Josiah Queen Gets Real on New Single “judas” — A Powerful Reflection on Faith, Failure, and Redemption

The platinum-selling singer/songwriter just dropped his latest single “judas,” a raw and powerful track that continues to showcase why he’s become one of the most impactful voices in Christian music right now.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzbH9pTz_rI

Building on the emotional weight of recent releases like “demons” (which hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Christian Streaming Songs chart) and his radio smash “Can’t Steal My Joy,” “judas” leans into Queen’s signature folk-rock sound while diving into some heavy themes — guilt, betrayal, and ultimately, grace.

But what makes this record stand out is the perspective. Instead of pointing fingers, Queen turns inward. By placing himself in the story of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, he explores a tough but honest idea: betrayal isn’t just something biblical villains like Judas are guilty of — it’s something anyone is capable of when they lose their way.

The track starts off stripped and intense, letting his storytelling take center stage. Then it builds into a huge, arena-ready chorus packed with emotion and conviction, driven by fast-paced guitars, banjo, and pounding drums. It’s the kind of song that feels just as personal as it does powerful.

By the end, “judas” shifts from shame to redemption, delivering a message that hits at the core of Queen’s music — no matter how far you fall, there’s always a path back.

Outside of the release, Queen is keeping his momentum going on the road. He’s currently in the middle of his nearly sold-out Mt. Zion Tour, performing tonight at The Fillmore in Charlotte before wrapping up the U.S. run in Boston this May. From there, he’s hitting major festivals this summer and taking things international with a U.K. and European leg in September.

If you’ve been paying attention, this rise isn’t random. With over 1.3 billion global streams, Queen’s journey started young — sharing self-written songs at just 16 before going viral with “I am Barabbas.” Since then, he’s stacked major milestones, including his breakout hit “The Prodigal” (now platinum-certified and Dove Award-nominated), a Billboard Hot 100 appearance with “Dusty Bibles,” and sold-out shows at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium.

And he’s not slowing down anytime soon.

With “judas” setting the tone, it’s clear Josiah Queen is entering another defining chapter — one rooted in honesty, growth, and music that actually means something.