Posted by | Ray Cornelius
Gospel music’s biggest and brightest stars gathered last night for the 28th Annual Stellar Awards.
The live telecast, which aired on GMC, was hosted by dynamic duo Mary Mary and Grammy-winning songwriter Kirk Franklin (pictured above).
Meet the Brown actress Tamela Mann, performed her hit single “Take Me to the King.” The Kurt Carr Singers teamed up with the “Prince of Praise” Byron Cage for a salute to James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Kurt Carr while Sunday Best alum Le’Andrea Johnson delivered a rousing performance after winning the Best New Artist award. The evening also featured soul-stirring performances by Israel Houghton, Marvin Winans, Donnie McClurkin and Tye Tribbett, who opened the show. Dr. Bobby Jones, Kim Burrell, Rance Allen, Andraé Crouch and VaShawn Mitchell were all presenters.
However, the night belonged to Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago who picked up five wins including Choir of the Year and Song of the Year. Fan favorite Marvin Sapp also picked up four awards for his album, “I Win” including Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.
Other highlights included Pastor Shirley Caesar’s tribute to the late Inez Andrews of The Caravans. She performed a moving rendition of “Mary Don’t You Weep” along with original Caravan singers Deloris Washington and Dorothy Norwood.
Bishop T.D. Jakes was also recognized for 35 years of global ministry and his notable presence in Hollywood with the Thomas A. Dorsey Notable Achievement Award. Bishop Jakes’ entertainment division has backed such Hollywood hits films as Jumping the Broom and last year’s remake of Sparkle, starring the late Whitney Houston.
The two-hour show was held at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN.
Click here for a full list of winners and check out some photos from the show:
Le’Andria Johnson receiving her first Stellar Award
Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago was the night’s biggest winner
Kurt Carr is this year’s James Cleveland Lifetime Award Recipient
Pastor Marvin L. Winans performing “Let the Church Say Amen”
Photography Credit: Getty Images