Chris Tomlin vs. CeCe Winans | Head 2 Head

In the 23^rd edition of Head 2 Head (2024), Chris Tomlin and CeCe Winans contend for the best rendition of “Holy Forever.”

Welcome to Head 2 Head! On Head 2 Head, we pit at least two musicians performing the same song, comparing their respective performances.  Then, after much deliberation, we deliver a verdict of which performance was the best, or at least, subjectively, which performance moved us more.  In the 23rd edition of Head 2 Head (2024), Chris Tomlin and CeCe Winans contend for the best rendition of “Holy Forever”. So, without further ado, let the Head 2 Head commence!

1. Chris Tomlin, “Holy Forever”

Always // Rivermusic Holdings, LP // 2022 

“And the angels cry, ‘Holy’ / All creation cries, ‘holy’ / You are lifted high, holy / Holy forever.” Chris Tomlin is one of contemporary Christian music’s most successful artists.  Nominated for multiple awards, including a Grammy win, Tomlin has used his gift of singing and songwriting to praise God 🙌.  On his 2022 album, Always, Tomlin masterfully magnified His (aka God’s) holy name with “Holy Forever.” He penned the faith-based gem alongside Brian Johnson, Jason Ingram, Jenn Johnson, and Phil Wickham.

“Holy Forever” is stunning.  Some CCM tracks can be blasé – a bit sanitized – but “Holy Forever” latches.  It commences with gorgeous piano riffs.  The melodies that Tomlin sings are tuneful.  Never forcing things, Chris sings with poise, reverence, and the utmost sincerity. Listening to him perform it’s NOT about him but about GOD.  After all, in the pre-chorus, he asserts, “All thrones and dominions / All powers and positions / Your name stands above them all.” The centerpiece, excerpted above, is the chorus where Tomlin sings with the choir.  It is stupendous and, fittingly, holy.  In the second verse, Tomlins sings with Jenn Johnson.  Their chemistry is marvelous. The chorus that follows soars even higher than the first. Furthermore, it’s expanded lyrically:

“Hear Your people sing, ‘Holy’

To the King of Kings, holy

You will always be holy

Holy forever.”

Chris Tomlin shines on “Holy Forever,” a moving song of praise to G-O-D.

2. CeCe Winans, “Holy Forever”

More Than This // Pure Springs Gospel, Inc. // 2024

“And all who’ve gone before us and all who will believe / Will sing the song of ages to the Lamb.” Hallelujah 🙌 ! Amen 🙏 ! Versatile, Grammy-winning, gospel artist CeCe Winans covers the Chris Tomlin gem, “Holy Forever” in her 2024 album, More Than This. The spiritual and musical lifts are exceptional in her rendition.  Winans proves how engaging CCM can be in a gifted gospel singer’s hands. Notably, Winans opts for a higher key compared to Tomlin.

The main takeaway from “Holy Forever” is the awesomeness of the Savior. Chris Tomlin successfully conveyed that in the original. Winans powerfully lauds Him, too: “Your name is the highest / Your name is the greatest.” The pre-chorus is a fabulous preface to the soaring chorus, the most memorable section of the song.  Tomlin and the choir ‘brought it’ in the original. Here, CeCe and choir ‘bring it’ too.  She sounds elite vocally blessing us with her anointed instrument.  She’s powerful but never over-sings, providing just the right punch. Throughout the rest of “Holy Forever,” she superbly brings authenticity, energy, and expressiveness. No extensive analysis is necessary. “Holy Forever” speaks for itself.

Appears in 🔻:

• CeCe Winans, Holy Forever: Music Lifts 🎶 🏋 20 (2024)

The Verdict 👨🏿‍⚖️ 

So, who performs “Holy Forever” the best? Is it the original by Chris Tomlin or the cover by CeCe Winans? Ooh-wee, this is a tough one.  First and foremost, both musicians are focused on praising God, not praise for themselves. Both renditions effectively laud and magnify Him. Give Tomlin credit for penning this holy song alongside other talented musicians and writers.  In the lead vocal spot, Chris sounds strong.  While Winans didn’t write “Holy,” she didn’t need to.  Her interpretation is stellar. So, who comes out with the dub? It’s giving a tie.  After all, it’s all for the glory of God!

Chris Tomlin vs. CeCe Winans: Head 2 Head No. 23 (2024) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Pure Springs Gospel, Inc., Rivermusic Holdings, LP; Hernán Toro, Los Muertos Crew, RDNE Stock project, Thomas Ronveaux from Pexels]