A surprising shake-up has hit the world of modern gospel music. Founding members Chandler Moore and Naomi Raine have officially announced their departure from the widely acclaimed group Maverick City Music—a revelation that’s sparking both sadness and curiosity among fans. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: their exits come at a time when the group faces behind-the-scenes legal and business tensions.
The announcement came Monday through separate social media posts, as both Moore, 30, and Raine, 38, took a moment to reflect on their journeys and the next chapters ahead. Moore, one of the most recognizable voices in Maverick City, shared on Instagram that it was time to embrace new beginnings. He described the moment as bittersweet, explaining that stepping away from the collective felt like “saying goodbye to something that has been a part of my heart.” He hinted at the emotional and professional weight of the decision, especially amid Maverick’s internal challenges.
“These past two years have reminded me what truly matters,” Moore wrote. “I’ve decided to close this chapter with Maverick City Music and move into a new season. It’s not an easy goodbye—I poured so much of myself into Maverick. But now, I want to create music that helps people feel a little more human, more understood, and less alone.”
In a heartfelt message to his supporters, Moore thanked longtime fans for “rocking with him since the beginning” and expressed his appreciation for fellow group members Naomi, Brandon, Aaron, Dante, Joe L., and many others who shared the journey. He ended by calling their memories “unforgettable.”
Naomi Raine echoed similar feelings in her own Instagram post but added a deep sense of peace and gratitude. “This journey has changed me forever,” she wrote. “I have no regrets—the highs and lows, the lessons, all of it. I’ve grown in my faith, my understanding of people, and in knowing myself. Those lessons will stay with me for life.”
Founded in Atlanta, Georgia, Maverick City Music burst onto the gospel scene in 2019 with the release of two extended plays. The group became a powerful force in reshaping the sound of contemporary gospel—known for its emotion-driven lyrics and collaborative approach. Songs like “Jireh” and “Promises” became modern worship anthems, co-led by Moore and Raine, helping the group earn Grammy Awards and international recognition.
But lately, Maverick City’s harmony hasn’t just been musical. Behind closed doors, serious disputes have emerged. Chandler Moore has reportedly filed a lawsuit against the group’s co-founder and his former manager, Norman Gyamfi. The legal complaint accuses Gyamfi of misusing managerial powers, withholding royalty payments, and even forging signatures on official documents. It’s a move that has left fans and industry insiders divided—was this conflict inevitable, or could the band’s success have been preserved with better internal management?
While fans process the news of Moore and Raine’s exits, one thing is certain: their impact on Maverick City Music, and on gospel music as a whole, is undeniable. As they both embark on new creative paths, the big question remains—can Maverick City keep its signature sound and spirit alive without two of its most influential voices?
What do you think about their departure? Do you believe it’s a natural progression in their careers, or do the unfolding legal battles paint a more complicated picture? Let’s talk about it in the comments—this is one gospel breakup that no one saw coming.
