Stellar Awards 2020 Recap and Highlights

The Stellar Awards went virtual this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The show was interesting. Although it was virtual, it was still entertaining. My current thought do we want to go for more entertaining, or inspiring in the gospel music field now? I think a good mix of both is good. But I would definitely say keep the good news main thing, the main thing!

The show was hosted by Jonathan McReynolds, Koryn Hawthorne, and Kirk Franklin.

Some people definitely had an issue with Koryn Hawthorne's shoulder being out. Throughout the wardrobe changes it seems that the right shoulder was wanting to get it's shine. It was out in like in every outfit. I personally don't have a big issue with that it was out but just that whole blue pantsuit outfit bothered me. who put this together where was the fashion? I personally didn't get it. It looked like it was uncomfortable.

Going forward into the show there was a nice plug added from State Farm to introduce the song of the year which "Deliver Me" featuring Leandria Johnson definitely was.

• I love that the show had a spotlight on health awareness by visiting the medical centers and honoring first responders during this crisis. 

• Anthony Brown's performance was good. It was powerful, clean and visually appealing

• JJ Hairston was a good choice to win the award that he did! Bishop William Murphy would have been a good choice as well to win in that category.

• Very pleased with Leandria Johnson Winning for "Deliver Me".

• Great tribute to rep John Lewis from Cece Winans! Bernice King had a powerful prayer that's featured on out YouTube page.

• Marvin Sapp's Performance had a good quality.

• Jonathan McReynolds on top of the roof was nice! Those people in the background of the performance were not social distancing though. maybe they were his family. I liked the song he performed. It was pure and sincere. Some gospel artists go for a more pop-ish sound and leave out "the oil" along the way.

• Was it a surprise that Pastor Mike Jr. Won Best New Artist?! I like him though! He has really sincere vibes.

• James Fortune "I am" is everything! That's my song! #TheStellars
• The Collaboration with Travis Greene and Doe was beautiful. Her voice is beautiful! Anything that doe is on is hot! More doe in 2020 please!

• Tamela Mann! Can we talk about how Tamela Mann did a whole movie production?! That was beautiful!

• Congrats to Tasha Cobbs for winning artist of the year!

• The Stellars made an effort and you can't blame them for that. They ended on a high note with the performance by JJ Hairston and Kiki Sheard.

Ultimately, however bad the fake background graphics were. It was The Stellar Awards own pivot in the midst of this Pandemic, so Kudos to them for that!

What were your thoughts on The Stellars this year? Leave your thoughts in the comment section and connect with us @BOLDJournal on all platforms.

35TH ANNIVERSARY STELLAR AWARDS VIRTUAL SPECIAL PREMIERING ON BET

Tonight, music fans, Gospel enthusiasts and anyone looking for a little inspiration can tune into the highly-anticipated 35th Anniversary Stellar Gospel Music Awards premiering on BET and BET Her as a two-hour virtual special on Sunday, August 23 at 6 p.m. ET/5C (with an encore at 9 p.m. ET). The award show will also run in national broadcast syndication in 210 markets starting August 29 – September 27 (check local listings).

Serving as hosts, the award-winning trio of Kirk Franklin, Jonathan McReynolds and Koryn Hawthorne artfully guide viewers through the virtual salute to 35 years of excellence as "The Greatest Night in Gospel Music" with inspirational performances from Gospel music's most celebrated artists. Filmed from various locations, the pre-taped special acknowledges all award winners from the "Road to Stellars" pre-show and the main show, with select categories being presented in the broadcast.

One of the evening's highlights will feature special segments honoring the late Congressman John Lewis with a musical tribute by Cece Winans and contributions of first responder heroes on the front lines of the battle against the Coronavirus pandemic, sponsored by AT&T,  AARP, State Farm, Toyota, and Proctor & Gamble. As part of the tribute, hosts Franklin, McReynolds and Hawthorne visited frontline workers and presented special Stellar Awards lapel pins in recognition of their service at MeHarry Medical College in Nashville, TN; Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago, IL; and Parkland Hospital in Dallas, TX. In addition, several individuals were highlighted for their efforts to combat the deadly pandemic: Dr. Angela Mosby of Los Angeles, CA for her work at UCLA Urgent Care in the area of Telemedicine; Dr. Michele Reed of Queens NY, a family medicine practitioner who contracted and recovered from COVID-19 while serving others; and Dr. Leon McDougle, the 121st President of the National Medical Association who also serves as a member of the NCAA Coronavirus Panel and Chief Diversity Officer of OSU Medical School. Two organizations have also been noted for their work to combat the devastating effects of COVID-19 on communities of color, the National Urban League and the National Medical Association.

"This is a moment to come together," said veteran Stellar Awards co-host Kirk Franklin. "We have something very important to say to a world that needs this kind of music, with this particular message, now more than ever. The Stellar Awards is going to provide that as they have for 35 years."

