Gospel powerhouse Tasha Cobbs Leonard officially released her first-ever studio album, TASHA, on July 25, 2025, via Motown Gospel. The album features a standout collaboration with John Legend on the spiritually resonant track “Church.” The music video premiered exclusively with PEOPLE, introducing a contemplative, minimalist visual centered on worship stripped down to its rawest form
In the exclusive PEOPLE premiere, the duo performs surrounded by a choir clad in white—accompanied only by Legend on piano. The setting is deliberately spare: no lights, no crowds, no distractions—just two voices lifted in worship. Leonard emphasized their intention to evoke the intimacy and sacredness of worship anywhere, not just inside church walls
Legend said their recording process was inspired by mutual respect and a shared vision, calling Leonard’s voice, songwriting, and ministry “powerful and inspiring.” He reflected on the collaboration with gratitude and joy, eager for listeners to experience what they felt in the studio
Fast-forward from her long history of acclaimed live gospel recordings, TASHA marks Cobbs Leonard’s creative departure into an intimate studio environment. The 15-track project blends gospel, worship, hip-hop, pop, and even ’80s-style R&B textures, delivering what she describes as her most personal work yet—unfiltered, vulnerable, and deeply rooted in faith
“This album is the truest expression of who I am right now,” said Leonard. “It’s vulnerable, it’s honest, it’s joyful—and it’s rooted in everything I believe about God meeting us exactly where we are”
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Collaborators include Lecrae on “I Needed God,” Chandler Moore on “I Want More,” and Kirk Franklin on “I Still Choose You,” each contributing to a spiritually rich and sonically varied album
“Church” stands out for its intimate atmosphere. Leonard and Legend deliver vocals in near silence, backed only by piano and choir, giving the song an organic, holy presence. The lyrics focus on finding communion with God “on a Monday,” suggesting that church is more than location—it’s a state of heart and connection. Legend’s involvement brings crossover appeal, and his praise of Leonard’s ministry and artistry underscores the collaboration’s authenticity
TASHA is Leonard’s first studio album following a string of successful live projects, including Royalty: Live at the Ryman and Hymns. It spans genres from gospel to R&B to bluegrass. One track, “Friend,” fn meatures a string band, while another, “Already Good (Tasha Slide),” leans into danceable rhythms. Songs like “Broken Pieces” address pain and healing, while “The Hand That Keeps Holding Me” reflects on grace rooted in scripture
Leonard described the album as “just Tasha, a microphone and Jesus,” reflecting on her journey through anxiety, loss, and faith that shaped both her ministry and her music. John Legend called the collaboration joyous and spiritually uplifting, saying he’s thrilled for listeners to experience “the joy we felt”
“Church” is more than a song—it expands the definition of worship, embracing everyday spaces, emotions, and routines. The album balances traditional gospel roots with modern sounds, signaling growth in both artistry and audience. Released during a cultural moment that values authenticity and mental health in faith communities, Leonard’s openness about depression and grief gives the project added emotional weight
Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s TASHA is a defining pivot in her career—embracing studio intimacy and emotional depth. “Church,” the album’s centerpiece collaboration with John Legend, visualizes worship stripped to its spiritual core: pure, unembellished, and deeply intentional. Together, they deliver a moment that transcends genre—a musical reminder that faith is accessible anytime, anywhere.