Behind every great song is someone who recognizes its heart, and we’re honored to have an incredible panel of artists, songwriters, and industry leaders doing just that for Inpsiremore’s 2nd Annual Christian Song Contest. Each judge brings a unique perspective shaped by their own faith, creativity, and experience, united by a passion for discovering songs that inspire, encourage, and point people toward hope. We’re grateful for the time, care, and expertise they’ve invested, and we’re excited to introduce the talented individuals helping us celebrate the next generation of Christian songwriters
Meet Stephen Stanley, an acclaimed artist whose distinctive sound blends rock, pop, and atmospheric influences into music that is both deeply personal and sonically expansive. A Dove Award winner for Rock Album of the Year, Stanley has garnered more than 200 million streams and built a social media audience of over 1.4 million followers. His music has also been featured in film and television, further showcasing his ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and emotionally resonant songwriting. Known for his raw artistry and compelling lyrical perspective, Stanley continues to make a lasting impact on the contemporary Christian music landscape.
Meet Rachael Lampa, a Dove Award-winning artist, mom, and child of God, whose powerful vocals and heartfelt songwriting have made her one of Christian music’s most enduring voices. Since releasing her debut album, Live for You, she has earned multiple No. 1 singles, including “Perfectly Loved,” and continues to connect with audiences through songs centered on faith, identity, and hope. Her latest release, Superpowers, is an anthem written about her 2-year-old son with Down syndrome, which has been widely received and celebrated in the disability community. Beyond music, Lampa co-founded the nonprofit People Loving Nashville, and her passion for serving others continues to shape both her artistry and message.
Meet Aaron Shust, a Dove Award-winning singer-songwriter whose Scripture-centered worship music has impacted listeners for nearly two decades. His breakout hit “My Savior My God” earned Dove Awards for New Artist, Songwriter, and Song of the Year in 2007, followed by chart-topping songs including “My Hope Is in You” and “Ever Be.” In recent years, Shust has drawn inspiration from his friendships with Messianic Jews and his study of the Hebrew Scriptures, influences reflected in projects like Heaven + Earth: The Psalms Project. A Pittsburgh native, he lives in Nashville with his wife, Sarah, and their three sons, where family and faith continue to shape both his life and music.
Meet HOPEFUL., an Oceanside, California-based indie rock band turning personal battles with anxiety and depression into a powerful message of faith and hope. Blending soul-driven indie rock, garage grit, and Southern California influences, the band creates anthems for those searching for light in the darkness and delivers live experiences rooted in stories of struggle, redemption, and resilience. With over 15 million streams in 2025, major playlist features, and performances at Rock the Universe and Liberty University, HOPEFUL. is building momentum toward their debut LP, the art of letting go, arriving summer 2026.
Meet Jonathan Sell, a music industry executive and the founder of Origin Creative Group, bringing more than 15 years of experience in artist development, management, and A&R. During his time with Centricity Music and Capitol CMG/Universal Music Group, he helped guide the careers of acclaimed artists including Lauren Daigle, Seph Schlueter, Mandisa, Rend Collective, Jordan Feliz, Crowder, and Passion Music. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Sell continues to champion artists and songwriters through strategic career development and creative leadership.
Meet Karrie Dawley, the Head of Creative at Anotherland, where she leads creative strategy across the label and publishing divisions while helping shape the vision for the company’s growing roster of artists and songwriters. With nearly two decades of experience in publishing, A&R, and artist development, Dawley has played a key role in discovering and developing some of Christian music’s most impactful voices. Prior to joining Anotherland, she served as Senior Vice President of Publishing at CCMG, where she signed acclaimed writers including Hank Bentley and Jeff Sojka. Her career has also included creative and A&R roles at Word Records, EMI/CMG, and Essential Records, where she worked with artists such as Mandisa and Kari Jobe.
Meet Josh Bailey, the co-founder of the new modern music company By Design. The label is part of a larger ecosystem comprised of By Design, the record label and music publisher; Archetype Music, a music rights acquisitions company; and Blueprint, a nonprofit equipping creators. Formerly, Bailey spent six years in leadership at Capitol Christian Music Group, overseeing A&R and supporting artists, as well as 14 years at Word Entertainment developing artists.
Meet Scott Graves, an accomplished music industry executive with extensive experience in A&R and music publishing. Throughout his career, he has held roles with leading companies including Warner Music, Sony Music, and Virgin, helping discover and develop some of today’s most respected artists. Known for his keen ear for talent, Graves has been instrumental in signing artists such as Josh Ritter, Brendan Benson, Langhorne Slim, Lenka, and many more.
Ready to share your story through song? Submit your original music for a chance to be heard, celebrated, and recognized by industry-leading judges who believe in the power of meaningful songwriting.
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