Central City Productions announced the first wave of performers and special honorees for the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, hosted by Kirk Franklin. Under this year’s theme, “Feels Like Home,” gospel music’s greatest night will bring together the genre’s most celebrated artists, trailblazers, and rising stars for an unforgettable evening of worship, inspiration, and world-class performances. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Spectrum Center. Tickets are available now at StellarAwards.com.

The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will deliver an unforgettable night of music and celebration with an all-star lineup of performances from Aaron Cole, Childlike CiCi, Darrel Walls, Kierra Sheard, Jekalyn Carr, Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz featuring Isaac Carree and Jazze Pha, JustCordell, John P. Kee, Le’Andria Johnson, Lisa Knowles-Smith & The Brown Singers, Melvin Crispell III, PJ Morton, Tye Tribbett featuring ABLAZE, and Vincent Bohanan & SOV.

Spanning traditional gospel, contemporary worship, choir music, and genre-blending collaborations, this year’s performance lineup reflects the depth, diversity, and continued evolution of gospel music while celebrating the artists who are inspiring audiences around the world through faith, excellence, and powerful musical ministry.

This year’s ceremony will also recognize two of gospel music’s most influential voices with special honors celebrating their extraordinary impact on the genre. Tasha Cobbs Leonard will be presented with the Aretha Franklin Icon Award, honoring her remarkable career, global influence, and powerful legacy as one of the most transformative worship leaders and recording artists of her generation.

Additionally, Pastor Mike Jr. will receive the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award, recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to gospel music, chart-topping success, and unwavering commitment to expanding the reach of the Gospel through innovation and ministry. Together, these prestigious honors celebrate two artists whose music, leadership, and faith continue to inspire millions around the world.

“This honor means more to me than I can fully express. Gospel music has given me a place to share my faith, my testimony, and every part of my journey, and I have never taken that privilege lightly. To receive the Aretha Franklin Icon Award is deeply humbling, not only as a celebration of what God has allowed me to accomplish, but also as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with this platform. I’m grateful to my family, my team, the gospel community, and every person who has allowed this music to become part of their lives,” shares Tasha Cobbs Leonard.

Pastor Mike Jr., shares, “I’m truly honored to receive the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award. This recognition is bigger than me, it’s a testament to God’s faithfulness and the incredible people who have supported this journey. I pray my music and ministry continue to inspire hope, faith, and purpose for generations to come.”

The 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards proudly recognizes Procter & Gamble (P&G) as the event’s Title Sponsor. General Motors/Chevrolet serves as the Presenting Sponsor of the Artist of the Year Award, while Walmart is the Presenting Sponsor of the Song of the Year Award. Tide proudly presents the HBCU Choir of the Year Award, and Olay serves as the Presenting Sponsor of the Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year Award.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital joins this year’s celebration in honoring Tasha Cobbs Leonard as the recipient of the prestigious Aretha Franklin Icon Award. Additional support is provided by Walt Disney World Resort, AT&T, Johnson & Johnson, Rhythm and Rise Cruise, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), Mecklenburg County, WBTV and Praise 102 Charlotte.

The 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Producer and Executive in Charge of Production; Michael A. Johnson as Producer and Director, Erin Johnson-Pressley as Talent Producer, and Daniel Moore as Music Director.

The Greatest Night in Gospel Music, The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will premiere on The Stellar Network, available on Charter Spectrum and Verizon Fios, with the broadcast debuting on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. ET with an encore presentation at 10 p.m. EST (check your local provider for channel availability).

The celebration will make its national cable premiere on BET on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. ET and 10:30 p.m. ET before expanding to audiences nationwide through broadcast television syndication from September 5 through September 27, 2026. In Charlotte, WBTV (CBS) will serve as the local television broadcast partner. Bounce TV will air the ceremony on Saturday, September 5 at 1:00 p.m. ET.

The 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards taping tickets are available now at stellarawards.com. A full list of the 41st annual nominees can be found on the official Stellar Awards website. For more information, please visit stellarawards.com and join the conversation using the hashtag #TheStellars.

On Tuesday, July 21, it was announced that Canadian worship leader and songwriter Brian Doerksen passed away after battling Stage 4 cancer.

Doerksen was a pioneering voice in modern worship music and best known for songs including, “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship,” “Refiner’s Fire (Purify My Heart),” “Faithful One,” and many more.

