Gospel Music Shines at Stellar Awards

Donald Lawrence Leads List of Winners With Six Stellar Awards

Special Tributes To The Winans Family and Fred Hammond

21st Stellar Gospel Music Award Nominees

21st Stellar Gospel Music Awards February 2006 Schedule

Nashville, Tenn - 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.

Mary Mary and Tye Tribbett performing

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.” Tye 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.