The Storyteller of 40,000 Lives Launches the “Jesus Is King Tour”

 Who Is Matthew West?

Matthew West, 49, from Downers Grove, Illinois, is one of the most respected singer-songwriters in Christian music today. A four-time GRAMMY nominee and the 2025 ASCAP Songwriter-Artist of the Year, he became the first Christian artist ever to receive that honor twice.With 38 combined No. 1 radio hits as both an artist and songwriter, more than 1.3 billion streams, and over 7.5 million albums sold, Matthew West has built a career centered on one unique mission: transforming the real-life stories of his listeners into songs that bring healing, hope, and faith. Many consider him one of the most influential storytellers in Contemporary Christian Music after Chris Tomlin.

Current Update: September–November 2026 — The “Jesus Is King Tour”

His Journey: From Baseball to the Bible

The 1990s

Matthew West originally attended Millikin University on a baseball scholarship before an injury redirected his life toward music and ministry.

2003 — First Album

He released his debut album Happy and also began writing songs for artists such as Billy Ray Cyrus and Rascal Flatts.

2010 — The Birth of the “Story” Concept

His album The Story of Your Life was inspired entirely by more than 10,000 letters sent by fans sharing their personal struggles and testimonies.

2015 — Live Forever

Songs like Day One became major radio hits, continuing his mission of storytelling through faith-based music.

2023 — My Story Your Glory

The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Christian charts and featured collaborations with David Leonard and Jenn Johnson.

2024 — Don’t Stop Praying

Released October 4, the album and title track became a major success on Christian radio.

2025 — Christmas & Songwriting Honors

Matthew released Come Home For Christmas and was named NSAI Songwriter-Artist of the Year.

 Musical Style & Signature Sound in 2026

Voice : Warm, accessible Pop-CCM vocals mixed with conversational storytelling, humor, and vulnerability.

Sound : Piano-driven melodies, acoustic guitars, and radio-friendly production designed to connect emotionally with listeners.

Themes

His songs focus on: Redemption | Prayer | Identity | Hope | God’s purpose in everyday life

Matthew often says: “God has a plan for the story of every single life.”

Typical 2026 Setlist

• Don’t Stop Praying | Hello, My Name Is | Truth Be Told | The God Who Stays

• Broken Things | Strong Enough | Jesus Is King | Grace Wins

 Five Songs to Play on 940 Gospel Radio 

“Don’t Stop Praying” (2024)

A powerful reminder that prayer still changes lives.

“The God Who Stays” (2019)

A multi-platinum anthem about God’s faithfulness.

“Truth Be Told” (2020)

One of his most honest and vulnerable songs about brokenness and grace.

“Hello, My Name Is” (2013)

A Christian radio classic centered on identity in Christ.

“Jesus Is King” (2026)

The newest single and centerpiece of the 2026 tour.

Impact Beyond Music

• More than 40,000 personal stories received from listeners around the world

• Host of The Matthew West Podcast and Story House

• Author of devotional books including My Story, Your Glory

• Online prayer wall where fans share prayer requests and testimonies

• Creator of The Story House at Sea Alaska cruise experience with his family

Matthew West continues using music not just for entertainment, but for ministry and encouragement.

Matthew West’s 2026 Message

“This will be more than just a night of entertainment, but an unforgettable experience reminding people that God has a plan for the story of each of our lives.”

— Matthew West

940 Gospel Radio ?

Matthew West, the storyteller of more than 40,000 lives, reminds us that every prayer matters. His message through Don’t Stop Praying encourages listeners never to lose hope, even in difficult seasons.

It echoes Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.”

So today, ask yourself:
What story is God writing in your life right now?