Brian’s compositions transcended denominations and genres to greatly impact both the church and modern worship music today.

After he passed away peacefully at home, Brian’s wife Joyce shared this message on her social media:

“On July 21st, at 6:45 AM, our beloved Brian passed away peacefully in his sleep at his family home, surrounded by those who loved him most… Till the very end, Brian continued to love those around him, encouraging them in who they are, and shared incredible gratitude to those in the medical field who tried their best to help him. He was a beacon of light even in his final moments.”

Doerksen is survived by his wife, Joyce, and six children, and his contribution to Christian and gospel music will always be remembered.

The 40 Days of Christian Music festival returns next week for its sixth consecutive year at the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Drawing tens of thousands of guests from around the world to northern Kentucky, this huge event, July 28 — September 5, features dozens of prominent Christian performers and speakers for an unforgettable experience. This year sees the addition of Jeremy Camp, Grammy Award nominee and winner of five GMA Dove Awards.

Attendees can not only explore two of America’s best-known Christian attractions (the life-size Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter and high-tech Creation Museum, near Cincinnati) but also enjoy live performances from some of the biggest names in Christian music in state-of-the-art facilities — creating an atmosphere where faith and music come together in a meaningful way.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of remarkable in Christian music. Artists joining Camp include CAIN, Crowder, Passion, Matthew West, Jamie MacDonald, Jon Reddick, Cochren & Co., David Phelps, Tasha Layton, Jason Crabb, Triumphant Quartet, Karen Peck & New River, Mark Trammell Quartet, The Isaacs, The Inspirations, Gold City, and Joseph Habedank, among many others. In total, more than 100 artists will take the stage throughout the 40-day event with performances every day, except Sundays.

All concerts are included free with admission to the attractions. Annual passes are available and include unlimited admission to the Ark and Creation Museum, as well as free parking, for a year — enabling pass-holders to come to as many concerts as they choose at both attractions.

The event is produced by Abraham Productions under the leadership of CEO Ray Flynn. Known for organizing faith-based concerts, conferences, and large-scale gatherings across the country, Flynn shares his heart behind the festival: “I am honored to bring the world’s largest Christian music festival to the top Christian attractions in America. My vision has always been to bring together multiple genres of music to make an eternal impact on people of all ages and backgrounds. We are also blessed to have outstanding speakers like Ken Ham, the visionary behind the Ark, who provide solid biblical teaching and encouragement daily.”

Ham added: “Millions of people across America love the various styles of Christian music we offer at the Ark and Creation Museum, the two top family-friendly Christian themed attractions in the world. Festivalgoers can tour the life-size Ark, explore the beautiful grounds, take their children or grandchildren to the playground and carousel, and meet the zoo animals.”

Ham continued: “I also look forward to reconnecting with Jeremy Camp. I met him at the Creation Museum in 2015 when he and his family took a tour.”

Festival sponsors are Coca-Cola Consolidated, AdelFi Christian Banking, The Savior Brand, Destiny Rescue, Singing at Sea and SingingNews.

Tickets can be purchased through ArkEncounter.com or by calling the Ark Encounter at 800-721-2298.

Abraham ProductionsMORE ABOUT ABRAHAM PRODUCTIONS, INC.:

Abraham Productions, Inc., headquartered in Wilmington, NC, is led by President & Chief Executive Officer Ray Flynn. Abraham Productions produces Singing in The Sun at Myrtle Beach, SC, 40 Days of Christian Music at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Ky., Christian conferences, the Crystal Caribbean Cruises and several other high-quality Christian music events and tours.

Answers in Genesis is an apologetics (i.e., Christianity-defending) ministry based in northern Kentucky, near Cincinnati. For more information about its two northern Kentucky attractions, visit CreationMuseum.org and ArkEncounter.com.

Seacoast Music welcomes singer-songwriter and worship leader Destiny Barber to its artist roster with the release of her first single, “what happened to love.” Blending Christian pop, soul, and singer-songwriter influences, “what happened to love” introduces listeners to Barber’s honest approach to songwriting, one that embraces the beauty, questions, and grace found in everyday life. The song also introduces listeners to Barber’s upcoming full-length project, for ordinary life, arriving September 4.

Rather than focusing on extraordinary moments, Barber’s music points to God’s faithfulness in the ordinary: raising a family, navigating marriage, waiting through uncertainty, and discovering joy amid life’s everyday rhythms.

