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Central City Productions has announced the nominees for the 41st Annual Stellar Awards. The Gospel Music Awards ceremony will be taped live from the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC, on Saturday, August 15, 2025. With electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and special honors recognizing gospel legends and rising stars alike, this year's Stellar Awards theme is "Feels Like Home." Kirk Franklin Returns as Host for the 9th Time Gospel legend Kirk Franklin will host the show. In addition to having won 45 Stellar Awards and counting, Franklin has hosted the ceremony nine times. He hosted for the first time alongside Donnie McClurkin and Yolanda Adams in 2000 and has reprised his role on eight additional occasions, including a back-to-back stint in 2018, 2019, and 2020. RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards RELATED: 39th Annual Stellar Awards: The Greatest Night in Gospel John P. Kee & Kim Person Tie for Top Nominations John P. Kee and Kim Person lead all nominees with seven nominations each, followed closely by Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise with six nominations apiece. Jekalyn Carr, Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers, and Vincent Bohanan & SOV each received five nominations. In a milestone moment, Tyscot Records, the oldest operating African American-owned gospel label in the world, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with 19 nominations across its affiliated acts, including Darrel Walls, PJ Morton, Melvin Crispell, John P. Kee, and Brandon Camphor & One Way. RELATED: 2025 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Honors John P. Kee The 41st Stellar Awards will honor this year's best and brightest in gospel music. View the complete list of nominations across 37 categories below: Artist of the Year Darrel Walls; Heart of Mine; Tyscot Records / Gumbo Studios Jekalyn Carr; Jekalyn X The Legends; Waynorth Music Kim Person; Reflections; Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Tasha Cobbs Leonard; TASHA; Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Tye Tribbett; Only on the Road (Live); Motown Gospel, Freligious Music Song of the Year “Able” ft. Kim Burrell ~ Paul Sylvester Morton Jr.~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios “Come Jesus Come” ~ Stephen McWhirter, Tara McWhirter, Hank Bentley, and Bryan Fowler ~ Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services “On the Way” Remix ft. Erica Campbell ~ Adia Andrews, Karl Powell, Michael McClure Jr., Jeremy James, Jaicko Raphael Lawrence, Israel Allen, & Erica Campbell ~ Rock City Media Group “Promises (Live)” ~ Alescia Knowles-Smith ~ EvoWorld Entertainment “Your Love” ~ Kim Person ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Album of the Year Heart of Mine ~ Darrel Walls ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent Reflections ~ Kim Person ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise TASHA ~ Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Male Artist of the Year Asaun Bynum ~ True to Him ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment Darrel Walls ~ Heart of Mine ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios John P. Kee ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Jonathan McReynolds ~ Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Tye Tribbett ~ Only on the Road (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Freligious Music Contemporary Male Artist of the Year Darrel Walls~ Heart of Mine ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studio Jonathan McReynolds~ Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Thomas Ware~ The Book of Thomas ~ Blockbuster Records/CHMG Music Group Zacardi Cortez~ Ibhar: The Journey (Chapter 2) ~ Blacksmoke Music Traditional Male Artist of the Year E. Dewey Smith~ Songs Daddy Used To Sing ~ Pebble Street Records Earnest Pugh~ We Wanna See You, Vol 1 Live ~ Blacksmoke Music Worldwide JJ Hairston~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year Adia ~ On the Way EP ~ Rock City Media Group Jekalyn Carr ~ Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Waynorth Music Kim Person ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Lisa Knowles Smith ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Maranda Curtis ~ Worship Restored ~ ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ TASHA ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Contemporary Female Artist of the Year Adia ~ On the Way EP ~ Rock City Media Group Crystal Aikin ~ Lord I Need Your Help ~ Godshand Management Services LLC/Mixed Bag Entertainment Erica Campbell ~ Trust and Obey – London ~ My Block Records Inc. Kim Person ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Nia Allen ~ Lord I Love You ~ Lewis-Kortez Group Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ TASHA ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records Traditional Female Artist of the Year Blanche McAllister-Dykes ~ Words (Donald Lawrence) ~ Platoon Bobbi Lane ~ He Never Failed Me ft. Paul Porter ~ Taylor Music Group K. Jeanette ~ Jesus Is My Friend ft. Shawn Bigby ~ Devine Records Lucinda Moore ~ Someone who cares (the lala song) ft Bishop Paul S. Morton ~ Nalah Music Group/New Day Christian Distributor New Artist