*Charlotte, North Carolina will take center stage for gospel music this summer as the Spectrum Center prepares to host the taping of the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards on August 15. Central City Productions, led by founder Don Jackson, is bringing the celebration to the Queen City under the theme “Feels Like Home.”
Gospel powerhouse Kirk Franklin has been tapped to return as host, bringing his trademark energy to an evening that promises performances, tributes and special honors for both established legends and emerging talent. Franklin, who has accumulated 45 Stellar Awards and 20 Grammy wins throughout his career, expressed enthusiasm about the role. “It is truly an honor to return as host of the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards,” he said. “I’m excited to join the gospel music family in Charlotte as we celebrate another historic year of excellence, innovation and ministry through song.”
On the nominations front, John P. Kee and Kim Person are tied at the top with seven nods apiece. Six nominations each went to Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise. Rounding out the upper tier with five nominations each are Jekalyn Carr, Lisa Knowles Smith and The Brown Singers, and Vincent Bohanan and SOV. Recognition will be handed out across 31 categories, with an additional six Gospel Radio categories also on the docket.
Don Jackson spoke to the significance of the milestone. “For more than four decades, the Stellar Awards have honored the artists, songwriters, musicians, and visionaries whose faith-filled contributions have shaped culture and touched lives around the world,” he said. “We proudly celebrate the enduring legacy of gospel music while embracing the next generation of voices who will carry its message forward for years to come.”
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Fans looking to extend the experience beyond the main taping can take part in the Stellar Plus Experience, a four-day slate of events from August 12 through 15 featuring comedy, fitness, vendor shopping, master classes and live music. A separate Pre-Show and Gospel Radio Awards event is set for August 14 at the Carolina Theatre. Procter and Gamble, Chevrolet, Walmart, Johnson and Johnson, and AT&T are among this year’s presenting sponsors. Ticket information is available at StellarAwards.com.
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