THE RECORDING ACADEMY® Celebrates Gospel Icons Edwin and Walter Hawkins, Sandi Patty and The Winans

Santa Monica, Calif. — GRAMMY®-winning artists Edwin and Walter Hawkins, five-time GRAMMY winner Sandi Patty, and five-time GRAMMY-winning group The Winans, will be recipients of the President's Merit Award at the 2008 GRAMMY Salute To Gospel Music® event in Washington, D.C. In continuing with its tradition of honoring artistic excellence, The Recording Academy will spotlight the genre by celebrating members of the gospel community during the event, which will be held on Wed., June 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C. The event will include performances from gospel, contemporary Christian and contemporary artists under the music direction of GRAMMY-winning producer Donald Lawrence.

The President's Merit Award recognizes the contributions that key individuals have made in the music industry and the impact their efforts have had on music and the business of music. The award is an opportunity for The Recording Academy to acknowledge and honor the contributions of these outstanding individuals. The GRAMMY Salute To Gospel Music event began in 2004 during GRAMMY Week to honor those who have made significant contributions to gospel music, while supporting the history and cultural impact of the genre. Past honorees include Shirley Caesar, Andraé Crouch, Bill and Gloria Gaither, Bill Hearn, Billy Ray Hearn, Richard Smallwood, Albertina Walker, the Clark Sisters, Dr. Bobby Jones and Michael W. Smith.

"As we continue with our 50th Celebration and our tradition of honoring diversity in music, we bring the GRAMMY Salute To Gospel Music back to our capital city," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "This event is a true celebration of gospel music, bringing luminaries together for an inspiring concert while recognizing the cultural impact of this genre. We are delighted to pay tribute to such dynamic artists and their influential music."

About The Honorees: