Renowned American gospel musician and worship leader, Ron Kenoly, has died at the age of 81, marking the end of an era in contemporary Christian worship music.
Kenoly’s death was confirmed on Tuesday by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, in a statement posted on the singer’s official Instagram page.
According to the statement, the gospel legend passed away on February 3, 2026.
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Miranda, who worked closely with Kenoly for more than two decades, described him as a mentor, pastor, and spiritual father whose life and ministry were defined by deep faith, humility, and unwavering commitment to worship.
He said Kenoly was intentional about distinguishing between performance and worship, stressing throughout his career that he was never an entertainer but a worship leader whose calling was to lead people into the presence of God.
Miranda noted that Kenoly taught that true worship was rooted in gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice, not in personal desires or expectations, and that a worship leader’s responsibility extended far beyond the stage to a life of obedience, character, and reverence for God.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly relocated to Hollywood, California, after high school.
He later enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving from 1965 to 1968. During his military years, he performed with a cover band, the Mellow Fellows, which toured several military bases.
After leaving the Air Force, Kenoly returned to Los Angeles and committed fully to music ministry, a decision that would eventually position him as one of the most influential voices in global Christian worship.
His major breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of Lift Him Up, which became the fastest-selling worship album of its time and cemented his reputation as a leading figure in gospel music.
Over the years, Kenoly released several successful albums that shaped modern praise and worship, including Jesus Is Alive, Ancient of Days, God Is Able, Sing Out With One Voice, Welcome Home, and High Places: The Best of Ron Kenoly.
Widely celebrated for his powerful voice and scripturally grounded worship style, Kenoly’s music transcended denominational and cultural boundaries, influencing churches and worship leaders across the world.
Tributes have continued to pour in from gospel artists, church leaders, and fans globally, many of whom credit him with redefining worship and mentoring generations of ministers.
Though mourned, those close to him describe his passing as a transition into the very worship he preached throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, music, and service that will endure for generations.
