24 songs, different expressions, one purpose: FOR HIS GLORY!
The full list is finally here! All 24 songs nominated for the 2026 StepFWD Awards Song of the Year have now been revealed, and what a selection it is.
‘For His Glory’ is more than just this year’s StepFWD Awards theme. It is the reason behind everything we do. The gifts God has given us, the music we create and even the awards and recognition that come afterwards should all point back to Him.
Looking through this year’s shortlist, you can see just how many different sounds and styles are represented. From worship to rap, R&B, Afro-gospel and contemporary Gospel, each song has its own expression, yet they all share a common purpose.
One interesting part of this year’s selection is how listeners have also played a role, even without necessarily knowing it.
For the first time, songs that reached No. 1 on the Official UK Christian & Gospel Singles Chart were considered as part of the selection process, provided they were released within the eligibility period of 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2026. This was alongside the UK Christian Charts approach used in previous years.
In total, over 1,500 songs were considered before the final 24 were selected.
Every stream, download or purchase that helped an eligible song reach No. 1 contributed to its chart success. So, in a way, listeners have also had a hand in shaping this year’s Song of the Year shortlist.
Being nominated for the StepFWD Awards Song of the Year is no small achievement. This year is particularly special because, unlike previous years when Song of the Year awards were presented across 12 different genres, there is now just ONE Song of the Year title, with all 24 songs in contention.
The 24 Song of the Year Nominees:
1. Ancient of Days – CalledOut Music
2. ‘Til The Whole World Knows – Philippa Hanna & Israel Houghton
3. Kumbaya – JERUB
4. Finished Business – IMRHAN & Leostaytrill
5. There’s This King That I Know – Chantelle Rutendo
6. Give Me Joy – Elle Limebear
7. Holy Water – Obed
8. Valley – Thiago & DC3
9. I Can Sing of Your Love Forever – House of Worship, Martin Smith & George Boudouris
10. Cole Palmer – Limoblaze & DC3
11. Guide Me II – CNNCT SOUNDS, DuBetter & Chantelle Rutendo
12. Keep It Sweet – YourBoyWonder
13. Do It All Alone – Rend Collective
14. Psalm 51 – Chantelle Rutendo
15. Beauty Exchange – Folabi Nuel
16. Rest My Head – GUNVA B
17. I Only Want What God Can Give – Sondae
18. THIS GOD – MIN.ADEOLUWA
19. Hallelujah – Deca OTA & Hunnid2Hebron
20. What Can Man Do – IMRHAN
21. I Believe (Live) – KXC
22. Do It With Jesus – Y Shadey
23. SOG – Ms Debola ft. MIN.ADEOLUWA
24. Joy – MARIZU
One name that stands out on this year’s shortlist is Chantelle Rutendo, who has the highest number of appearances, featuring on three of the 24 nominated songs. Her songs ‘There’s This King That I Know’ and ‘Psalm 51’ are both nominated, alongside ‘Guide Me II’, on which she joins CNNCT SOUNDS and DuBetter.
Of course, there can only be one eventual winner, but every song on this list has already achieved something worth celebrating. These songs have reached people, ministered to hearts, encouraged faith and, in many cases, travelled far beyond what the artists themselves might have imagined.
For some listeners, a particular song may have been a source of strength during a difficult season. For others, it may simply be that song they cannot stop playing. Whatever the connection, the impact of music goes well beyond trophies and titles.
And when you consider the purpose behind it all, we are reminded once again why we do what we do.
FOR HIS GLORY!
Congratulations to all 24 nominees and everyone who contributed to bringing these songs to life.
Voting Is Now Open!
It’s your turn to have your say! Which songs have blessed you, encouraged your faith or been on repeat?
Voting for the 2026 StepFWD Awards Song of the Year is officially open. Choose your TOP THREE songs from the 24 nominees and make your vote count.
Don’t just cheer for your favourites. Vote now and help decide which songs make it to the final three!
