Monthly Music Recommendations: Top 5 Christian Songs for August 2026
The buzz of a new school year is in the air. Whether you’re currently a student, have kids who are, or are way past those days, here are some song suggestions for your last summer month!
“Last Drink” by NEEDTOBREATHE
With a slight twang, “Last Drink” is an upbeat, sweet song about a man who is striving to be a better father to his son. He rejects the ways of this world and leans completely on Jesus and his restorative power. Jesus’s blood is his last drink. It’s a powerful testimony.
“Fear Thou Not” by Josh Garrels
Garrels isn’t a new name to anyone up to date on my monthly suggestions, and for good reason. His haunting tone subverts expectations of Christian music. In this song, Garrels’s voice is backed by an angelic choir. It’s a short and simple arrangement reciting Isaiah 41:10. It could be used as a prayer.
“So Much Love In My Heart” by Emma Nissen
Nissen has a powerhouse voice, both jazzy and smooth. On this track, a choir recites the chorus with her. It’s a fun song, complete with several key changes and improvisations. It reminds me of the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ. I’ve got so much love in my heart!
“Amazing Grace” by Sufjan Stevens
Stevens was once a big voice in the alternative Christian music space, but he has recently moved away from producing faith-based art. Nevertheless, his stripped-down arrangement of John Newton’s “Amazing Grace” is reminiscent of a few friends worshipping around a campfire. Combine that communal, relatable feeling with the timeless lyrics of Newton’s hymn and you’ve got a flawless rendition.
“Jesus Gave Me Water” by Sam Cooke
Cooke may not be known for Christian music, but the album The Two Sides of Sam Cooke features several classic gospel songs that remind listeners of how talented musicians were back in the day. This song—the third on this album—recounts the story of the woman at the well. There’s no denying Cooke has an incredible voice, and it’s even more powerful when he uses it to sing Scripture.
Thanks for tuning in monthly for new music recommendations! I’ve created a Spotify playlist (I apologize to Apple Music users out there) that I will update with songs from each month’s list. See you in September!
