As their hit single "Promises Kept" continues to climb the Southern Gospel charts, Anthem Edition is already looking ahead with the release of their first new music of 2026, the energetic quartet anthem "He Is Who He Is." Released through Sonlite Records, the song blends classic quartet harmony with a lively bluegrass touch and a bold theological message rooted in Exodus 3:14 and Malachi 3:6, declaring the eternal and unchanging character of God. Written by noted gospel songwriter Mark Mathes and featuring spirited banjo work from veteran musician David Johnson, the track captures the group's signature sound while pointing listeners to the timeless truth that the "Great I Am" remains the same yesterday, today and forever. In this interview, the group reflects on the message behind the song, their journey from The Old Paths to Anthem Edition, and how they continue to carry the legacy of quartet music into a new season.
Q: Anthem Edition has experienced an incredible journey-from your beginnings in 2003 as The Old Paths to your reemergence under a new name and lineup. How would you describe who Anthem Edition is today, and what continues to define your mission in Southern Gospel music?
The mission has always remained the same for us-to share the love of Christ through song. From the early days as The Old Paths until now as Anthem Edition, that calling hasn't changed. We've always tried to give our best every night, and this current lineup is probably the most consistent lineup we've had to date. Another thing that has defined this group through the years is finding great songs with strong hook lines that people remember and connect with.
Q: "He Is Who He Is" boldly declares the unchanging nature of God, drawing from Exodus 3:14 and Malachi 3:6. Why was this message especially important for you to release at the start of 2026?
We're living in a world where everything seems to be constantly changing. That's why a song like this is so important right now. It reminds listeners that while culture, circumstances, and even people may change, God's character never does. He is eternally the same-and that truth is amazing and incredibly comforting.
Q: Mark Mathes' songwriting captures both theology and joy in a way that feels tailor-made for quartet music. What stood out to you when you first heard the song, and how did you know it was the right fit for Anthem Edition?
When we first heard the song, it immediately took us back to the energy and excitement we experienced when we first came on the scene in 2012 with our breakthrough Sonlite album with Crossroads. It had that same strong message and memorable chorus that really fits what Anthem Edition has always tried to do musically.
Q: The track features a lively bluegrass edge with David Johnson's banjo picking and rich instrumental layers from piano, pedal steel, and electric guitar. How did those musical elements help shape the energy and identity of the recording?
Bluegrass has always been one of the foundations of gospel music, even though you don't hear it as often in quartet music today. When you combine that bluegrass feel with quartet harmony, it really creates something special. The banjo and the other instruments give the track a lot of life and drive, so bringing those elements together is really a win-win.
Q: The chorus proclaims Christ as "The Alpha, Omega, the Babe from Bethlehem... the Great I Am." How do you hope audiences respond when they sing those declarations night after night?
Our hope is that every time people hear the song or sing along, it excites them. More importantly, we hope it reminds them of who Jesus really is and who He can be in their lives. Those declarations are powerful, and we want them to resonate with people long after the song ends.
Q: With "Promises Kept" still climbing the charts and "He Is Who He Is" now streaming in Dolby Atmos, how do you balance honoring the classic quartet tradition while continuing to expand your sound and reach new listeners?
We actually have a lot of younger followers, and I think that comes from being genuine about our message. At the end of the day, our focus is clear-Jesus is the only way to heaven and our only hope in this life. That message transcends musical style. Our sound may evolve or incorporate new elements, but the message remains the same, and the style simply helps bring that message to life.
"He Is Who He Is" is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL. Listen to it HERE.