“what happened to love” is an upbeat, soul-infused song about the tension between claiming to love people and forgetting how to treat them with kindness. With warm vocals, a joyful groove, and honest lyrics, the song asks a simple but timely question: When did being right become more important than loving one another?

Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Barber’s music is shaped by real-life experiences rather than polished perfection. Drawing inspiration from artists including Olivia Dean, Alicia Keys, and Etta James, she combines soulful vocals, warm instrumentation, and conversational lyrics to create songs that feel deeply personal while resonating with listeners from every stage of life.

With the release of “what happened to love” and her signing to Seacoast Music, Barber begins an exciting new chapter, introducing a fresh voice whose music celebrates faith lived out in real life.

Four-time GRAMMY® Award-winning duo for KING + COUNTRY is bringing back the most wonderful tradition of the year with the return of its beloved A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS tour. Following the release of the band’s brand-new Christmas album and theatrical film, DRUMMER BOY, brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone will embark on an 18-arena tour across the United States this holiday season, delivering an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling and celebration.

For fans who have made the tour an annual tradition, and those experiencing it for the very first time, A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS offers an immersive holiday experience unlike any other. Combining breathtaking production, intimate storytelling and powerful performances, the evening celebrates the hope, joy and real meaning of Christmas through music that has become synonymous with the season.

“The most wonderful time of our year is always the one spent with you,” share Joel and Luke Smallbone. “To celebrate the miracle of all miracles, God coming to earth and offering redemption, and to experience that together with audiences across America makes this our favorite tour of the year. We can’t wait to celebrate Christmas with you again.”

Audiences can expect soaring performances of beloved Christmas favorites including the hauntingly beautiful “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and the anthemic “Little Drummer Boy,” alongside original holiday music and fan favorites from throughout the band’s celebrated career. The evening will also feature exclusive moments inspired by the band’s new theatrical film, DRUMMER BOY, creating an even more immersive and memorable Christmas celebration.

Known for its cinematic production, heartfelt storytelling and world-class musicianship, A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS has become one of the season’s premier live events, drawing families and fans together for an evening centered on the hope and wonder of Christmas.

Jamie Rowe, best known for his time as the voice of Guardian, has released God’s Got You, a daily encouragement app available now for iPhone, with an Android version in the works.

The app delivers one encouraging scripture every morning — free, forever — shareable as a designed image card with a single tap. A one-time $4.99 unlock (no subscription, no ads, no accounts) adds the complete Bible in modern English and Spanish, plus “Rowetivation”: 125 original words of encouragement from Rowe, an extension of the Rowetivation clips he shares on social media, including practical Music Tips drawn from his decades in the business.

The entire app works in both English and Spanish — a nod to the Latin American fans who have followed Rowe’s music from the beginning.

“So many people have encouraged me over the years — fans, friends, family,” said Rowe. “This app is my way of returning the favor. One verse, one honest word, every day. Life is good, God is good.”

God’s Got You is available now on the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gods-got-you/id6788834573

IKON Presents has teamed up with Dr. Holly Carter, President & CEO of Relévé Entertainment, to announce “Legends of Gospel: Vegas Residency,” the first Gospel music residency on the Las Vegas Strip this music era!

The opening weekend will feature three of Gospel music’s most celebrated and influential acts sharing a single Strip stage for the first time: the highest-selling female gospel group in history – The Clark Sisters; one of the most honored artists in gospel music, having earned numerous Stellar Awards, Dove Awards and a Grammy – Fred Hammond and multiple Stellar Awards, Dove Award and BET and Grammy Award- nominee – Deitrick Haddon. The historic residency begins October 8 and 9, 2026 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

These October dates mark the first chapter of the residency and a first in this Gospel music era. The “Legends of Gospel” is being built as an ongoing, multi-date concert series, featuring some of the biggest and brightest names in Gospel music, with further performance dates set to be revealed in coming months.

The residency unites IKON Presents’ live event production and promotion expertise with Dr. Holly Carter’s deep relationships across the gospel, faith-based and entertainment worlds. Carter, who has shaped the careers of many of Gospel music’s biggest names, joins IKON Presents as a creative partner in bringing both her industry relationships and her vision for elevating Gospel music, to the Strip’s biggest stages.

