jurney
Justin Bieber
Myles Smith
Sombr
AC Female Artist of the Year:
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Eileen Carey
Ravyn Lenae
Sabrina Carpenter
Sarah Reeves
AC Group of the Year:
Alex Warren w/Rose
Harper Grace w/Kelsey Hart
Jonas Brothers
OneRepublic
Maroon 5 & Lil Wayne
Marshmello & Jell Roll
Morgan Wallen w/Tate McRae
New AC Artist/Group of the Year:
Bad Suns
Blackpink
Head And The Heart
Huntr/X
Luchino
Michele Bettencourt w/Vampire Time’s
The Grimm
AC Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Cabela & Schmitt
DPB w/Ouiwey Collins
John Jurney
Lana Del Rey
Lawrence Cameron McGhee
Shinedown
AC Radio Station of the Year:
KKUL
Radio Max Music
WDNH
WNHE-1
WOCO
AC Program/Music Director of the Year:
Brigitte Reinert
Larry Kazynsnki
Michael Stanton
Ron Dale
Ron Kovacs
AC Record Label of the Year:
Atlantic
Sony
UMG
WMG
Country Song of the Year:
“A Song To Sing” Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton
“Good Times & Tan Lines” Zach Top
“I Got Better” Morgan Wallen
“Happen To Me” Russell Dickerson
“Heart Of Stone” Jelly Roll
“Nose On The Grindstone” Tyler Childers
Country Male Artist of the Year:
Blake Shelton
Jelly Roll
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Rob Georg
Russell Dickerson
Zach Top
Country Female Artist of the Year:
Dasha
Kelsea Ballerini
Lainey Wilson
Margo Price
Megan Moroney
Miranda Lambert
Country Group of the Year:
Brandon Lake w/Jelly Roll
Lauren Alaina w/Chase Matthew
Megan Moroney & Kenny Chesney
Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton
Parmalee
Rascal Flatts & Jonas Brothers
Riley Green w/Ella Langley
Scotty McCreery w/Hootie & The Blowfish
Tim McGraw w/Parker McCollum
New Country Artist/Group of the Year:
Ella Langley
Greyland James
Gigi Perez
Hudson Westbrook
Joshua Slone
Tucker Wetmore
Zach Top
Country Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
Bailey Zimmerman
Corey Kent
Ella Langley
Megan Moroney
Riley Green
Shaboozey
Zach Bryan
Zach Top
Country Radio Station of the Year of the Year:
Country Bear
Hot Country 102
KDKD
KGFY
KKUL Country
KOKX
WOCO
Country Program/Music Director of the Year:
Brian Dougherty
Jay McRae
Larry Kaszynski
Randy Gerrald
Stan Edwards
Steve Stevens
Thomas Barstow
Country Record Label of the Year:
RCA
Stoney Creek
Sony
UMG
WMG
Crossover Artist/Band of the Year:
Jelly Roll
Post Malone
The Grimm
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