Dove Awards Shine Bright: Gospel Music’s Finest Honored

The 55th Annual GMA Dove Awards ignited Nashville’s music scene on October 1st, 2024, as gospel music’s elite gathered for a night of celebration! Jonathan Smith dominated with seven wins, including Producer of the Year, while Phil Wickham claimed four Doves, including Worship Album of the Year. The incomparable CeCe Winans was crowned Artist of the Year, among her three wins. “Holy Forever” songwriters Chris Tomlin, Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson, Jason Ingram, and Phil Wickham shared Song of the Year honors. Brandon Lake, Chandler Moore, and Jason Ingram each secured three awards, with Forrest Frank named New Artist of the Year. Hosted by Tauren Wells, the high-energy show aired on TBN, TBN+, and SiriusXM The Message, showcasing the best of gospel music’s diverse talent.

CeCe Winans opened the show with a joy-fueled performance of “That’s My King” complete with a 24-person choir. Tauren Wells brought out surprise guests DAVIES. and Skillet’s John Cooper for his dynamic “Take It All Back” performance. Forrest Frank’s upbeat “No Longer Bound/GOOD DAY” mash-up featured members from The Choir Room. One of the night’s highlights, introduced by beloved worship leader Darlene Zschech, was the multilingual performance of “Holy Forever” featuring Brian and Jenn Johnson, Miel San Marcos and Gabriel Guedes.

In a heavy yet worshipful moment, host Tauren Wells spoke about the many losses happening at home and around the world, including within the Christian and Gospel music community. Especially poignant, Wells played a personal audio text from Mandisa, who passed earlier this year, and reminded the audience how important it is to speak words of love to those around us. “I know so many of you in the room received messages, support and love just like this,” Wells said. “[Mandisa] will be greatly missed along with all of the other friends and family we’ve lost this year and loved so deeply. It’s a sobering reminder that our words carry so much weight. Your words can be some of the most valuable things you can leave behind. Let’s all remember to reach out to those we love.” The moment was capped off with a stirring performance of “My Tribute (To God Be The Glory)” from Natalie Grant.

In a surprise announcement, the GMA revealed the 56th Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena in the heart of Music City. The announcement was delivered in a video featuring Steven Curtis Chapman, Jason Crabb, Jekalyn Carr, Danny Gokey and CeCe Winans carrying the Dove statuette from Lipscomb’s Allen Arena to Bridgestone Arena.

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