Performers include Tamela Mann, Anthony Brown, CeCe Winans, James Fortune, Koryn Hawthorne, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, Jonathan McReynolds, Travis Greene, Kierra Sheard, Marvin Sapp, Tye Tribbett, Tauren Wells, Zacardi Cortez, Pastor Mike Jr, DOE, Rich Tolbert Jr., and more. Emerging artists set to make their Stellar Awards debut include Group Fire, Keyla Richardson, Melvin Crispell III, and Titus Showers.

The Stellar Awards recognizes the year's best performances in the genre, honors Gospel music icons and acknowledges the accomplishments of individuals instrumental in advocating for the industry. Previously announced nominees for the 2020 Stellar Awards include veteran Gospel collective Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, who leads the field of nominees with nine nominations. Other top nominees include Gospel icon and Stellar Awards Host, Kirk Franklin and powerhouse singer, producer and performer Tasha Cobbs Leonard with eight nominations each; JJ Hairston (7 Nominations), Bishop Paul S. Morton (6 Nominations), John P. Kee (5 Nominations), Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers (4 Nominations), William Murphy (4 Nominations), Pastor Mike, Jr. (4 Nominations), Maranda Curtis (3 Nominations), and Fresh Start Worship (3 Nominations) round out the field of top nominated artists. For the complete list of the 35th Anniversary Stellar Gospel Music Awards nominees, please visit www.thestellarawards.com. 

Stellar Awards Announces 2020 Virtual Production

credit: Stellar Awards

The Stellar Gospel Music Awards has announced that this year's Awards Show will be virtual. The virtual television broadcast will include a special tribute to first responders. Artists Jonathan McRenolds and Koryn Hawthorne are still set to host the event. Returning to host, this time as a co-host will be Kirk Franklin.

The superstar trio will work together to keep the virtual television praise party lifted and flowing seamlessly throughout the evening. Confirmed performers include Donnie McClurkin, James Fortune, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, Travis Greene, Pastor Mike Jr., Kierra Sheard, and Doe, with more to be announced.

An important tradition at the Stellar Awards will be held for next year’s 2021 show, where Jackson will bestow well-deserved special honors and recognition upon Gospel greats who have elevated the genre. The previously named recipients – The Clark Sisters, Lady Tramaine Hawkins, Pastor Shirley Caesar in addition to Gospel music industry leaders Dr. Leonard Scott, Skip Barrett, Kerry Douglas, and Dr. Teresa Hairston – will be celebrated for their contributions to Gospel music when The Stellar Awards returns to Las Vegas next Spring in March 2021.

Tickets purchased for 2020 Stellar Awards events that were scheduled for August 14–16 will be refunded. Previously announced nominees for the 2020 Stellar Awards includes , veteran Gospel collective, Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers who leads the field of nominees with nine nominations. Other top nominees include Gospel icon and Stellar Awards Host, Kirk Franklin and powerhouse singer, producer and performer Tasha Cobbs Leonard with eight nominations each; JJ Hairston (7 Nominations), Bishop Paul S. Morton (6 Nominations), John P. Kee (5 Nominations), Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers (4 Nominations), William Murphy (4 Nominations), Pastor Mike, Jr. (4 Nominations), Maranda Curtis (3 Nominations), and Fresh Start Worship (3 Nominations) round out the field of top nominated artists. For the complete list of the 35th Anniversary Stellar Gospel Music Awards nominees, please visit www.thestellarawards.com.

To view the full press release visit https://www.thestellarawards.com/press.html

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It's Time To Use Your Talents! #BOLDPodcast | Season 2: Episode 5

"Again I saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge, but time and chance happen to them all." - Ecclesiastes 9:11

NOW is your Opportunity! Clearly, there is no "respect of persons" in the current state of the world. Take your chance. Listen to the full "It's Time To Use Your Gifts" Podcast below: 

Follow @BOLDJournal on Social Media for the latest Inspirational News and Updates!

Stellar Awards Sets New Show Date

credit: Stellar Awards

The Stellar Awards that had an original show date for March 27, 2020 and was postponed due to COVID19 precautions has officially set a new prospective date for the show.  

Read:  Stellar Awards Officially Postponed Due To Coronavirus News

Don Jackson, The CEO of Central City Productions sent out an official announcement that the new event dates for The Stellars is set to August 14 - 16, 2020. The announcement included refund details for the original dates. It also included a message from Jackson for families to continue to support each other with prayer and responsible preparation.

"It is our hope and prayer that with quick community action, we can do our part toward the solution of this global problem. We encourage our families to continue to keep the mission of the Gospel music community at heart and support each other with prayer and responsible preparation through this trying time.

 

We thank everyone for 35 years of support of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards and we look forward to safely celebrating this special milestone with everyone soon!" Jackson wrote in the announcement.

For full details about the new Stellar Awards date and any further questions visit their official website:  www.thestellarawards.com You can also follow their social media account @TheStellars.

Follow @BOLDJournal online for the latest Inspirational News and updates.

Stellar Awards Officially Postponed Due To Coronavirus News

Don Jackson, The CEO of Central City Productions, the company that produces The Stellar Awards officially announced that the show is now postponed. The official notice from Jackson read that the new date for the event would be announced soon.