of the Year Ablaze ~ Ablaze ~ Independent Asaun Bynum ~ True to Him ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment Bishop Charles Ellis & Greater Grace Worship Choir ~ Graceful Records United Music & Arts Conference Choir ~ Clap Your Hands ft. Beverly Crawford & Craig Hayes ~ High C Traditional Artist of the Year E. Dewey Smith ~ Songs Daddy Used To Sing ~ Pebble Street Records Jekalyn Carr ~ Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Waynorth Music JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Duo/Chorus Group of the Year Asaun Bynum ft. LeekGoHard ~ Jesus I Love You ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment CeCe Winans & Pastor Shirley Caesar ~ Come Jesus Come ~ Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Jason Clayborn x Melvin Crispell III ~ Whatever It Is ~ Jay Clay Music/Tyscot Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Still (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Traditional Duo/ Chorus Group of the Year Brandon Camphor & One Way~ In Christ Alone ~ TOMii Entertainment Darrel Petties & Take 2~ Word ~ Independent Lucinda Moore featuring Bishop Paul S. Morton ~ Someone who cares (the lala song) ~ Nalah MusicGroup/New Day Christian Distributor Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard~ Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year Deitrick Haddon & Voices of Unity ~ Chain Breaker 2.5 ~ ManHaddon Ministries/Tyscot Records Jason Clayborn x Melvin Crispell III ~ Whatever It Is ~ Jay Clay Music/Tyscot Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts ~ Still (Live) ~ Motown Gospel, Life Room Label Mariah Carey (feat. The Clark Sisters ~ Jesus I Do ~ MARIAH/gamma. Red Hands ~ Red Hands ~ Black Suit Music/Anderson Music Group/TAMLA Records Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft. John Legend ~ Church ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records The Group Fire ~ I Can Count on You ~ Jet Records North/East Choir of the Year B. Chase Williams & Shabach ~ Secret Place ~ Millie’s Boy Muzik JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Live in New York ~ Independent Traditional Choir of the Year B. Chase Williams & Shabach ~ Secret Place ~ Millie’s Boy Muzik Bishop Brian D. Moore & The Life Center Choir ~ Always Come Through ~ Independent JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music John P. Kee & New Life ~ Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Contemporary Choir of the Year Ablaze ~ Ablaze ~ Independent Johnny Sanders Featuring Faith on Full ~ A Song ~ Just 1 Global Productions/Johnny Sanders Presents LLC Sounds of Blackness Feat Jamecia Bennett, NUNNABOVE, Atlanta Drum Academy ~ We’re Unstoppable ~ Sounds of Blackness/AtomicK Records Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Live in New York ~ Independent Voices of Fire ~ Ophanim ~ EZ FLO Innovations LLC/PW Music/Warner Records Quartet of the Year Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown ~ Revival: Live in Dallas ~ EvoWorld Entertainment The Flying Clouds of South Carolina ~ Don’t Leave Me ~ Blockbuster Records The Gospel Legends ~ Jesus Is the Man ~ 4Winds/Malaco Records Tim White ~ Help Live in Chicago ~ Independent Producer of the Year Alescia Knowles-Smith & Frederick Perry ~ Revival: Live in Dallas (Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers) ~ EvoWorld Entertainment Donald Lawrence & Cedric Thompson ~ Global Love Alive (London) ~ Platoon Kim Person & Phillip Bryant ~ Reflections ~ Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise PJ Morton ~ Heart of Mine (Darrel Walls) ~ Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Music Video of the Year “I Am Happy” ~ Allen Carr & Jekalyn Carr ~ Waynorth Music “Find Jesus” ~ Deitrick Haddon ~ ManHaddon Ministries/Tyscot Records “You Matter” ~ Maurice Griffin ~ World Changing Entertainment “On the Way Remix” (Adia ft. Erica Campbell) ~ Will Thomas ~ Rock City Media Contemporary Album of the Year Fred Hammond Presents Sensere: The Soul of Future Worship Vol. II ~ Sensere ~ Wrightsound M&E Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent TASHA ~ Tasha Cobbs Leonard ~ Motown Gospel. TeeLee Records The Book of Thomas ~ Thomas Ware ~ Blockbuster Records/CHMG Music Group Traditional Album of the Year Jekalyn X The Legends ~ Jekalyn Carr ~ Waynorth Music Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records The Live Reunion: Washington, DC ~ JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise ~ Motown Gospel, Jamestown Music Throwback: An Evening With John P. Kee Part I; ~ John P. Kee & New Life ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Urban Single or Performance of the Year “Church Parking Lot” ft. Tasha Page-Lockhart ~ Otis Kemp ~ Revive 5.0 Entertainment “Do It Again” ~ Kirk Franklin ~ Fo Yo Soul Recordings/Tribl Records “Jesus I Love You” ~ Asaun Bynum ft. LeekGoHard ~ Blockbuster Records/LRAE Entertainment “Make a Way” ~ VaShawn Mitchell ~ VMan Entertainment/Fair Trade Services “On the Way” Remix ft. Erica Campbell ~ Adia ~ Rock City Media Group “The Light” ~ Jor’Dan Armstrong ~ Jor’Dan Armstrong Music/Lewis-Kortez Group Special Event Album of the Year Bishop S.Y. Younger Presents: Almost Home – A Ramp Record with Friends ~ Bishop S.Y. Younger ~ Ramp Records, Under Exclusive License to MNRK Records LP Live in New York ~ Vincent Bohanan & SOV ~ Independent Sweet, Sweet Spirit ~ Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard ~ Motown Gospel, Blue Note Records Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I ~ John P. Kee & New Life ~ Kee Music Group/Tyscot Records Rap/Hip Hop Gospel Album of the Year All We Like Sheep ~ Childlike CiCi ~ Capitol Christian Music Group, TAMLA Party in Heaven ~ Mike Teezy ~ MTEntertainment, LLC Reconstruction ~ Lecrae ~ Reach Records Walking With Purpose ~ DFG SUL ~ Independent Youth Project of the Year AMG Kidz x Wilson World; Boombox; Anderson Music Group / TAMLA Records Janessa Smith; Lift Him; Inspired Recording Pure N Heart; Alphaeus Anderson Presents Pure N Heart Celebrate Jesus 20yrs; Music2ChangeU Recorded Music Packaging of the Year Brianna Dowd & JJ Hairston – The Live Reunion – Motown Gospel/Jamestown Music Kim Person & JP Designs Art – Reflections – Blockbuster Records/KLP Music Enterprise Octavius Holmes – Jekalyn Carr x The Legends – Waynorth Music PJ Morton – Heart of Mine (Darrel Walls) – Tyscot Records/Gumbo Studios Praise and Worship Album of the Year Coritos Vol. 1; Israel & New Breed; Integrity Music/District 11 Jesus Over Everything (Live in Las Vegas); Naomi Raine; Tribl Records Promises; Todd Dulaney; DulaneyLand Music, FairTrade Services Worship Restored; Maranda Curtis; ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media Praise And Worship Song of the Year “Be Glad” ~ Naomi Raine ~ Tribl Records “Bless Your Name” ~ Maranda Curtis ~ ButterflyWorks/Red Alliance Media “Proverbs 3” ~ Todd Dulaney ~ DulaneyLand Music, FairTrade Services “Your Name” ~ Jovonta Patton ~ Newton Street Entertainment/Integrity Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year “Headphones” ~ Lecrae ft. TI & Killer Mike ~ Reach Records “Move It!” ~ 1K Phew Ft. Forrest Frank & 1K Pson ~ Reach Records “Movin” ~ JustCordell ~ Rock City Media Group “10X My Blessings” ~ Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz ft. Isaac Carree, Jazze Pha, Gaz Money, & Blanco Brown ~ Blacksmoke Music Worldwide HBCU Choir of the Year Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University ft. Damien Sneed & The Levites and Kierra Sheard Kelly Morgan State University Choir NCA&T Fellowship Gospel Choir Southern University Gospel Choir ft. Cameron Blain The Fort Valley State University Choir ft. Loren Michelle & Tiffany Boone Gospel Radio of the Year Nominees Top Market of the Year WPZE Praise 102.5 ~ Atlanta WPZS 102.5 and 610AM ~ Charlotte WFTB 104.1 ~ Nashville WPRS Praise 92.7/95.9 ~ Washington, DC Medium Market of the Year WDEK Columbia’s Praise 95.7|1170 AM ~ Columbia WFMV 96.1FM 620AM ~ Columbia WXHL 89.1 FM Reach Gospel Radio ~ Wilmington KFFH 93.7 FM ~ North Little Rock Small Market of the Year WWDA FM 101.9 ~ Clarksville WRNP 94.1 FM ~ Ft. Wayne WEHA 88.7FM 100.3 ~ Atlantic City WKTT 97.5 FM ~ Salisbury Internet Station of the Year Black Gospel Radio, https://BlackGospelRadio.net Hands Up Radio, https://handsupradio.org WTRC Praise 98.3, https://live365.com/station/a33136 WVTC Detroit, https://wvtcdetroit.com Syndicated Gospel Radio Show of the Year Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell; Erica Campbell with Arlen “Griff” Griffin & Cheryl Jackson The Bobby Parker Show; Bobby Parker The Tracy Morgan Show; Tracy Morgan Willie Moore Jr.; Willie Moore Jr. Gospel Announcer of the Year Anna Johnson; WFLT 1420 AM, Flint, MI Neiko Flowers; WPZE 102.5, Atlanta, GA Pam Dixon; WEAM 100.7, Columbus, GA Trey Nickelson; WBZF-FM – Glory 98.5, Florence, SC

Keith Lee is no stranger to bringing people together, and the first annual Familee Day proved that he can do it on a grand scale. Photo by: John Angelillo/UPI Partnering with Live Nation Urban and Morrow Hospitality, the internet's favorite positive Black family brought a full day of food, music, rides, games, and community to the UNO Lakefront Festival Grounds in New Orleans. The festival featured a largely local vendor lineup, giving New Orleans businesses like Jerk House a platform to shine alongside a few standout out-of-town names like Cleo's Southern Cuisine, LaLa Land, and Trill Burgers. RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards Performances from Kirk Franklin, Andra Day, Gracie's Corner, and more kept the energy high from start to finish, with KevOnStage holding it down as host. Attendees took to social media to share their thoughts on the event. Many described the experience as "one big family reunion." Supporters expressed pride in seeing the continued growth of the Lee family's impact. In several viral clips, Keith Lee can be seen praising during a Gospel performance of "Smile" by Kirk Franklin. RELATED: Erica Campbell Praises Jesus at the 2025 NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors As with most first-year outdoor festivals, there was some constructive feedback. "Parking sucked," noted @kristalterrell on TikTok, a sentiment echoed by several attendees. The no-reentry policy was also flagged as an area for improvement. But those critiques did little to dampen the overall spirit of the day. It's always dope to see believers doing big things and thanking God for their blessings, and Keith Lee is doing exactly that. And if you missed it, don't worry. Keith Lee has already announced that Familee Day 2027 will be taking place in Chicago. Isn't this wholesome?

