Joe Douglass Announces New Music and Expands Worship Movement with “Psalm 96” and Upcoming 2026 Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OAKLAND, CA — March 25, 2026 — Gospel artist, worship leader, and visionary Joe Douglass continues to redefine the sound and reach of contemporary gospel music with new music on the horizon and the launch of a powerful new worship experience, Psalm 96.
A Bay Area native, Douglass has long been recognized for his ability to connect with audiences across generations and denominations. His journey began not only as a musician but as a promoter in 2009, curating concerts, seminars, and conferences that united diverse communities through faith and music.
Currently serving as Director of Worship at The Way Church in Berkeley, California under the leadership of civil rights activist and pastor Mike McBride, Douglass has consistently demonstrated a commitment to ministry that extends beyond the traditional church setting.
In 2012, he expanded his creative vision by founding the nationally recognized gospel recording group Spirit of Praise. Drawing inspiration from gospel greats such as The Hawkins Family, Richard Smallwood, and Donald Lawrence, Douglass cultivated a sound rooted in tradition yet forward-thinking in execution.
His debut project with the group, The Great I Am (2014), made a significant impact on the gospel charts, remaining in the Billboard Top 25 for 13 consecutive weeks and peaking at #4 in Gospel Album Sales. The album featured notable collaborations with artists including Tye Tribbett, Chrystal Rucker, and Lena Byrd-Miles, solidifying Douglass as a formidable force in the genre.
Building on that momentum, Douglass released his sophomore project, Journey to Glory (2020), recorded live before an audience of nearly 2,000 in Union City, California. The project received critical acclaim and featured collaborations with Lisa Page Brooks, KJ Scriven, Deon Kipping, and others, along with songwriting contributions from gospel legends Sunny and Edwin Hawkins.
In 2025, Douglass expanded his live performance footprint with Joe Douglass & Friends at the iconic Yoshi’s in Oakland, blending gospel with r&b, funk, and neo-soul influences.
Now, in 2026, Douglass is ushering in a new era with the launch of Psalm 96, a dynamic worship gathering designed to bring together leading voices in worship from across the country. Positioned as an annual event, Psalm 96 reflects Douglass’ ongoing mission to create transformative worship experiences that inspire unity, hope, and spiritual renewal.
Alongside this initiative, Douglass is preparing new music for release in 2026, collaborating with acclaimed producer Marcus Hodge (Los Angeles) and vocal producer Jimmy Johnson (Washington, DC). These upcoming projects promise to push creative boundaries while remaining rooted in messages of faith, love, and reflection.
With a career defined by innovation, excellence, and ministry impact, Joe Douglass continues to shape the future of gospel music while staying grounded in his purpose: to reach hearts, uplift communities, and spread the love of God through music.
Media Contact: Hasan James for Root Management & Consulting
Email: Hasan@rootmagazineonline.com