“Gospel has never had a true home on the Las Vegas Strip — until now,” said Neal Carter, spokesperson for IKON Presents. “Partnering with Dr. Holly Carter on this residency was essential — her relationships and her vision for Gospel music made this the right team to finally bring this genre to the Strip the way it deserves to be.”

Show Producer and Head of Production for Relevé Entertainment Keesha Brickhouse commented, “Producing the first Gospel residency in more than 60 years is an incredible honor. It’s redefining what’s possible for Gospel music, and I’m excited to be a part of this historic moment.”

Show Creator and Executive Producer, Dr. Holly Carter added, “For years, I have envisioned bringing Gospel to Las Vegas on this scale. To now unite legendary artists in a groundbreaking residency is more than a milestone, it’s a moment. And I thank God for it. I finally get to fully step into my creativity and bring this vision to life.”

A HISTORIC LINEUP

The Clark Sisters — Twinkie, Karen, Dorinda and Jacky Clark — are widely regarded as the most influential family group in gospel music history. Often called “the First Ladies of Gospel,” the Grammy Award-winning quartet pioneered a sound that fused traditional gospel with R&B and pop sensibility, opening the door for contemporary gospel as it’s known today. Their catalog of generation-defining records has shaped decades of artists across gospel and secular music alike.

Fred Hammond – For more than 40 years, music lovers around the world have known Grammy Award Winning artist Fred Hammond as a gifted vocalist, songwriter, musician, producer and arranger.

But as his peers and supporters alike have so reverently declared, he is without debate the architect behind the creation of a phenomenon in Gospel music, Urban Praise & Worship — a genre of gospel music that did not exist prior. As a result, Fred Hammond has become one of the most respected names in the music industry! In fact, Essence Magazine (2017 Collector’s Edition) names Fred Hammond in the esteemed list of the 50 Greatest Male Singers of All Time! Fred Hammond has been hailed as an Inspirational Music Icon whose music STILL reaches people from all walks of life.

Deitrick Haddon – Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, he is renowned for his progressive, contemporary style gospel often blended with R&B, hip-hop, and soul.

He initially rose to prominence leading the Voices of Unity and has since built a highly successful solo career, scoring multiple #1 albums on the Billboard Top Gospel charts. Born to ministerial parents, Haddon began his musical ministry at the age of ten and preached his first sermon at eleven. He first made waves in the industry with albums like Lost & Found (2002), Church on the Moon (2011), and Masterpiece (2015). Beyond his music, he has expanded his reach to include television and film.

Relevé Entertainment is a full-service entertainment company specializing in the development, production, financing, marketing, and strategic positioning of premium faith and family-based film, television, digital media, and live entertainment projects.

IKON Presents is a Las Vegas-based entertainment and events company specializing in live productions, major hip-hop and R&B concerts, artist showcases, and immersive brand activations, it produces high-profile events and cultural experiences.

Summer just got even better. Starting today, Awakening Foundation is bringing back its highly anticipated annual ticket offer, giving fans the chance to experience some of the biggest tours in Christian music for less. From July 15-22, select tickets will be available for just $30 All-In (plus applicable taxes) while supplies last.

With more than the show for less than you’d expect, Awakening Foundation’s annual offer gives fans, families, and friends the opportunity to experience some of the biggest tours in Christian music at an incredible value.

The limited-time offer includes select dates on an incredible lineup of upcoming tours, including K-LOVE Landmarks’ dates, the Halfway Home Tour featuring WE ARE MESSENGERS, Andrew Ripp, and Allison Eide, Zach Williams‘ Revival Nights Tour with Cochren & Co. and Christian Hohn, MercyMe Live 2026 featuring Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley, Tim Hawkins Live, and the highly anticipated TobyMac, THIRD DAY & Chris Tomlin Tour.

Whether fans are looking for a night of worship, a favorite artist, or an unforgettable concert experience, there’s something for everyone during this year’s offer. Good Friday Nashville and Found Collective events are excluded from this promotion.

The promotion runs from tomorrow, July 15, through July 22, or while supplies last, with select tickets available for just $30 All-In, with no additional ticketing fees beyond applicable taxes. Don’t wait, as these special-priced tickets won’t last long.

Tim Tebow has another faith-based project in the works. This week, Tebow’s Studio316 co-founder Edward Tommasi shared the launch of Lighthouse Verticals, a new microdrama platform focused on uplifting entertainment.