Usher Raymond garnered a massive reaction, and a well-deserved one at that, when he mentioned his favorite gospel song on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Photo by ImagePress Agency / Depositphoto During the episode that aired on Thursday (September 11) on CBS, the artist shared how spirituality and singing in the church choir helped develop him musically. He expressed that it trained him well, noting that he has an honorary doctorate from Berklee, although he can't read music. The singer named the 1995 classic hit, When Sunday Comes , composed by Donald Lawrence and performed by the late Darly Coley. Social media users gathered in the comment section in support of his song choice, saying things like, "You can't go wrong with Daryl Coley!" RELATED: Paige Bueckers Shares Top 3 Gospel Songs at 2025 WNBA Draft Photo by John Matthew Smith / Creative Commons They say Usher's response was unexpected, but that he has good taste. It's not a song you just happen to know in passing. It's a powerful track that is typically encountered by those who are deeply involved in the church or have a vast appreciation for gospel music. Donald Lawrence, whose Tri-City Singers sang backup on the live recording, joined the comment section to share his thoughts: @blackchurchtok / Instagram Naturally, the juxtaposition of Usher's innocent childhood in the church choir with his adulthood performances caused viewers, as well as the host himself, Stephen Colbert, to wonder, "How did Usher go from  Amazing Grace  to  Nice & Slow ?" RELATED: Michelle Williams Says Her First Kiss & First Fight Were in Church The discussion in the comment section quickly veered from Daryl Coley's musical genius to Usher's salvation. One commenter wrote, "That's cool. Prayerfully, he knows the Lord and gets saved." Photo by Everett Collection/ Shutterstock Coincidentally, a throwback clip of Usher at a decades-old BET event resurfaced. In the clip, the interviewer asks the young performer how he stays grounded, to which he responds, "My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Usher credits friends and family members, such as his mother and grandmother, for his strong Christian upbringing in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His love for gospel music, coupled with the proud proclamations of his faith during his early career, are common characteristics of a church kid. What do you think of his song choice? RELATED: Kai Cenat & Tylil Greet Kirk Franklin at the 2025 BET Awards

The trending and thought-provoking Christian game " And Let the Church Say..."  is bringing your faith and the party to life with topics that will have you shouting "Amen!" or "I Rebuke That". Travis Greene plays the And Let the Church Say Game on the red carpet at the 40th Annual Stellar Awards in Nashville, Tennessee. As Believers, there are certain non-negotiables that we can all agree on. When it comes to the Gospel, salvation, and eternity, we can rely on the word of God to guide our opinions in truth. But it's fun to hear the perspective of friends and family when it comes to things like...how many times the preacher should ask you to turn to your neighbor and say something during a sermon. We played the game with various church congregations in Philadelphia and asked the saints to share their thoughts. When it comes to things like where people should sit in the sanctuary and how many songs we should sing during praise and worship, most people were on one accord. We need unity and support in our congregations--but don't do too much, now! Neiko and Janisse Flowers share their opinions on testimonies and turning to your neighbor during service. Award-winning media personality Neiko Flowers had an interesting take on whether or not churches should add testimony service to the program: "Amen...but just not with social media being recorded. I think that's a problem today. A lot of things that should be private in church [aren't]. It gets to the point where there are things that you can share with your congregation [that are] now maximized to the audience...everybody. I love testimony service because it gets you vulnerable and transparent, but make sure to put some boundaries on it. Basically...the saints want to bring testimony service back...just keep it off the livestream. Find the And Let the Church Say Game here .

(AUG 12) A bittersweet moment! Almost 30 years and 8 albums later, gospel legend Donnie McClurkin has announced that he will be leaving the recording industry. McClurkin's self-titled first album, 'Donnie McClurkin', was released on October 29, 1996. Photo by Marty Jean-Louis / Headlinephotos The vocal powerhouse shared a warmhearted and jubilant video on his social media platform, encouraging his supporters to be on the lookout for a brand new musical project, entitled 'Finally'. He shared that the album will be his final recording, stating, "It is a work of love, saying thank you and farewell to the recording industry for leaving a mark that will glorify God." Social media users took to the comments to express their love and support for the artist and to celebrate his incredible legacy. RELATED: In the Church, We All Fam! Christian Public Figures You Didn't Know Were Related While many are excited to hear new music from Donnie McClurkin and grateful for his lasting musical contribution, he'll be greatly missed in the recording industry. Watch the video below: What do you think about this?

His latest single, 'Smile', pairs a smooth melody with soulful lyrics about love and relationships, reminiscent of R&B hits by legends like Al Green and The Isley Brothers. But DMV-based indie artist Steven Thad has solid roots in the church, and his passion for gospel music runs deep. Courtesy of Steven Thad A Church Kid at Heart Before forming the group 'Trilogy' with his sisters Sierra  and Shante,   Steven and his siblings would often harmonize with each other after choir rehearsals. They had success singing songs like their 2022 single, 'Jesus Loves Me,' and have many fond memories in church. Steven describes himself as a "kid who laughed at everything". He recalls a funny moment when a kid next to him fell asleep during Sunday service. Steven tried his best to catch him, but failed. Though unharmed, the boy's fall made a loud thumping sound that echoed through the quiet sanctuary. He woke up to find all his friends laughing at him after his head hit the wooden pew. Of course, Steven felt bad. But it was moments like this that helped foster a love for the community that a solid church family provides. Like many church kids, Steven was raised in a "Gospel-Only" household. It wasn't until he left for college that he developed an appreciation for other genres of music. Steven Thad's Musical Influences Steven grew up around award-winning musicians like Dana Sorey and Tye Tribbett, and credits them, along with his father, Stephen Leslie, who hung up his drumsticks to pursue a career in accounting, and now works as a successful CPA. "I wouldn't be the musician that I am...if it weren't for Tye, if it weren't for the choir