Gospel music’s brightest stars came together at the prestigious Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville for the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, a night filled with faith, praise and unforgettable performances.
Hosted by BeBe and CeCe Winans, this year’s Stellars honored excellence across 36 categories while also celebrating four decades of inspiring gospel music.
Big Winners of the Night
Nineteen-time Stellar Award winner Pastor Mike Jr. proved once again why he is one of gospel’s most powerful voices. His project I Got Away EP earned him Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“Amen”), Male Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and several other top honors.
Legendary vocalist CeCe Winans added to her remarkable legacy, winning Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year, Contemporary Female Artist of the Year, and Praise & Worship Album of the Year for More Than This.
Other winners included:
- The Group Fire – Duo/Chorus Group of the Year (About Last Night)
- Adia – New Artist of the Year (On the Way)
- Ricky Dillard – Choir of the Year (When I Think)
- Jason Nelson – Contemporary Album of the Year (You Belong: Live in Durham)
- Dorinda Clark-Cole – Traditional Album of the Year (Determined)
The James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award went to Stellar Awards founder Don Jackson, recognizing his four decades of leadership in shaping gospel music’s biggest night.
On the radio side, honors went to outlets like WBBP 1480 AM Memphis (Top Market of the Year), WXHL Wilmington, DE (Medium Market), and GODRadio1.com (Internet Station of the Year).
K-LOVE on the Red Carpet
K-LOVE’s Crystal Thornton was on hand covering the Stellar Awards Red Carpet, interviewing gospel greats and rising stars as they reflected on their faith, their music, and the historic 40-year milestone of the Stellars.
A Weeklong Celebration
The awards capped off Stellar Plus Week, three days of master classes, comedy showcases, fashion shows, and worship events sponsored by Chevy and Aflac, making Nashville the center of gospel culture and community.
Continuing the Legacy
Founder Don Jackson summed it up best:
“For 40 remarkable years, the Stellar Awards have celebrated not only the music, but the faith, culture, and community that inspire generations.”
The Stellars remain a reminder that gospel music continues to evolve, inspire, and unite believers around the world.
For a full list of winners, visit StellarAwards.com.