The gospel music community celebrated a night of outstanding achievements and powerful performances at the 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, with artists like Lisa Knowles-Smith, Darrel Walls, and Jonathan McReynolds taking home top honors. The annual event, a cornerstone of recognition for excellence in gospel music, showcased a diverse range of talent, from established legends to emerging stars, across numerous categories. The full list of winners reflects the vibrant and evolving landscape of contemporary and traditional gospel sounds, highlighting the enduring power of faith-based music.
This year’s ceremony, held at a star-studded venue, saw Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts clinch the coveted Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year award for their impactful track "Still (Live)." Their win underscores the continued innovation and creative fusion within the genre. The category was fiercely competitive, featuring notable entries from Deitrick Haddon & Voices of Unity, Jason Clayborn x Melvin Crispell III, Mariah Carey (featuring The Clark Sisters), Red Hands, Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft. John Legend, and The Group Fire, each bringing their unique artistry to the forefront.
In the Traditional Duo/Chorus Group of the Year category, Brandon Camphor & One Way emerged victorious for their stirring rendition of "In Christ Alone." This win acknowledges their commitment to preserving and advancing the rich heritage of traditional gospel music. Other nominees in this category included Darrel Petties & Take 2, Lucinda Moore featuring Bishop Paul S. Morton, and the esteemed collaboration of Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard, all of whom delivered powerful contributions throughout the year.
Darrel Walls solidified his status as a leading voice in contemporary gospel, securing the Contemporary Male Artist of the Year award for his work on "Heart of Mine." His win is a testament to his artistic growth and his ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt lyrics and compelling delivery. The category also recognized the considerable talents of Jonathan McReynolds, Thomas Ware, and Zacardi Cortez, each making significant marks in the gospel music scene.
The Traditional Male Artist of the Year award was presented to the venerable John P. Kee for his project "Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I." Kee’s enduring legacy and his ability to inspire multiple generations of artists and listeners were on full display with this honor. Nominees in this significant category included E. Dewey Smith, Earnest Pugh, and JJ Hairston, all respected figures in traditional gospel music.
Erica Campbell was celebrated as the Contemporary Female Artist of the Year for her powerful single "Trust and Obey." Her win highlights her continued influence and her unwavering dedication to spreading messages of faith and hope. The competitive field also included Adia, Crystal Aikin, Kim Person, and Nia Allen, showcasing a breadth of female talent driving the contemporary gospel sound forward.
The Traditional Female Artist of the Year honor went to Blanche McAllister-Dykes for her profound work on "Words." Her recognition speaks to the enduring appeal and spiritual depth found in traditional gospel artistry. Other nominees, including Bobbi Lane, K. Jeanette, and Lucinda Moore, also demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication within this esteemed category.
Stellar Gospel Music Awards: Album and Single Achievements
The Stellar Gospel Music Awards also recognized excellence in album and single releases, underscoring the breadth of creative output within the gospel industry.
Contemporary Album of the Year was awarded to "Fred Hammond Presents Sensere: The Soul of Future Worship Vol. II," a project that signifies Sensere’s innovative approach to worship music. This category highlighted significant releases from Vincent Bohanan & SOV, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Thomas Ware, showcasing the dynamic range of contemporary gospel albums.
In the Traditional Album of the Year category, Jekalyn Carr’s "Jekalyn X The Legends" took home the prestigious award. Carr’s project resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, honoring gospel music’s rich history while forging a new path. Other strong contenders included Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, and John P. Kee & New Life.
The Urban Single or Performance of the Year award recognized Adia’s remix of "On the Way" featuring Erica Campbell. This track captivated audiences with its infectious rhythm and inspiring message, marking a significant moment in gospel urban music. Other nominees included Otis Kemp, Kirk Franklin, Asaun Bynum, VaShawn Mitchell, and Jor’Dan Armstrong, each contributing to the vibrant urban gospel soundscape.
The power and majesty of gospel choirs were celebrated in multiple categories. Traditional Choir of the Year was awarded to John P. Kee & New Life for "Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I," acknowledging their profound impact and vocal prowess. The Contemporary Choir of the Year award went to Vincent Bohanan & SOV for their acclaimed "Live in New York," a testament to their dynamic stage presence and innovative sound.
Honoring Gospel Music’s Pillars and Emerging Voices
The 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards also shone a light on enduring artists and innovative projects across various specialized categories.
Traditional Artist of the Year was presented to Jekalyn Carr for her project "Jekalyn X The Legends," reinforcing her position as a leading force in traditional gospel music. Her win, alongside recognition for albums like "Songs Daddy Used To Sing" by E. Dewey Smith, "The Live Reunion: Washington, DC" by JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, and "Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee Part I" by John P. Kee & New Life, highlighted the robust health of the traditional gospel music scene.
In a category celebrating collaborative spirit, Special Event Album of the Year was awarded to "Bishop S.Y. Younger Presents: Almost Home – A Ramp Record with Friends." This award recognizes the power of collective efforts in creating impactful gospel music projects. Other nominees included Vincent Bohanan & SOV, Ron Carter & Ricky Dillard, and John P. Kee & New Life, each bringing unique special event projects to the forefront.
The intersection of faith and modern artistry was evident in the Rap/Hip Hop Gospel Album of the Year category, with Lecrae’s "Reconstruction" taking home the win. Lecrae’s continued influence in blending faith-based messages with hip-hop culture was once again validated. The category also featured strong submissions from Childlike CiCi, Mike Teezy, and DFG SUL, showcasing the growing diversity within this genre.
Young talent and future leaders were honored with the Youth Project of the Year award going to Pure N Heart for "Alphaeus Anderson Presents Pure N Heart Celebrate Jesus 20yrs." This award underscores the importance of nurturing and showcasing the next generation of gospel artists. AMG Kidz x Wilson World and Janessa Smith were also recognized for their promising youth-oriented projects.
The artistic presentation of music was also acknowledged. Recorded Music Packaging of the Year was awarded for Darrel Walls’ album "Heart of Mine," highlighting the visual artistry that complements the musical content. This award celebrated the collaborative efforts of artists and designers in creating compelling album artwork.
The spiritual uplift and heartfelt devotion characteristic of praise and worship music were central to two key awards. Praise and Worship Album of the Year was presented to Todd Dulaney for his album "Promises," a project that has deeply resonated with listeners seeking spiritual connection. The category also featured powerful submissions from Israel & New Breed, Naomi Raine, and Maranda Curtis, each contributing to the rich tapestry of worship music.
Praise And Worship Song of the Year was awarded to Jovonta Patton for his inspiring track "Your Name." This recognition celebrates songs that effectively lead congregations and individuals into deeper worship. Naomi Raine, Maranda Curtis, and Todd Dulaney were also nominated for their impactful worship songs.
The dynamic energy of gospel hip-hop was further highlighted with Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year going to JustCordell for "Movin’." This win signifies the growing impact and creative expression within this genre. Notable nominees in this category included Lecrae ft. TI & Killer Mike, 1K Phew Ft. Forrest Frank & 1K Pson, and Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz.
Finally, the prestigious HBCU Choir of the Year award celebrated the exceptional talent and dedication of student ensembles. The Fort Valley State University Choir, featuring Loren Michelle & Tiffany Boone, earned this distinguished honor. The category also recognized the outstanding contributions of the Howard Gospel Choir, the Morgan State University Choir, the NCA&T Fellowship Gospel Choir, and the Southern University Gospel Choir, underscoring the vital role these institutions play in cultivating gospel music talent. The 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards once again affirmed the enduring power, creativity, and spiritual significance of gospel music.
