NRT Music is celebrating a major milestone as six artists from its roster have been selected for Spotify's Fresh Finds Forward program, an initiative supporting emerging independent artists with resources and opportunities to build sustainable music careers.
The six selected artists are HOMECOMING, Josh Grove, SAPHIRE, Zane Walls, The Slower I Go, and Bailey Thompson. Their selection highlights the growing talent within NRT Music's roster and the label's commitment to helping independent Christian artists reach new audiences.
Launched in September 2026, Spotify's Fresh Finds Forward builds on the success of its Fresh Finds editorial playlist program, which has helped more than 80,000 artists across 127 countries connect with new listeners. The expanded initiative aims to support approximately 10,000 emerging independent artists annually through professional development, industry connections, creative resources, and tools for long-term career growth.
For NRT Music, the recognition reflects its ongoing mission to discover, develop, and champion independent Christian artists. Since launching in 2024, the label has grown to represent more than 35 artists across contemporary Christian music, worship, pop, rock, R&B, gospel, and other genres.
"We have been incredibly blessed to work with some amazing artists early in their careers," shares Kevin McNeese, founder of NRT Music. He added that artist development remains central to the label's mission and expressed excitement about celebrating the six artists while continuing to champion talent across its entire roster.
Spotify's Fresh Finds initiative has become an important discovery platform for independent musicians. According to Spotify, its Fresh Finds playlists have generated more than 128 million new artist discoveries since 2024, with nearly 70% of playlist streams coming from listeners hearing an artist for the first time.
The recognition comes as NRT Music continues to grow. The label recently celebrated its second anniversary after generating more than six million streams during its second year of operation. Working with distribution partner Syntax Creative, NRT Music continues to invest in artist development, strategic promotion, editorial exposure, and opportunities to help independent Christian artists build lasting careers.
Congratulations to HOMECOMING, Josh Grove, SAPHIRE, Zane Walls, The Slower I Go, and Bailey Thompson on this exciting achievement.
Listeners can discover music from the label through the NRT Music official playlist and explore releases across Spotify and Apple Music.
For more information about the label and its artists, visit NRTMusic.com. You can also check the NRT Music release schedule for upcoming releases.
