Gaither Music Group Celebrates Wins At The 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards
Gaither Music Group is proud to celebrate two wins at the 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards: Jordan Smith received Inspirational Album of the Year for The People’s Hymnal (producers: Tommy Sims and Colin Linden), and The Isaacs received Bluegrass/Country/Roots Album of the Year for Praise & Worship (More Than A) Hollow Hallelujah (producers: Ben Isaacs, The Isaacs). In addition, Sonya Isaacs Yeary served as a presenter during the show.
Beyond the wins, Gaither Music Group artists and releases were recognized across multiple categories: Chris Blue—who presented at the pre-telecast—was nominated for Southern Gospel Album of the Year for Foundations: The Hymns of My Heart (producers: Kevin Williams, Matthew Holt); the Gaither Vocal Band was nominated for Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year for “Love ’Em Where They Are” (writers: Benjamin Gaither, Tim Schoepf); The Isaacs earned a nomination for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year with “(More Than A) Hollow Hallelujah” (songwriters: Ben Isaacs, Lily Isaacs, Rebecca Isaacs Bowman, Sonya Isaacs Yeary); Joseph Habedank was nominated for Southern Gospel Album of the Year for I’m Free: Songs That Wrote My Story (producers: Kevin Williams & Matthew Holt); Mark Lowry was nominated for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Album of the Year for There Is Hope (producer: Ben Isaacs); and the Gaither Gospel Series’ Sweet Hymns of Fellowship (producer: Bill Gaither) was nominated for Christmas/Special Event Album of the Year.
On The People’s Hymnal, Jordan Smith revisits and reimagines formative songs from his life and faith, delivering a dynamic, gospel-rooted set. The project also inspired a live performance TV special filmed at Bill Gaither’s historic studios—an extension of the album’s intimate, testimony-driven spirit.
“The vision for this album was a gift from God, and it has been a joy to see so many people connect with these timeless hymns in a new way,” said Smith. “My heartfelt thanks goes out to the Gospel Music Association, the Gaither Music team, my Macklam Feldman Management family, and all of the fans that have allowed me to continue this dream of making music for the last ten years.”
The Isaacs’ Praise & Worship (More Than A) Hollow Hallelujah continues the family’s tradition of harmony-rich, roots-forward worship, reflecting the group’s deep connection to the church and the stage. Their song “(More Than A) Hollow Hallelujah” further underscores the collection’s stirring messages and musicianship, honoring both the legacy and ongoing creative momentum of the band, who are GMA Hall of Famers and Grand Ole Opry members.
“We are filled with awe and gratitude for this honor!” shared The Isaacs. “This album, More Than A Hollow Hallelujah, was born out of some of the most unknown yet trusting seasons of our lives. To see it connect with others and be recognized in this way is a reminder that God truly uses every valley for His glory. We recorded these timeless, beautiful songs to try to encourage others to praise their way through pain to peace. No matter what the storm, true worship always works miracles. We dedicate this to everyone who has ever sung a hallelujah through their tears.”
GMA Hall of Fame members the Gaither Vocal Band brought their hallmark blend of powerhouse vocals and heartfelt ministry to the telecast with their performance of “Love ’Em Where They Are,” featured on SHINE.
“The evening was a celebration of songs and stories that point people to hope,” said Paul Sizelove, President, Sun Label Group. “Our artists carry that mission with excellence. We’re grateful to the GMA and our peers for recognizing their work and to the fans who continue to champion this music.”
The 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards were held October 7, 2025, at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and aired exclusively on TBN and the TBN+ App, with a re-broadcast planned for Friday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET.
