In a landscape traditionally ruled by men, women are reshaping the sound, the feel and the look of the current worship scene. Following in the footsteps of revered female worship leaders like CeCe Winans, Brooke Ligertwood and Kari Jobe, a new generation of women are rising up to carry their sacred mantle of worship. Representing their listeners in various stages of life as daughters, sisters, friends, single women, wives and mothers, these strong newcomers are articulating their relationship with God in new ways, exploring unique sonic palettes and joining forces with unexpected collaborators. From empowered females spearheading some of worship music’s biggest collectives to singular voices charting their own path, here are eight women changing the face of modern worship.
Abbie Gamboa
UPPERROOM’s Abbie Gamboa has become one of the most buzzworthy new female artists in recent memory. Void of artifice and any pomp and circumstance, Gamboa’s music finds its connection point in its purity. Her peaceful songs emote a rare earnestness that’s as sweet as her voice. The Texas native released her aptly titled solo debut, “pure,” in 2023; but she’s best known for her stunning collaborations with everyone from Elevation Rhythm and Maverick City Music to Gateway Worship and Aodhán King, with whom she just released the 10-track “Throwing Paint,” an album written and recorded in only six days.
Tiffany Hudson
As a songwriter and lead vocalist, Tiffany Hudson has become synonymous with Elevation Worship. A longtime member of the award-winning group, the soft-spoken Hudson is widely recognized for helming offerings such as “More Than Able,” “Been So Good” and “New Thing Coming,” among many others. She’s also written and recorded songs with sister collective Elevation Rhythm. The respected songstress struck out on her own on 2023’s “Hidden Here,” an intimate portrait of songs written for personal reflection. She’s since released a few additional solo singles, including 2024’s powerful “The Wonderful Blood.”
Melodie Malone
Melodie Malone grew up in Franklin, Tennessee, but the budding singer-songwriter moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2009 to be a part of the then new Passion City Church, after having a life-changing experience at Passion Conference as a college student. Today, she leads worship at the annual gathering as well as at Passion City Church, where she is also actively involved in The Grove, the large congregation’s impactful women’s ministry. As a seasoned member of Passion Worship, the newly married Malone has had the opportunity to travel around the world stewarding familiar songs like “I’ve Witnessed It,” “Holy Ground” and “It Is Finished.”
Hope Darst
A pastor’s kid, Hope Darst has spent a lifetime serving the local church. After decades of leading worship and providing background vocals for other artists, Darst’s long-held dreams of artistry finally came to fruition in her late 30s when she signed a record deal and unveiled her breakout single, “Peace Be Still,” a balm for anxiety released during the pandemic. The Kentucky native regularly collaborates with her home church, The Belonging Co. Most recently, she released her first live worship record, which features the powerful original anthem, “Mighty Name of Jesus.”
Charity Gayle
Charity Gayle is best known for “I Speak Jesus.” While she didn’t write the moving song, her recording brought the powerful anthem to a global audience. Growing up in upstate New York, Gayle’s fascination with music first began as she watched her mom — a choir director — orchestrate four-part harmony. Eventually, Gayle began writing original compositions and honed her craft in Nashville via People & Songs, a creative community founded by “Revelation Song” writer Jennie Lee Riddle. From “Thank You Jesus For The Blood” to “Endless Praise,” Gayle is quickly becoming one of worship music’s most respected leaders. She and her husband, fellow singer-songwriter Ryan Kennedy, currently reside in Texas, where they lead a 24-hour prayer and worship movement.
Chelsea Plank
An integral member of SEU Worship since she was a student at Southeastern University, alumni Chelsea Plank has helped craft and steward many of the collective’s most popular selections, such as “What A God,” “Monday Morning Faith” and “Slower I Go.” After graduation, the Long Island native joined the staff at her alma mater in 2012. Since then, she’s been a part of countless co-writing sessions, multiple Winter Jam tours and numerous album releases, including the Florida-based group’s latest LP, “A Forgiving God.”
Sarai Rivera
Rising songstress Sarai Rivera is bringing her bilingual pop to the worship space, bridging the gap between English and Spanish. The daughter of Mexican-American ministry leaders, Rivera grew up singing in church and writing songs in her bedroom. Now, her diary entries are bold, confessional hits that span genres and cross cultures. Her music has swiftly garnered attention from fans and fellow artists alike leading the Dove Award nominee to collaborate with a diverse roster of talent that includes Danny Gokey, Miel San Marcos, Marcos Witt and Tauren Wells.
Zahriya Zachary
Zahriya Zachary’s lifelong love affair with music began at just six years old when she learned to play the piano. As a freshman in college, she started leading worship at her church and discovered her divine calling. The Texas native is known for songs such as “If The Lord,” “Back To Life” and “Surrounded By Holy.” Moreover, the emerging songstress has been featured on Patrick Mayberry’s first No. 1, “Lead On Good Shepherd,” as well as on recordings with Brian Johnson, Rave Jesus and more. She recently released her 13-track solo debut, “Rediscovery.”
