CeCe Winans’ “The Hymns” Earns Praise from Fans and Critics Alike

CeCe Winans‘ latest album, The Hymns, is proving that timeless music still resonates with today’s audiences. Since its June 5 release, the collection of beloved Christian hymns has been widely praised for its simplicity, heartfelt worship, and Winans’ unmistakable vocal excellence.

Rather than reinventing familiar classics, The Hymns embraces traditional piano-led arrangements that have drawn praise from both critics and listeners seeking a more authentic worship experience. Many have applauded the album for introducing a new generation to songs such as “Amazing Grace,” “How Great Thou Art,” and “It Is Well,” while longtime fans have described it as a refreshing return to the foundations of the Christian faith.

The overwhelmingly positive response has also translated into commercial success. The Hymns debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart, becoming the 12th chart-topping gospel album of Winans‘ career and further cementing her legacy as one of gospel music’s most influential artists.

Express Worship 2026 Coming to Brampton on Canada Day

F.O.R.C.E. — Flavours of Real Christian Expression — is bringing together four highly respected gospel artists for an uplifting Canada Day celebration. Express Worship 2026 takes place on Wednesday, July 1 at 4:30 PM at the New Life Covenant Centre, 7050 Bramalea Road, Brampton, Ontario.

The event features performances by Rondell Positive, Prince Saj, Johnmark Wiiggan, and Jason Walker. Refreshments will be available on sale throughout the evening.

Admission is $50 at the door or $40 prepaid. For tickets and more information, visit Eventbrite.

Yolanda Adams to Headline Philadelphia’s Celebration of Freedom Ceremony on July 4th

Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Yolanda Adams will take center stage at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony on the morning of Independence Day, July 4, 2026. The free event begins at 10:00 AM outside the historic Independence Hall at 599 Market Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The ceremony, which is part of the 16-day Wawa Welcome America Festival, marks America’s 250th anniversary and will feature musical performances by Adams alongside high-energy sets from DJ Diamond Kuts. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and a roster of guest speakers are also slated to appear. The morning will also include an awards presentation honoring individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in the city.

The Celebration of Freedom Ceremony is free and open to the public. Attendees should note that Market Street between 5th and 6th Streets will be closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For more information and a full festival schedule, visit july4thphilly.com.

Roots Picnic Makes Historic London Debut at Crystal Palace Bowl

The Roots Picnic is crossing the Atlantic for its first-ever London edition, set to take place at Crystal Palace Bowl on Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9, 2026.

The two-day event opens on Saturday with a special two-hour joint performance from Nas & The Roots, one of the most anticipated collaborations of the festival calendar. Also on the Saturday bill is Sasha Keable, alongside a headline Super Set featuring J.Period’s Live Mixtape with Black Thought, Yasiin Bey, and Benny the Butcher, plus a set from Nia Smith.

Sunday brings a soulful close to the weekend, with performances from Anthony Hamilton and Musiq Soulchild, as well as a rare hometown return from Floetry — their first London performance in over a decade. The evening culminates in a Sunday Jam with Robert Glasper & Questlove, joined by special guests Common and Bilal.

Gotts Street Park with Olive Jones also features across the weekend, with sounds by Benji B on both days.

Presented by Live Nation Urban, tickets and further information are available at palacebowlpresents.co.uk.

Common Returns Home for Taste of Chicago Performance

Hip-hop artist Common is set to perform at the 2026 Taste of Chicago, one of the nation’s largest and longest-running food festivals. The Chicago native will take the stage at Grant Park on Saturday, July 11, as part of the festival’s free five-day entertainment lineup.

Returning to its traditional mid-July dates for the first time in several years, the Taste of Chicago will run from July 8-12, following the cancellation of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. Alongside its renowned culinary offerings, the festival continues its tradition of pairing world-class food with outstanding live music.

Babyface Brings R&B Royalty to Detroit’s Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre

R&B legend Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds is set to light up the Detroit waterfront this summer, with a highly anticipated concert at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre on Sunday, July 12, 2026. The show is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM.

A 12-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer, Babyface is celebrated for timeless hits and his prolific work with artists including Boyz II Men, TLC, and Madonna. He has written and produced over 125 Top-10 hits across his distinguished career.

Joining Babyface on the show is Jane Eugene, billed as “The First Lady of Loose Ends” — a nod to her celebrated tenure with the iconic British R&B group.

The concert is presented in partnership with Mix 92.3, Detroit’s R&B station. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, and the event will proceed rain or shine. Fans can visit thearetha.com for more information.

The Love Hangover Experience

Fans of classic R&B and soul are in for an unforgettable evening as The Love Hangover Experience returns on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Remington Park Festival Grounds in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Widely recognized for its nostalgic, grown-and-sexy atmosphere, the premier R&B and blues music festival will feature powerhouse performances from legendary headliners Dru Hill and Kelly Price. Joining them as special guests are 702, Calvin Richardson, Pokey Bear, and Pleasure P, while comedian and media personality Bubba Dub will serve as host for the evening.

The event begins at 5:00 p.m., with gates opening at 4:00 p.m. Festivalgoers can choose from multiple ticket options, including General Admission, VIP, and Exclusive VIP packages. Exclusive VIP guests will enjoy premium amenities such as a dedicated entrance, access to the VIP Tent, reserved seating directly in front of the stage, and all-inclusive food and beverages.

Tickets are available now TicketStorm.com.