GA, if it weren't for 'Soundcheck'," Steven admits. "I'm so grateful to have grown up in a time when they impressed upon me their innovation. Steven recognizes the impact that these influences had on his development. "What they did has not been replicated to this day. I think that people come close to it, but some things come once in a generation, once in a lifetime, and that was one of those moments. Even as a kid, I knew that." RELATED : Dana Sorey's 50th Birthday Concert Was a Spectacular Praise Party A "Not So Lowkey" Genuis Musicianship isn't the only thing Steven gained from the male examples in his life. He has also achieved extreme academic success. Steven graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. "It sounds complicated, but it's not as complicated as you think it is." Though skilled in both fields, Steven approaches music and science differently. "Doing what I'm doing as a solo artist is harder than bioengineering" , Steven explains. " There was always one answer. When you solve a mathematical equation, you're going to get the same answer each time." However, in Steven's eyes, the music business lacks the same consistency. He considers aspects like last-minute performance changes, posting on social media, and staying relevant to be far more overwhelming. "I think with music it's a lot more dynamic. I had to learn how to adjust" Giving Back to the Community Steven is a fan of early 2000's pop music and draws inspiration from skilled vocalists. He lists artists like Mary Mary and Beyoncé Knowles as examples of experts in their craft. In her 2025 book release, 'Matriarch: A Memoir,' Tina Knowles recounts a memory where she asked her daughter, Beyoncé, and the other members of Destiny's Child to help purchase vans for their church instead of spending all their money on new cars. When asked what he would buy for his church when he earns a big royalty check from his music, Steven responded that a scholarship specifically for Black women in STEM would be ideal. RELATED: 6 Christian Songs Sung by Kelly Rowland That You'll Love RELATED : Michelle Williams Says Her First Kiss & First Fight Were in Church "I know how important college is...and if there's any way that I can contribute to the advancement of my people," Steven states that he understands that higher education has historically been a means for us to get ahead and start building generational wealth for ourselves. "If there's any way I can help us do that, I would." Watch the full interview below:

William Murphy's new album release, 'Payback', will have you believing that God will do just what he said. Can I get an "amen"? Courtesy of Motown Music GRAMMY and Dove Award nominee and Stellar Award winner William Murphy returns with his powerful new live album, Payback (Live). Also known as "The Retribution Record," this body of work offers something for every generation, emphasizing that God ensures justice and restoration for His people. The album seamlessly blends soulful melodies with prophetic declarations,  f eaturing collaborations with artists such as Leandria Johnson and Y’anna Crawley. RELATED: Evvie McKinney & DOE Join Forces on New Anthem of Faith A NEW SOUND Though the album is laced with fresh worship anthems, long-time supporters of Murphy's career will be delighted to find that it includes 'Medley', which highlights new takes on classic hits like 'It's Working', 'Praise is What I Do', and 'Let It Rise'. William Murphy: "Your Next Days are Your Best Days" With its upbeat and declarative lyrics, the first track on the album, ' The Devil Didn't Get Away With It' is an anthem for listeners who are "sick and tired of the devil playing with you". It's the first of 12 uplifting tracks through which Murphy offers encouragement to those who have suffered spiritual attacks on their mental health, finances, or family. Song after song reminds listeners that they haven't seen their best days yet. Photo by Prince WIlliams / ATLpics.net The release of the album's premiere single, 'Double,' debuted in January of this year. It ranked #1 on the Mediabase Gospel Airplay chart. “This song is a testament to God’s faithfulness and His promise to restore and bless beyond measure,” shares William Murphy. “I hope ‘Double’ encourages everyone who hears it to hold on, stay faithful, and trust that greater is coming.” Strength in Mourning The 8th track of the album, 'Good Morning,' features a soulful groove that sings, "the weapon formed but didn't work," and references the latter portion of the Bible verse Psalms 30:5 ,  which reads, 'weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.' The lyrics ring true as a personal testimony of William Murphy, who announced the passing of his brother, Pastor DeJaughn William "Billy" Murphy, who transitioned after being ill for some time. The brothers collaborated on the 2022 release 'WOW', which was featured on Murphy's seventh solo album ' Worship & Justice'. Ministry in Action With over 20 years in ministry, Bishop William Murphy is the senior pastor at The dReam Center Church of Atlanta, alongside his wife, Pastor Danielle Murphy. The church recently led a weekly bible study series, 'Family First' which gives 12 steps to build strong families and better communities. Murphy teamed up with Celebs Give Back for their 2024 Christmas-On-Us Program , which supports families in need during the holiday season. Also an acclaimed author, Murphy’s works, like Praying Through It and the upcoming 52 Days devotional, offer spiritual guidance in worship and prayer. Spotify Album Playlist: YouTube Album Playlist:

I know that's right! Anike is glowing and showing how to walk in God's favor. She won Female Artist of the Year at the 2025 Black Christian Influencers Honors Ceremony, held in Atlanta, GA, on June 19. Photos by Kasim Wheeler for BlackChurchTok, David Mahone for Black Christian Influencers Afterward, she headed to the after-party to teach the saints her new single  'Watch Her Glow. ' The Reach Records artist did all this while being very pregnant and very blessed. Social media users commented in support of the artist, saying things like, "You better GLOW girl!" and "She really is like dattttt!" Isn't this impressive? Watch the performance below:

When it comes to dating and marriage, many church girls have strong opinions on whether or not they'd like to end up with a preacher or pastor for a future spouse. 'Stay With Me' songstress and 'The Voice UK' winner Annatoria is no exception. Courtesy of CR8 Agency BlackChurchTok played a round of 'Churchy Never Have I Ever' in the greenroom of the 2nd Annual Black Christian Influencers conference in Atlanta, GA. Annatoria jokingly shared her fondest and funniest church memories. Dating a fellow member of her local church isn't at the top of her concerns at the moment. She'd rather travel the world, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with her future beau. Annatoria has recently moved to Atlanta, and wants to experience a traditional "hand-clapping, foot-stopping" American Black church. Saints, do you think she'll have a good time?

Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac founded UNITUS, a faith-based apparel brand. He shared that the idea for the company came after consulting with his pastor, following Nike’s decision not to re-sign him after he tore his ACL. Photo by Marty Jean-Louis/Alamy Live News Taking his pastor’s advice, Isaac decided to launch his own clothing line, which led to the creation of UNITUS. All UNITUS shoes feature Bible verses, and Isaac’s testimony serves to inspire others to persevere through hardship and trust in God’s guidance. “I put my trust in Christ and put one foot in front of the other,” Isaac told FOX News . RELATED: Paige Bueckers Shares Top 3 Gospel Songs At 2025 WNBA Draft Jonathan Isaac's UNITUS was a sponsor of the 2025 Black Christian Influencers Conference All-Star Games.

Central City Productions has announced the nominees for the 40th Annual Stellar Awards . The Gospel Music awards ceremony will be taped live from the prestigious Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, TN, on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Pastor Mike Jr. and Jason Nelson Tie for Top Nominations Pastors and recording artists Michael McClure Jr. and Jason Nelson were both nominated in nine categories, including Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year. Following closely behind with eight nominations is CeCe Winans, and the Mississippi Mass Choir with six nominations. RELATED : 39th Annual Stellar Awards: The Greatest Night in Gospel The 40th Stellar Awards will honor this year's best and brightest in gospel music. View the complete list of nominations across 36 categories below: ARTIST OF THE YEAR CeCe Winans; More Than This; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Jason Nelson; You Belong: Live in Durham; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records Kenny Lewis & One Voice; The Healing Project; PureSound Muzik Group Pastor Mike Jr.; I Got Away EP; Rock City Media Group Tamela Mann; Live Breathe Fight; TillyMann SONG OF THE YEAR Amen; Michael McClure Jr., Adia Andrews, Terrell Anthony Pettus, Andrea Crouch, & David "DLo" Outing; Pastor Mike Jr.; Rock City Media Group Clap My Way; Fred Jerkins III, Alvin Garrett, & Micah Lee; Micah Lee; Darkchild Gospel/ MicahLeeMusic I Prayed For You (said a prayer); Major Johnson Finley, Brunes Charles, & Jeshua Williams; MAJOR.; NowThatsMAJOR / MNRK That's My King; Taylor Agan, Kellie Gamble, Lloyd Nicks, & Jess Russ; CeCe Winans; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Yahweh ft. Melvin Crispell III; Danni Baylor, Jason Nelson, Jerome Baylor, & Johnnie Huntley Steele III; Jason Nelson; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Chandler Moore; Chandler Moore: Live in Los Angeles; TRIBL Deitrick Haddon; One Night In California; DH Visions Doc McKenzie; Run On; Blockbuster Records/Milbert McKenzie Music Group Jason Nelson; You Belong: Live in Durham; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records Pastor Mike Jr.; I Got Away EP; Rock City Media Group ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR ADIA; On the Way; Rock City Media Group CeCe Winans; More Than This; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Dorinda Clark-Cole; Determined; Malaco Records Karen Clark-Sheard; Still Karen; Motown Gospel Lisa Page Brooks; The Grateful Chant; FlowNeeNee Music DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR Deitrick Haddon ft. Damita & Tasha Page-Lockhart; Hold On 2 Your Faith; ManHaddon Ministries / Tyscot Records FK&M (Fred Hammond, Keith Staten and Marcus Cole); Time Capsule - The Trilogy; 3Brothers/Dare Records Ted & Sheri; You've Been So Faithful (Groove); Ted & Sheri LLC / Black Smoke Music Worldwide The Group Fire; About Last Night; Jet Records North/East NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR ADIA; On the Way; Rock City Media Group Bobbi Lane; Unmatched Grace; Blockbuster Records/ Taylor Music Group Josh Bracy and Power Anointed; Favor; Josh Bracy Muzic Micah Lee; Clap My Way; Darkchild Gospel/ MicahLeeMusic Montrae Tisdale and The Friends Chorale; The Faith Journey; Tisdale Nation Entertainment ALBUM OF THE YEAR I Got Away EP; Pastor Mike Jr.; Rock City Media Group Live Breathe Fight; Tamela Mann; TillyMann More Than This; CeCe Winans; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services The Healing Project; Kenny Lewis & One Voice; PureSound Muzik Group You Belong: Live in Durham; Jason Nelson; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records CHOIR OF THE YEAR Bishop S.Y. Younger; Bishop S.Y. Younger Presents Worship in Brazil; Ramp Records (exclusively distributed by Haus Records) Chicago Mass Choir; Greater Is Coming; New Haven Records Ricky Dillard; When I Think; Motown Gospel The Mississippi Mass Choir; We Still Believe; Malaco Records2024 - 2025 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Dana Sorey; Jason Nelson; You Belong: Live in Durham; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records Fred Hammond, Keith Staten, Marcus Cole, Paul Wright III and Ray Hammond; FK&M (Fred Hammond, Keith Staten and Marcus Cole); Time Capsule - The Trilogy; 3Brothers/Dare Records