Christian singer-songwriter Forrest Frank, known for his uplifting, faith-centered music and his role in the duo Surfaces, has announced that he will no longer attend or accept any music awards, saying his art is “for God’s glory — not for human applause.”

The 29-year-old Texas native made the announcement in a heartfelt social media post that quickly went viral among Christian music fans. His message, simple yet profound, resonated deeply in an era when fame and faith often collide under the glare of the entertainment industry.

“I don’t want trophies for something meant to glorify God,” Frank wrote. “Music is my worship. If I’m doing it right, the only reward I need is eternal.”

A Stand Against Industry Idolatry

Frank, who has amassed millions of streams across platforms and is known for blending pop, gospel, and R&B influences, said his decision came after “months of reflection” about what success truly means in the modern music world.

In his statement, he noted that the pursuit of fame, awards, and recognition can subtly shift an artist’s focus from serving God to serving self.

“The music industry is built to celebrate talent,” he said. “But faith calls us to celebrate the One who gave us that talent in the first place.”

Frank explained that while he’s grateful for the support of fans and the recognition he’s received over the years, he’s choosing to step away from the award-show culture that often emphasizes competition over conviction.

“There’s nothing wrong with being recognized,” he wrote. “But for me personally, I can’t reconcile standing on a stage to accept a trophy when I know every lyric, every beat, every blessing comes from God alone.”

Fans and Faith Leaders Applaud the Move

The post has drawn tens of thousands of comments and shares, with many fans praising Frank’s humility and boldness.

“This is what real faith looks like in a world obsessed with validation,” one fan commented.
“He’s reminding us that heaven’s rewards don’t come with gold plating and acceptance speeches,” another wrote.

Several Christian pastors and artists also weighed in, calling Frank’s stance both countercultural and convicting.

Pastor and author Levi Lusko reposted the announcement, writing:

“Forrest Frank just reminded an entire generation that worship isn’t about applause — it’s about alignment.”

Similarly, fellow artist Tauren Wells commented, “This is kingdom perspective. We need more of this in the music world.”

The Faith Behind the Fame

Forrest Frank rose to prominence as one half of Surfaces, the genre-bending duo known for hits like “Sunday Best” and “Wave of You.”
After finding mainstream success, Frank gradually began steering his solo career toward faith-based projects, releasing songs that emphasize gratitude, surrender, and the joy of walking with Christ.

His 2023 single “Good Day” became a viral anthem among Christian youth, featuring lyrics that blended scripture-inspired optimism with modern pop beats. More recently, his song “No Longer I” charted on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs list, cementing his position as one of the most prominent crossover voices in contemporary Christian music.

Despite that success, Frank has remained remarkably grounded. In interviews, he’s often spoken about the tension between artistry and authenticity, and how fame can distort a believer’s priorities if left unchecked.

“The world tells you to chase the spotlight,” Frank said in a podcast earlier this year. “But the closer you get to the light of God, the less you need any spotlight at all.”

A Broader Conversation in Christian Music

Frank’s announcement comes at a time when the Christian music industry itself has been wrestling with questions about commercialization, celebrity culture, and authenticity.

Critics and theologians alike have warned that even Christian artists can fall into the same traps of pride and competition that dominate mainstream entertainment.

Dr. Aaron McCarter, a theologian at Liberty University who studies faith in the arts, said Frank’s statement could spark necessary reflection within the industry.

“When a major artist publicly rejects awards, he’s challenging the very structure that often commodifies worship,” McCarter said. “It’s not just symbolic — it’s prophetic.”

He added, “This could encourage a new generation of Christian artists to ask themselves: Who am I making music for — people, or the presence of God?”

Eternal Rewards Over Earthly Recognition

In his message, Frank referenced several Bible verses that inspired his decision — including Matthew 6:19–21, where Jesus urges believers not to store up treasures on earth, and Colossians 3:23, which reminds Christians to work “as unto the Lord, not for men.”

“At the end of the day, no award show can give me peace,” Frank wrote. “Only Jesus can do that. I’d rather have a quiet life in obedience than a loud one built on applause.”

He concluded his statement by encouraging other artists to reexamine what motivates their creative pursuits.

“If your art points people to God, that’s your reward. If it points them to you, maybe it’s time to step back and ask why.”

Industry Reaction: Respect and Reflection

Even within secular entertainment circles, Frank’s decision is being met with a mix of surprise and respect.

A representative from a major Christian record label — who requested anonymity — said the move is “highly unusual but deeply admirable.”

“Awards are a big part of visibility and marketing,” the rep explained. “Turning them down isn’t easy. But Forrest has always operated from conviction. This will only strengthen his credibility and deepen his impact.”

Meanwhile, executives from several Christian media outlets, including K-LOVE and CCM Magazine, have already invited Frank for interviews to discuss his faith decision in greater depth.

Industry analysts suggest his influence could extend far beyond music, potentially inspiring conversations about humility and worship within broader Christian culture.

The Cost of Conviction

Walking away from award shows could come with tangible consequences. Industry recognition often translates into career opportunities — sponsorships, collaborations, and media exposure. Yet, Frank appears unconcerned.

In a follow-up post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote simply:

“If I lose the world but gain Christ, I’ve lost nothing. If I gain the world but lose Him, I’ve lost everything.”

The comment drew over 2 million views in less than 24 hours, underscoring how his message — though personal — has struck a cultural nerve.

A Modern Reminder of an Ancient Truth

In an age where viral fame often defines artistic success, Forrest Frank’s decision stands out as a rare act of resistance. His message echoes an older, quieter truth: that what is eternal far outweighs what is temporary.

Whether or not other Christian artists follow his lead, Frank’s stand has already reframed the conversation around faith, fame, and the meaning of success in modern worship.

As one fan commented poignantly beneath his post:

“He’s not rejecting awards. He’s rejecting idolatry.”

And perhaps, in doing so, Forrest Frank has reminded the world that even in the spotlight, the truest act of worship is still humility.