Events
OUR MUSIC, OUR VOICE, OUR CULTURE: THE STELLAR GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF INSPIRATION AND IMPACT
By Dr. Jerome Dorn
For four decades, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards has been the ultimate celebration of faith, excellence, and Black artistry. This year, the show that defined and dignified gospel music returns in a way only the Stellars can — bigger, bolder, and more soulful than ever.
Set to tape on August 16, 2025, at the illustrious Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville, the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards is more than just a ceremony — it’s a movement, echoing its powerful 2025 theme: “OUR MUSIC, OUR VOICE, OUR CULTURE.â€
STELLAR HOSTS FOR A STELLAR NIGHT
Powerhouse siblings BeBe & CeCe Winans, both Stellar and GRAMMY Award-winning legends, will co-host this historic milestone night, bringing their signature grace, humor, and spiritual authenticity to the main stage.
The ceremony will premiere:
Saturday, August 30th at 8PM ET/7PM CT on The Stellar Network
Sunday, August 31st at 8PM ET/7PM CT on BET
September 28th at 1PM EST/12PM CT on Bounce TV
And streaming on Vizio and Xumo Play beginning September 29th
Broadcast syndication will roll out nationally between September 6 – September 28, extending the message of gospel to millions.
A STAR-STUDDED LINEUP OF PERFORMERS
With a lineup that blends gospel’s rich heritage with its vibrant future, this year’s performers are set to ignite the stage with praise, power, and purpose.
Recently announced performers include:
- Jamal Roberts
- Jonathan McReynolds
- Nathan Davis Jr.
- Todd Dulaney
- New Direction Gospel Choir of Tennessee State University
- Lisa Knowles-Smith
They join previously revealed stars like:
- Adia
- Donnie McClurkin
- Dottie Peoples
- Jekalyn Carr
- Jason Nelson
- Lisa Page Brooks
- MAJOR.
- Melvin Crispell III
- Pastor Mike Jr.
- Pastor Mike Todd & Transformation Worship
- Tasha Cobbs Leonard
- Tasha Page-Lockhart
- Tramaine Hawkins
- William Murphy
A musical celebration this stacked makes one thing clear — the soul of gospel is alive and thriving.
A NIGHT OF HONOR
At the heart of this year’s festivities is a deeply moving tribute: Don Jackson, the visionary founder of Central City Productions and the Stellar Awards themselves, will receive the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award. A titan of Black media and gospel music, Jackson’s legacy is now cemented not only in history but in the hearts of millions.
STELLAR PLUS EXPERIENCE: COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND CONVERSATION
Beyond the main event, the Stellar brand continues to innovate. The STELLAR PLUS Experience, returning August 14–15, invites fans and industry leaders alike to dive into immersive events, panels, and performances.
Confirmed names shaping this dynamic experience include:
- Adam Blackstone
- Dana Sorey
- Avery Sunshine
- Miles Minnick
- Joyce Sheffield
- Karri Bryant
- Jayda Ellis
- Damon Williams
- Griff
- Just Nesh
- Kasaun Wilson, and many more
The Stellar Unplugged Music Experience, presented by Amazon Music in partnership with the Recording Academy, will spotlight raw, soul-stirring artistry in its purest form.
A STAR-STUDDED CAST OF PRESENTERS
This year’s presenters cross the spectrum of entertainment, culture, and faith. Expect appearances from:
Lil Rel Howery
Dominique Perry Dante Bowe
Isaac Carree
Trina Braxton
…and more surprise names yet to be announced!
A PRODUCTION POWERHOUSE
The 40th Stellar Awards production is under the expert guidance of:
- Don Jackson – Executive Producer
- Jennifer J. Jackson – Executive in Charge of Production
- Michael A. Johnson – Director & Producer
- Erin Johnson – Talent Producer
- Daniel Moore – Music Director
With this team at the helm, excellence is not a hope — it’s a guarantee.
GOSPEL MEETS GLOBAL BRANDS
This year’s show is supported by some of the most influential global brands including:
Procter & Gamble (P&G) – presenting sponsor
Additional sponsors include: Mielle, Olay Body, Tide, Chevy, Walmart, Aflac, AT&T, AARP, State Farm, McDonald’s, Kenvue, Johnson & Johnson, and St. Jude — proving that faith and culture move markets.
JOIN THE CELEBRATION
The Stellar Gospel Music Awards has long been Gospel Music’s Greatest Night. But this year, it’s more than a night — it’s a legacy. A culture. A chorus of voices raised in faith, truth, and triumph.
Don’t miss it. Tune in, turn up, and give God the glory.
Visit stellarawards.com for a full list of nominees and more details.
Use the hashtag #TheStellars to join the conversation.
InDaHouseMedia Magazine proudly celebrates the artists, the innovators, and the believers who make the Stellars the gold standard in gospel.
