Gospel Powerhouse Dianna Hobbs Makes Triumphant Return with New Single After Brain Trauma
After more than a decade-long hiatus from music and five-year recovery from a traumatic brain injury, gospel powerhouse Dianna Hobbs reemerges with her soul-stirring new single, "Don't Know Why," set for release on September 27.
By Amy Bertinelli // Gospel // EEW Magazine
Dianna Hobbs makes her triumphant return to gospel music with the release of her new single, "Don't Know Why," Friday, September 27, 2024 (Courtesy: IndieBuzz Music/SNK Photography)
In more than a decade since Dianna Hobbs, the critically acclaimed gospel powerhouse, stepped back from the music spotlight, anticipation for her return has only intensified among her supporters. Known for her soaring soprano and soul-stirring lyrics, Hobbs has been celebrated in the Western New York region and beyond as one of the most gifted songwriters and vocalists in gospel music, drawing comparisons to Tasha Cobbs, Tamela Mann, and CeCe Winans.
Now, she's poised to make a triumphant comeback with her highly anticipated single, "Don't Know Why," a deeply personal testimony of her faith and perseverance in the face of a life-altering health crisis.
It releases Friday, September 27 on Apple Music and other digital retailers.
(Courtesy: IndieBuzz Music/SNK Photography)
Hobbs' musical dreams seemed shattered five years ago when a life-threatening allergic reaction to the antibiotic Bactrim triggered a series of medical emergencies. Those four terrifying days in ICU, the nearly 30 seizures in a row, the numbness on her left side, the shifted vocal cords and tongue, the struggle to swallow or form complete sentences – the very foundations of her being were shattered. A traumatic brain injury and a ministroke left her with vocal damage and mental health struggles she had never encountered before. Her team was forced to cancel all appearances as Hobbs stepped away from ministry altogether to focus on her recovery—a journey she candidly shares with her loyal fanbase.
But now, with "Don't Know Why," she’s ready to step back into the spotlight, her voice and spirit stronger than ever. The song, born out of her battle with PTSD, panic attacks, and the loss of her voice, marks a powerful reemergence for the artist and an inspiring chapter in her journey.
In a heartfelt blog post on her popular site, Your Daily Cup of Inspiration, Hobbs shares the song teaser and reflects on the devastating period that nearly stole her ability to sing—and her determination to reclaim not just her voice, but her purpose.
“Music has always been my refuge, but during those dark days, I could barely whisper, let alone sing,” she wrote. “I didn’t know if I’d ever be able to do what I feel called to do again. But in that valley, God gave me a song. 'Don’t Know Why’ came to me when I was at my lowest point, reminding me that even when life makes no sense, His love never fails.”
The single, produced by her brother, Andre Brinson of Out-D-Ordinary Productions, and mixed by Grammy-winning engineer Jon Blass, is a soulful, anthemic declaration of faith. “Working with Dianna is an honor,” Brinson said. “She is anointed and gifted. Her song, ‘Don’t Know Why,’ captured my heart the minute I heard it. I am humbled to lend my gift to her powerful ministry. Even though she is my sister, I respect her artistry and regard her as one of the finest singer-songwriters anywhere.”
“Don’t Know Why” blends polished production with Hobbs' signature powerhouse vocals, resonating with listeners both sonically and spiritually. “This song is a demonstration of God’s love and faithfulness,” Hobbs said. “It’s my prayer that when people hear it, they’ll be reminded that no matter what they’re facing, they can still trust in God’s sovereignty and compassion and release a praise even in the midst of the storm.”
Hobbs, who has previously opened for gospel greats like CeCe Winans, Kierra Sheard, and Kirk Franklin, and graced Billboard’s Top 10 gospel compilations, is no stranger to the stage. Her return to music marks a powerful new chapter in a career that has always been defined by transparency, faith, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting her audience.
With her new single set to release on Friday, September 27, Hobbs is poised to reintroduce herself to the gospel world in a way that’s both deeply personal and universally inspiring. “Don’t Know Why” is more than just a comeback—it’s an inspiring example of overcoming adversity with faith despite the odds. As the beloved vocalist prepares to step back into the spotlight, her dedicated fans and newfound supporters alike eagerly await the opportunity to experience her gift once again.
