Ron Kenoly, the celebrated American Christian worship leader, singer and songwriter, has passed away.
He was aged 81.
Bruno Miranda, Kenoly’s music director, confirmed the legend’s passing in a statement on Tuesday.
The statement revealed that Kenoly passed away on February 3, 2026, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
Miranda, who worked closely with Kenoly for over 20 years, described him not just as a mentor, but as a spiritual father, emphasizing Kenoly’s unwavering dedication to his calling.
“This morning, Feb. 3, 2026, we said goodbye to Dr. Ron Kenoly,” the statement began.
“For over 20 years, I had the honor of walking alongside him in ministry around the world—not just as his music director, but as a son, a student, and a witness to a life marked by faithfulness. Doc was very intentional about one thing: he was never an artist, never an entertainer.
He was a worship leader. And he took all the time necessary to explain what that truly meant.”
“A worship leader’s calling is not to perform songs, but to lead people into true worship in the presence of a King; the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. He taught me that a worship leader is not merely a song leader, but a servant who connects with people whose hearts are open to worship, guiding them to ‘enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise’ (Psalm 100:4, ESV).
“Worship, he would say, is always rooted in gratitude for what Christ has done for us, and never in anticipation of what we want Him to do.”
Miranda continued, highlighting Kenoly’s integrity and humility, both on and off the stage: “Off the stage, Doc carried the same integrity, humility, and reverence for God that the world saw under the lights. He taught me that worship begins long before the first note is played, shaped by obedience, character, and a deep fear of the Lord.”
The statement concluded with a heartfelt tribute: “Today we grieve deeply but not without hope. The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds. Until we meet again, my pastor, my mentor, my friend.”
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly moved to Hollywood, California, after high school and later served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1968. During his military service, he performed with a cover band, the Mellow Fellows, touring various military bases.
After his service, Kenoly returned to Los Angeles to pursue a full-time music ministry, eventually becoming one of the most influential figures in contemporary Christian worship music.
His breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of Lift Him Up, which became the fastest-selling worship album of its time.
Kenoly’s impact on worship music remains profound, and his legacy will continue to inspire worship leaders and believers worldwide.