NASHVILLE, TN (www.thestellarawards.com) - The 21st Annual
Stellar Gospel
Music Awards proved to be a night filled with spirited performances, special tributes and a line-up of some of entertainment's most celebrated stars. Gospel diva Vickie Winans served as co-host for the show, joined by
Donnie McClurkin and Israel, welcoming performers and presenters to a packed house.
It was a hand-clapping, foot-stomping good time when sister duo Mary Mary opened the night of performances singing "Heaven" off their self- titled project Mary Mary, which garnered them a Stellar Award for "Urban/Inspirational Single/Performance of the Year." Ty Tribett added another level of excitement to Mary Mary's performance during a musical medley that got the crowd on their feet as the show kicked into high gear.
The big winner of the night was Donald Lawrence, who received 10 nominations, and took home six Stellar Awards. J Moss, who also received 10 nomination nods, followed Lawrence picking up three awards, including "New Artist of the Year." Walter Hawkins and Lil iRocc Williams both received two awards.
Another highlight of the evening included Aretha Franklin's presentation of "Song of the Year" to Jonathan Nelson for his song, Healed.
Fred Hammond was among those receiving special recognition for his pioneering work in songwriting, outstanding performances and record sales success in the gospel music industry. Joann Rosario and Men of Standard serenaded Hammond with a melody of some of his most notable recordings, including Running Back, No Weapon, Blessed and Glory-to- Glory. Gospel dynamo Kirk Franklin was on hand to present Hammond with the Most Notable Achievement Award.
One of the most memorable and touching moments of the evening was the tribute to The Winans Family. Known as the First Family of Gospel Music, The Winans have been trailblazers in multi-musical genres spawning hits in traditional, contemporary, urban/hip-hop, to name a few. Andre Crouch, a 2003 recipient of the James Cleveland Award, introduced Chante Moore, Kenny Lattimore and Rizen, who performed a special tribute celebrating the life and legacy of the late Ronald Winans. The Rev. Jesse Jackson, who opened the show with an inspirational prayer, also presented the family with the prestigious award, which is given annually to someone who has made a major impact in the development and advancement of gospel music.
The high-energy night showed no signs of slowing down with other soul- stirring performances by the incomparable Yolanda Adams, Walter Hawkins, gospel dynamo Kirk Franklin, the Mississippi Mass Choir, Dottie Peoples, Men of Standard, gospel sensation Shirley Caesar, Smokie Norful and Rance Allen. Kirk Whalum, who picked up a Stellar for "Instrumental CD of the Year" gave a moving performance featuring the soothing vocal styling of singer Jonathan Butler.
The show concluded with a powerful finale by this year's Stellar Award dominator Donald Lawrence.
For a complete listing of all 2006 Stellar Award winners, visit www.thestellarawards.com.
