Jason Nelson and Madison Ryann Ward have given gospel music fans another reason to celebrate.
The powerhouse vocalists have climbed to the top of Billboard's Gospel Airplay chart with their soulful duet, "Made New (Radio Edit)," proving that heartfelt worship and smooth R&B-inspired grooves remain a winning combination.
Audio Link: https://fts.lnk.to/MNRE
The achievement marks yet another milestone for Nelson, whose unmistakable tenor has become one of gospel radio's most dependable voices over the past two decades. The chart-topper is now his sixth No. 1 Gospel Airplay hit, adding to a remarkable catalog that includes fan favorites such as "Nothing Without You," "Residue," and "Forever." With more than 300 million career streams, Nelson continues to cement his place among contemporary gospel's most consistent hitmakers.
Taking to Instagram after learning the news, Nelson gave all the credit where he believes it belongs.
"It's amazing to know that what you heard and released is received by the masses. #MadeNew is number 1! God gets the glory!"
Ironically, Made New wasn't originally planned as a radio smash. The song first appeared on Nelson's Stellar Award-winning album, You Belong: Live in Durham, which earned Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year at the 2025 Stellar Gospel Music Awards. After audiences embraced the song organically, Nelson and Ward reunited to record a fresh version at Nashville's City Winery-a decision that has clearly paid off.
Ward's contribution has also introduced many gospel listeners to one of independent music's brightest voices. Raised on a steady diet of gospel, blues, and R&B, the Oklahoma native has quietly built an impressive career through her own Zelda House Records label. Her emotionally rich songwriting and unmistakable vocals have helped songs such as "Mirror" and "BRKN" accumulate more than 100 million combined streams, making her one of Christian music's most respected independent artists.
Together, Nelson and Ward created something that feels refreshingly different from many current gospel radio releases-equal parts worship anthem, soulful ballad, and intimate testimony. Judging by the Billboard charts, listeners couldn't get enough.
For Nelson, the latest No. 1 serves as another reminder that longevity in gospel music isn't simply about staying relevant-it's about continuing to create songs that point listeners toward the God who truly makes lives "made new."