J. Drew Sheard; Karen Clark-Sheard; Still Karen; Motown Gospel Michael McClure Jr., & David "DLo" Outing II; Pastor Mike Jr.; I Got Away EP; Rock City Media Group Stan Jones, Jerry Mannery, Jerry Smith, & David R. Curry Jr.; The Mississippi Mass Choir; We Still Believe; Malaco Records CONTEMPORARY DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR Deitrick Haddon ft. Damita & Tasha Page-Lockhart; Hold On 2 Your Faith; ManHaddon Ministries / Tyscot Records Red Hands; The Three (EP); Black Suit Music / Anderson Music Group / TAMLA Records Ted & Sheri; You've Been So Faithful (Groove); Ted & Sheri LLC / Black Smoke Music Worldwide The Group Fire; About Last Night; Jet Records North/East TRADITIONAL DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR Brandon Camphor & One Way; Hymn Medley; Tomii Entertainment Men Of Prayze; Live: In The Red; EvoWorld Entertainment, Inc -The Flint Cavaliers; The Fellowship (Psalms 133:1); The Flint Music Group Tim Woodson & The Heirs of Harmony; Try Me; Blackberry/Marxan Records CONTEMPORARY MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Jason Nelson; You Belong: Live in Durham; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records Micah Lee; Clap My Way; Darkchild Gospel/ MicahLeeMusic Pastor Mike Jr.; I Got Away EP; Rock City Media Group Vincent Bohanan; VBSOV Summer Jam; Independent2024 - 2025 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Award Nominees TRADITIONAL MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Bishop Calvin Norton; Hold Me Beyond Rear View EP; Blockbuster Records Brent Jones; Live Your Best Life; JDI Entertainment Earnest Pugh; Worthy Is The Lamb; Blacksmoke Music Worldwide Kenny Lewis; The Healing Project; PureSound Muzik Group CONTEMPORARY FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR ADIA; On the Way; Rock City Media Group Bobbi Lane; Unmatched Grace; Blockbuster Records/ Taylor Music Group CeCe Winans; More Than This; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services DOE; Heart Of A Human; RCA Inspiration / Provident Entertainment Keyla Richardson; Home; Uncle G Records TRADITIONAL FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR Dorinda Clark-Cole; Determined; Malaco Records Lasha Knox; Right There; Blacksmoke Music Worldwide Lisa Page Brooks; The Grateful Chant; FlowNeeNee Music Terri McConnell; He'll Get Me Through This; Royal T Records CONTEMPORARY ALBUM OF THE YEAR Chandler Moore: Live in Los Angeles; Chandler Moore; TRIBL Live Breathe Fight; Tamela Mann; TillyMann Still Karen; Karen Clark-Sheard; Motown Gospel You Belong: Live in Durham; Jason Nelson; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records TRADITIONAL ALBUM OF THE YEAR Determined; Dorinda Clark-Cole; Malaco Records Live in Detroit, Pt 1; The Victorius Army ATL Feat. Vincent Bohanan; Independent The Healing Project; Kenny Lewis & One Voice; PureSound Muzik Group We Still Believe; The Mississippi Mass Choir; Malaco Records URBAN SINGLE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR Amen; Pastor Mike Jr.; Rock City Media Group Clap My Way; Micah Lee; Darkchild Gospel/ MicahLeeMusic I Prayed For You (said a prayer); MAJOR.; NowThatsMAJOR / MNRK Without You ft. Zacardi Cortez; Jevon Dewand and The Trap Starz; Black Smoke Records MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR Amen; Pastor Mike Jr., Tony “Mr.YNOT” Minifield, Drae Rudolph & Kevin “Krispy” Key/Moon Men; Rock City Media Group Deserve To Win; David Mann; TillyMann For My Good; Jekalyn Carr; Waynorth Music Never Be The Same; Deitrick Haddon & Terrance Church; DH Visions TRADITIONAL CHOIR OF THE YEAR Chicago Mass Choir; Greater Is Coming; New Haven Records Christopher L. Ervin & Abraham's Descendants; Recover; CervinMusiq Ricky Dillard; When I Think; Motown Gospel The Mississippi Mass Choir; We Still Believe; Malaco Records CONTEMPORARY CHOIR OF THE YEAR Alphaeus Anderson Presents The USC Upstate Gospel Choir; Already Done; Music2ChangeU Charles Butler & Trinity; Live In Washington DC; Red Alliance Media Johnny Sanders Featuring Faith on Full; Christmas Everyday; Third Century Development Corp/Johnny Sanders Presents, LLC Vincent Bohanan & SOV; VBSOV Summer Jam; Independent2024 - 2025 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Award Nominees TRADITIONAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR Bishop Calvin Norton; Hold Me Beyond Rear View EP; Blockbuster Records Dorinda Clark-Cole; Determined; Malaco Records Earnest Pugh; Worthy Is The Lamb; Blacksmoke Music Worldwide The Mississippi Mass Choir; We Still Believe; Malaco Records SPECIAL EVENT ALBUM OF THE YEAR Bishop S.Y. Younger Presents Worship in Brazil; Bishop S.Y. Younger; Ramp Records (exclusively distributed by Haus Records) Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album; CeCe Winans; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Red & Green; Jonathan McReynolds; Life Room Label, Motown Gospel The Gift Deluxe Edition; The Group Fire; Jet Records North/East We Still Believe; The Mississippi Mass Choir; Malaco Records RAP/HIP HOP GOSPEL ALBUM OF THE YEAR Canton Jones and CAJO Records Presents The Free Life Experience; The Free Life