Show summary Hide summary
Brandon Lake is joining forces with country star Lainey Wilson for an emotional new collaboration. The song, titled ‘The Jesus I Know Now,’ drops April 3 on Good Friday. This faith-focused duet blends contemporary Christian worship with country storytelling in a way fans haven’t heard before.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Release Date: April 3, 2026 on Good Friday
- Song Title: “The Jesus I Know Now”
- Artists: Brandon Lake and Lainey Wilson collaboration
- Theme: Faith journey, rediscovering Jesus through grace, not judgment
A Unexpected Collaboration That Started With a Story
Brandon Lake revealed how this collaboration came to life during an interview with Lainey Wilson. According to Lake, Wilson shared her personal faith story with him, mentioning how the Jesus she knows now is different from the one she was taught growing up. Lake was so moved by her testimony that he decided to write a song inspired by her experience. The Christian music trailblazer called Wilson “the realest deal” and praised her vulnerability in sharing her journey.
This marks a significant moment in contemporary Christian music as it crosses over into mainstream country. Lake’s quote captures the heart of the project perfectly. According to Lake, Wilson stated something that sparked creative fire: the Jesus she knows now isn’t the harsh, judgmental figure from her childhood teachings.
Brandon Lake announces new song with Lainey Wilson, releases April 3
American Idol reveals Top 20 finalists, 3 platinum ticket winners advance
What Makes This Song So Powerful
The track explores spiritual redemption and grace for anyone who felt alienated by strict religious upbringings. lyrics referenced in early releases include lines about being told Jesus was angry and that he didn’t like loud music. The song challenges those misconceptions and celebrates a more compassionate understanding of faith. Lake’s message emphasizes that Jesus is “full of grace” and “especially fond of the misfits.”
| Detail | Information |
| Release Date | April 3, 2026 (Good Friday) |
| Song Title | The Jesus I Know Now |
| Artists | Brandon Lake feat. Lainey Wilson |
| Genre Blend | Christian worship and country |
“God’s been opening doors, and I believe every one of them is for the purpose of sharing the Gospel and reaching more people with truth. There’s something powerful about Kingdom collaboration.”
— Brandon Lake, Contemporary Christian artist
Part of Brandon Lake’s Country Crossover Journey
This Lainey Wilson collaboration isn’t Lake’s first venture into country music. He recently released duets with Bailey Zimmerman (‘Just Believe’), Cody Johnson (‘When a Cowboy Prays’), and Jelly Roll (‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’). Each project explores the intersection of faith and country storytelling in fresh ways. Lake has been strategically building crossover credibility while maintaining his roots in contemporary worship music.
The 2026 collaboration wave signals Lake’s commitment to reaching broader audiences. Russell Dickerson recently revealed he has three unreleased collaborations with Lake waiting in the wings. This period marks an exciting experimental phase for the artist as he bridges musical genres without compromising his message of hope and redemption.
Why This Good Friday Release Matters So Much
Releasing “The Jesus I Know Now” on Good Friday carries deep spiritual significance. The timing reflects Lake’s intention to share a message of grace during Christianity’s most important holy day. He wants listeners to encounter a Jesus who accepts everyone, especially those who’ve been hurt by rigid religious institutions. This Easter season release positions the song as a spiritual anthem for the questioning and the marginalized. Will this duet become the anthem for faith reclamation that fans are hoping for?
Sources
- Holler Country – Brandon Lake’s heartwarming tribute to Lainey Wilson confirming April 3 release date
- JR Country – Lainey Wilson joins Brandon Lake for emotional new release dropping April 3
- Whiskey Riff – Brandon Lake and Lainey Wilson Good Friday release announcement
