Freshman Preston LeMacks wins Pop Song of the Year at Josie Music Awards

Kim Chaudoin  |  12/09/2024

It’s been a whirlwind first semester for Lipscomb University freshman Preston LeMacks, whose burgeoning music career recently hit a high note when he received the Pop Song of the Year award for his song, Tell Him About Me, at the 10th annual Josie Music Awards. Held at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, the awards are one of the premier honors in the independent music industry, with over 75,000 submissions reviewed and only 196 winners named.

For LeMacks, a commercial music production major from Houston, Texas, the recognition was more than an accolade — it was an affirmation of his faith and his calling.

“As an artist, you put so many hours of hard work into your music, so having that seen by an organization like the Josie Awards is such an amazing moment,” LeMacks shares. “I honestly went to the Josie Music Awards not expecting to win, and I was very shocked when they called my name. It was such a surreal moment — standing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry at 19 years old to receive this award.”

“I won't lie, (pursuing a career in music) can get overwhelming sometimes, and in those moments of feeling overwhelmed, you can start to lose sight of why you are doing this,” he continues. “Yet, in moments like that night, something like this happens to help you refocus on just how far you've come and why you continue to push forward and work so hard. It was a moment that I didn't even know that I needed, after leaving home and moving here, for God to confirm that I was indeed pursuing the calling that He placed on my life. It felt like confirmation that God had my future in His hands.” 

LeMacks’ song Tell Him About Me blends heartfelt lyrics with polished production, showcasing his passion for storytelling through music. He credits his time at Lipscomb with helping him refine his craft and make meaningful connections in the music world.

“I’ve been pushing myself to grow, make connections and collaborate with others here in Nashville,” says LeMacks, who has already released music videos for two of his songs, Tell Him About Me and Forget About Me, shot in his new hometown. “One thing that really helps is having the opportunity to write and perform with other students on campus. Performing with my ensemble has been an amazing experience.”

LeMacks chose Lipscomb largely for its supportive community and personalized approach to music education. “I felt like I wasn’t just another number to the music program. They cared about me and the art I could make. Those two things, combined with a lot of prayer, made it a pretty easy choice,” he says.

Since arriving on campus, LeMacks has embraced the challenges and opportunities of college life, finding inspiration among his professors and peers. “I have honestly loved every second of being on campus,” he said. “I’ve been lucky to get plugged in with amazing and talented friends who make every day feel like a movie scene. The professors here are truly amazing to be around and learn from. Being here has encouraged me to challenge myself in new ways. I can't wait to see how I've grown even a year from now.”

Looking ahead, LeMacks is already hard at work on his next project—a second EP slated for release early next year. “I’m so proud of these songs and can’t wait for them to be out in the world,” he says with excitement.

As his first semester at Lipscomb draws to a close, LeMacks is more certain than ever that his hard work and faith will continue to pave the way for his musical journey.

“I just want to encourage people that even when you can't see the immediate implications of all of the hard work that you're putting into your calling, God is always working behind the scenes in all of the small details, so keep pushing forward,” he says. “Never give up on the dreams God has placed in your heart.”

— Photo courtesy of Preston LeMacks