This brand new platform will focus on faith-based entertainment, including projects from Studio316 and Snow Story Productions.

Studio316, founded by former NFL player Tim Tebow’s company, The Tebow Group, produces faith-based entertainment, while Snow Story Productions has created vertical content for major commercial campaigns and the DramaShorts app.

Tebow will executive produce projects for Lighthouse Verticals after recently serving in that role on the animated musical David; with his Studio316, he is set to work on 30-plus projects with Snow Story Productions for the platform.

Lighthouse Verticals promises to focus on “uplifting, values-driven entertainment” that the whole family can enjoy. The company has been co-founded by Brent Ryan Green (an executive producer of The Chosen and co-producer of The Unbreakable Boy), Jesse Liddell (former EVP of LD Entertainment), Justin Levy (executive producer of Black Rabbit and Treadstone), and Scott Holroyd (producer of Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery).

The platform is set to launch in November 2026.

Motown Gospel, a division of Capitol Christian Music Group, Capitol Records and Universal Music Group, announces the signing of GRAMMY-nominated artist Koryn Hawthorne, marking an exciting new chapter for one of Gospel music’s most dynamic contemporary voices.

“I’m really grateful for this new chapter with Motown Gospel and Capitol CMG,” says Koryn Hawthorne on the signing. “I’ve been blessed to do a lot in my career already, but I still feel like I’m just getting started in so many ways. I’ve grown as an artist, as a woman and in my faith, and I wanted to be in a place that understood all of that. This partnership feels aligned with where I am now and where I am headed next.”

Left: Brad O’Donnell, Middle: Koryn Hawthorne, Right: Walter Thomas

The news arrives as Hawthorne prepares to release new music and step into a renewed creative season. This fall, she will release her first project with Motown Gospel: a forthcoming EP, with music executive produced by J. White Did It, known for his work with Doechii, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, JT, and Yung Miami. The project showcases a fresh, elevated sound while staying true to the faith-centered message that has made Hawthorne a standout voice.

“Koryn Hawthorne is one of the most compelling and distinctive voices in Gospel music and we’re thrilled to welcome her to Motown Gospel and CCMG,” says Brad O’Donnell, President, Capitol Christian Music Group. “She’s an artist with vision, purpose and a deep connection to her fans and that is exactly the kind of artist we love to work with. We’re honored to partner with her in this next chapter of her career.”

Walter Thomas, EVP of Motown Gospel & TAMLA Records on the signing-

“Koryn is the kind of artist you root for: incredibly gifted, deeply grounded and clear about the message she wants to carry. What has always stood out to us is her ability to meet people where they are and make music that feels both personal and uplifting. We’re proud to welcome her to Motown Gospel and excited to help support everything she is building in this next season.”

Hawthorne will preview this new era with her upcoming single “His Favorite,” an uplifting anthem that seamlessly blends Gospel and R&B while reminding listeners that they are loved, chosen and favored by God. Powered by Hawthorne’s signature vocals and inspiring message, the track encourages listeners to embrace their worth and walk boldly in the assurance of God’s love. With its confident spirit and feel-good energy, “His Favorite” is the perfect soundtrack to begin the day with positivity and purpose.

The signing and forthcoming music follow Hawthorne’s celebrated return to the 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, where she performed her RIAA Platinum-certified hit single “Won’t He Do It” before hundreds of enthusiastic fans on the ESSENCE of Culture Main Stage.

The moment became a powerful reminder of Hawthorne’s deep connection with her audience: as she walked on stage and asked the crowd, “What do y’all want to hear?,” fans immediately erupted in cheers for “Won’t He Do It,” singing along throughout the performance. That connection continued beyond the stage, as after her performance Hawthorne walked through the convention center and was greeted by fans who thanked her not only for her music, but for the personal story she has shared with them — including her journey of building her home and farm, her growth as a homeowner and the empowered, purpose-driven life she continues to model.

A small-town Louisiana native, Hawthorne first rose to national prominence as a finalist on The Voice before establishing herself as a major force in Gospel and inspirational music. Her breakout single “Won’t He Do It” became a career-defining hit, earning RIAA Platinum certification and topping multiple Gospel charts. Since then, Hawthorne has continued to build a powerful bridge between Gospel, R&B and contemporary music, pairing her unmistakable vocal presence with messages of faith, resilience and self-worth.