Posted by | Ray Cornelius
BET has announced that Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson will host this year’s 14th Annual Celebration of Gospel. The noted actress is replacing comedian Steve Harvey, who served as show’s host for for 13 years.
“I am thrilled to join the BET “Celebration of Gospel” family. I look forward to a great evening of incredible music and continuing the rich history of BET and gospel music which started 14 years ago hosted by the talented and very funny Steve Harvey,” said Henson.
This year’s show promises a cool mix of contemporary gospel artists with some of today’s hottest R&B singers including Idol winner Ruben Studdard, Sunday Best winner LeAndria Johnson, SWV, India.Arie, Rance Allen Group and Jonathan McReynolds.
There will also rousing performances from gospel music superstars like Donnie McClurkin, VaShawn Mitchell and Tye Tribbett along with R&B Divas’ Chanté Moore and Grammy winner Lalah Hathaway. Gospel music pioneer Richard Smallwood will be honored and along with tributes from Pastor Shirley Caesar and Dr. Bobby Jones.
Audience members will experience spirit-filled performances from Yolanda Adams, Erica Campbell, Hezekiah Walker, Tamela Mann, Tasha Cobbs, Detrick Haddon, J.J. Hairston, Sunday Best Season 6 winner Tasha Page-Lockhart and current Idol winner Candice Glover. Additionally, R&B music legend Charlie Wilson will share his testimony in a sanctified song titled “If I Believe” that’s sure to shift the atmosphere.
“Since its’ inception, ‘Celebration of Gospel’ has brought together the best voices from both the secular and gospel music worlds to give praise like only they can,” said President of Music Programming & Specials, Stephen Hill for BET Networks. “This year is no exception because at the end of the day, everyone’s roots are in gospel music. A gathering of powerful singers like these on one show can only happen on BET.”
BET’s annual gospel music special, “Celebration of Gospel” tapes Saturday, March 15, 2014 at 7 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles, CA, and will premiere on Sunday, April 6, 2014 at 8 p.m./EST.
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