Grammy Nod a Thrill for Trio of Fil-Am Artists
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Jesse Barrera, Jeff Bernat, Tim Atlas (left to right) on the red carpet at the 67th Grammy Awards. (Photo by Jeff Bernat)
The trio’s nomination for Best Gospel Performance/Song for their contribution to Holy Hands, a track by contemporary gospel artist DOE, places their work at a unique intersection of genres, bridging R&B, gospel, and soul. Though they did not take home the award, DOE’s album, Heart of a Human, featuring their work, won Best Contemporary Christian Album, an achievement that underscores the collaborative nature of their artistry.
For independent musicians who built their careers outside the traditional framework of major labels, this recognition is more than just an industry accolade—it is also a validation of years of dedication and a reflection of growing opportunities in today’s industry. Reflecting on the moment, Jesse recalled his initial disbelief: “It’s the kind of thing you dream about. It feels like a fever dream where you think, ‘One day, I’ll be nominated for a Grammy.’”
Their journey to the Grammys began in 2018, when Jeff, Jesse, and Tim first collaborated on Wrong About Forever, released on Valentine’s Day in 2019. “That’s probably my most successful record ever,” Jeff shared. “And five years later, DOE’s team sampled it for Holy Hands. That’s why we’re here. It’s crazy how things work.”
Tim Atlas, Jeff Bernat, Jesse Barrera (left to right) in 2018. (Photo by Jesse Barrera)
Their presence at the Grammy Premiere Ceremony–where most of the awards–were presented was a pivotal and inspiring moment. As they took their seats, they heard their song being played in the theater, highlighting the magnitude of their achievement. “Sunday blessings,” Jeff proclaimed.
Tim recalled the moment they learned of the nomination. “Jesse FaceTimed Jeff first, then me. We were all in disbelief. We were all like, ‘What?!” Jesse added, “It was like a “stars aligning” moment. We’ve been trying to manifest things for a while. I felt like if I was ever going to be nominated for a Grammy, it would be with these two guys.”
Jeff reflected, “We’ve watched the Grammys since childhood, never imagining that one day we’d be here. This experience is already a victory.” Tim added, “Practicing gratitude is essential. I’m deeply honored to share this moment with friends who have been grinding alongside me for over a decade.”
Tim Atlas, Jeff Bernat, Jesse Barrera (front left to right) with musicians Joel Cowell (keys) and Amir Oosman (drums) at The Echo in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Andrew Rose)
Each artist has carved a distinct path. Jesse Barrera, a sought-after producer and songwriter, has shaped the sound of emerging artists while building his own solo discography. Jeff Bernat, known for his smooth vocals and dedicated international fanbase, is currently working on a full-length album. Tim Atlas, whose sound blends indie and alternative influences, recently released his latest project, Enchanté. While their styles differ, their shared Filipino American identity and dedication to artistic excellence unite them.
Their journey to the Grammys began in 2018, when Jeff, Jesse, and Tim first collaborated on Wrong About Forever, released on Valentine’s Day in 2019.
Jesse Barrera, Jeff Bernat, and Tim Atlas (left to right) at the Grammy Nominee Reception at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris)
Their nomination places them in a broad historical lineage of Filipino American artists who have impacted the Grammys. From Larry Ramos, the first Filipino American and Asian American Grammy winner in 1963, to today’s generation of Filipino artists making inroads into mainstream music, their success adds to an evolving legacy.
With the Recording Academy’s recent diversity and inclusion efforts, the industry is undergoing a pivotal transformation. This nomination affirms that Filipino American artists are not only part of this shift but are also actively shaping the future of music. Their story is a testament to perseverance, artistic integrity, and the power of community, a narrative that will continue to inspire future generations of Filipino artists.
Christina Luna is a music executive, an advocate for the Global Asian music industry, and author of forthcoming book, The Movement, a narrative on 1990s Filipino American music. She is a Governor on the Recording Academy San Francisco Chapter Board.
