Chris Tomlin’s “Holy Forever” hits the summit on Billboard’s Christian Airplay and Christian AC Airplay surveys (dated Aug. 5).
On Christian Airplay, the song ascends 3-1 after gaining by 4% to 6 million impressions in the July 21-27 tracking week, according to Luminate. It also climbs 3-1 on Christian AC Airplay, up 3% in plays.
Tomlin adds his 11th and 10th leader on each respective list. He co-authored “Holy Forever” with Jason Ingram, Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson and Phil Wickham.
“I remember over 20 years ago being told that radio wouldn’t play worship music,” Tomlin tells Billboard. “So, fast-forward to today and not only do I have another No. 1 at radio, but also the ongoing opportunity to help give people a voice to worship God through radio, streaming, live events and through songs being led in the church. It’s something I will never take for granted. I could never have imagined the doors and opportunities God would open up, and I am so excited, and expectant, for what’s next.”
Tomlin last led Christian Airplay for six weeks starting in October 2020 with “Who You Are to Me,” featuring Lady A. His run of No. 1s began in April 2006 with “How Great Is Our God.”
In between his two latest Christian Airplay No. 1s, Tomlin scored two top 10s: “Thank You,” featuring Thomas Rhett and Florida Georgia Line (No. 6, December 2021), and “Always” (No. 5, October 2022).
With 11 Christian Airplay No. 1s, Tomlin moves to within one of the record among soloists, as Jeremy Camp, tobyMac and Matthew West have 12 apiece. MercyMe leads all acts with 18 No. 1s.
Camp’s 13 Christian AC Airplay leaders mark the most among solo artists, with Tomlin and West tied for second with 10 each. Overall, MercyMe likewise has the most, with 19.
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