Experience; CAJO Records Let Go Let God: The EP; 1K Phew; Reach Records Meet Me in Miami; Otis Kemp; Revive 5.0 Entertainment Without You: There Would Be No Me; Jevon Dewand and The Trap Starz; Black Smoke Records YOUTH PROJECT OF THE YEAR AMG Kidz x Boston Arts Academy; The Kidz At North Station; Anderson Music Group / TAMLA Records Brent Jones presents The Fire; Brent Jones presents The Fire; JDI Entertainment Janessa Smith; Sounds Of Joy; Inspired Recording Nina Symmone & Noah Alexander; God's Way; The Big Moment / Anderson Music Group QUARTET OF THE YEAR Blest By Four; Only Believe The EP; EvoWorld Entertainment, Inc Men Of Prayze; Live: In The Red; EvoWorld Entertainment, Inc The Flint Cavaliers; The Fellowship (Psalms 133:1); The Flint Music Group Tim Woodson & The Heirs of Harmony; Try Me; Blackberry/Marxan Records RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR Covered Vol. 1; Brianna Dowd & Melvin Crispell III; RCA Inspiration, Provident Label Group LLC Meet Me in Miami; Blair Monique; Revive 5.0 Entertainment Red & Green; Jonathan McReynolds & Trent Nicholson; Life Room Label, Motown Gospel Still Karen; Justin Foster; Motown Gospel PRAISE AND WORSHIP ALBUM OF THE YEAR Chandler Moore: Live in Los Angeles; Chandler Moore; TRIBL More Than This; CeCe Winans; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services One; Jordan G. Welch; JordiG Music You Belong: Live in Durham; Jason Nelson; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records PRAISE AND WORSHIP SONG OF THE YEAR Light in a Dark Place; Bobbi Lane; Blockbuster Records/ Taylor Music Group Overflow ft. Todd Dulaney; Transformation Worship; Represent Records, Re: Think Music That's My King; CeCe Winans; Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services Yahweh ft. Melvin Crispell III; Jason Nelson; Jaelyn Song / Tyscot Records RAP/HIP HOP SONG OF THE YEAR Amen; Pastor Mike Jr.; Rock City Media Group Blessings; Otis Kemp; Revive 5.0 Entertainment Fa REAL... Fa Real; Jevon Dewand and The Trap Starz; Black Smoke Records Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah ft. Lisa Page Brooks; Dante' Pride; iAmDantePrideMuzik GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR NOMINEES TOP MARKET OF THE YEAR WBBP 1480 AM, Memphis, TN WBGX 1570 kHz, Chicago, IL WFTB FM 104.1, Nashville, TN WGRB 1390AM, Chicago, IL WPZS 100.9, Charlotte, NC MEDIUM MARKET OF THE YEAR WAGR 102.5 FM, Lexington, MS WEUP Worship 94.5, Huntsville, AL WJNI 106.3FM, Charleston, SC WXHL 89.1 FM, Wilmington, DE SMALL MARKET OF THE YEAR WBZF-FM 98.5, Florence-Myrtle Beach, SC WHLH 95.5, Jackson, MS WKTT 97.5 FM, Salisbury, MD WTSK – Praise 93.3/ 790 AM, Tuscaloosa, AL INTERNET STATION OF THE YEAR Black Gospel Radio, https://BlackGospelRadio.net GODRadio1.com , https://godradio1.com Hands Up Radio WHUR, https://handsupradio.org/ Power of Worship Radio, https://powerofworship.net SYNDICATED GOSPEL RADIO SHOW OF THE YEAR Early Morning Praise Party with Sherry Mackey; Sherry Mackey Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell; Erica Campbell with Griff & Cheryl Jackson The Big Redd Radio Show; Big Redd The Tracy Morgan Show; Tracy Morgan GOSPEL ANNOUNCER OF THE YEAR Destiny Diggs; WXHL – Reach Gospel Radio/ Say So Radio Show with Destiny Melissa Wade; WNNL, The Light 103.9/ Melissa Wade in the Midday Micha "ML6" Logan; WEUP, 103.1 FM/The Midday Shift Sherry Mackey; WHAL, 95.7 Hallelujah FM/ Early Morning Praise Party with Sherry Mackey

Fans are anticipating a future collaboration after watching streamers Kai Cenat and Tylil enthusiastically greet the legendary Kirk Franklin on the red carpet at the 2025 BET Awards. Photo by Greg Grudt/UPI One Instagram user mentioned that Kai " said 'Don't leak.' They met and cooking up something." . This suggests that Kirk Franklin will appear on an upcoming Kai Cenat stream. RELATED: Kirk Franklin Joins the Set of 'Churchy' Watch the exchange below: It looked like a family reunion when Kai Cenat and Tylil spotted Kirk Franklin on the red carpet. Kai left his interview to greet Kirk, who was honored with the BET Ultimate Icon Award, but seemingly returned to the journalist after the encounter. In the video, it appeared as though the journalist didn't want Kai to leave, but instead wanted to bring Kirk over to their interview to avoid cutting her conversation with Kai short, and possibly for her capture the viral moment on her footage. @dereckthediplomat on Instagram stated that it "could've been the interview of her life." Although the iconic exchange took place out of her camera's view, the journalist still made a significant contribution to the moment. Her hesitancy to let Kai leave encouraged him to express his excitement to speak with Kirk Franklin more adamantly, which added to the relatability of the clip. RELATED: Kai Cenat Praises God & Breaks Twitch Sub World Record Kirk shared a warm embrace with both Kai and Tylil, stating that he was proud of them. It was a full-circle moment after the creators sang his 2005 hit "Looking For You" on a previous livestream with more than 150,000 viewers watching at one time. RELATED : Kyrie Irving Sings Gospel Music On Kai Cenat's Stream