Central City shared that it would be postponed effectively until Summer 2020. Also included in the notice were actions that communities could take to prepare and stay healthy.

Credit: Stellar Gospel Music Awards

The official update from The Company is shared below:

March 12, 2020 - The Stellar Awards 35^th Anniversary Show 2020 in partnership with the Orleans Hotel and Arena wishes to ensure that the safety of all show guests and participants is the highest priority. In light of recent news and the declaration of the COVID-19 crisis as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), we have decided to postpone the production of the 35^th Annual Stellars Gospel Music Awards.

 It is important that we all take this matter seriously and do our part to respect the guidelines in place limiting large social gatherings to combat the community spread of this virus.  We must adhere to the social distancing measures put into place and continue to remain vigilant about following all possible recommendations carefully, while remaining steadfast in our faith. For more info, please go to the CDC Website.  

Effective immediately, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards 35^th Anniversary Show and events are postponed until Summer of 2020. Please follow our accounts on social media @thestellars and check our website www.stellarawards.com for updates from Central City Productions. We will continue to closely monitor the situation to determine the best time to reschedule the event. It is our hope that with quick community action, we can do our part toward the solution of this global problem. Everyone has a role to play in getting ready and staying healthy.

• Individuals and communities should familiarize themselves with recommendations to protect themselves and their communities from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.

• Older people and people with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness. They should limit travel and should not attend large gatherings unless it is essential.

• Help reduce the spread of rumors. Let people know that viruses cannot target people from specific populations, ethnicities, or racial backgrounds. Being of Asian descent does not increase the chance of getting or spreading COVID-19.

• Fight stigma and fear by supporting people who may be coming back to school or work after traveling internationally or completing a quarantine or isolation period for COVID-19. 

 We encourage our families to continue to keep the mission of the Gospel community at heart and support each other with prayer and responsible preparation through this trying time.

We thank everyone for 35 years of support of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards and we look forward to safely celebrating this special milestone with everyone this Summer! Don Jackson, CEOCentral City Productions

                                                                                _ _ _

Follow Breath Of Life Daily @BOLDJournal on all social media networks for the Latest updates and inspiration.

Lecrae's "I'll Find You" Featuring Tori Kelly Reaches Platinum Status

Recently Christian Hip Hop Artist Lecrae's Hit "I'll Find You" featuring Tori Kelly reached platinum status. It's no surprise that the inspirational composition is doing well. Congratulations to everyone who was involved with the creation of the song.

Lecrae shared a brief testimony about the success of the single on his instagram page (which is currently only one of three posts on his page).

View this post on Instagram

First ever #riaaplatinum💿 record!! I never imagined. We did it for everyone hurting and struggling, for our loved ones we lost, and for the kids fighting cancer. Thank you @torikelly and Frank E. Thank you @natalielaurensims Thank you @reachrecords and @columbiarecords and THANK YOU 👊🏽! All the support you’ve given me! Y’all ain’t fans...you’re family. When I say, “Thank you God.” I mean it!

A post shared by lecrae (@lecrae) on Mar 5, 2020 at 10:09am PST

Check out the Song "I'll Find You" by Lecrae and Tori Kelly below:

How do you like the song? Leave a comment in the comment section below and connect with Breath Of Life Daily on Social Media @BOLDJournal

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Todd Dulaney Talks New EP "Back To The Book"

Credit: Breath Of Life Daily

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Last week at an intimate conference held during Black History Month, Gospel Superstar and Worship Leader Todd Dulaney discussed his new EP "Back To The Book" with attendees. Dulaney talked about the inspiration behind the album, along with other topics related to gospel, entertainment, and the unity of the church.

He discussed his leadership style and shared a message of how "unity produces glory". Dulaney expressed the ultimate goal of getting the church out of their feelings and emotions, and "Back To The Book". That book being the Bible.

Breath Of Life Daily received an exclusive interview opportunity at the event and recorded coverage of a few powerful moments and responses that took place. Check out the video that can only be found on BOLDJournal's Official YouTube channel. 

Todd Dulaney's New EP "Back To The Book" is now available on all retail and digital streaming platforms.

"Like" and leave a comment of your favorite song from the new EP and connect with Breath Of Life Daily on all social media platforms @BOLDJournal for the latest interviews and Inspiration.

Dwell

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler
And from the perilous pestilence. - Psalm 91:1-3

If you listened to the last BOLD Podcast:  "What You're Worthy Of..." I talked about me being advised to go clean up in lieu of falling into old depressive habits. Having a clear space and environment definitely helps me to function and create a lot better. It's good feng shui!

As a business person, last week when I heard the spirit say "make room" for all the great things that are coming, and equate a clean, welcoming space to expectancy, I got excited! Like Yesss, let's get all these material blessings coming my way. (Haha) Beyond all that. Worship at Sunday Service provided a lot more beautiful clarity, that being instructed to prepare and make room, is more importantly for the Holy Spirit to dwell more comfortably.

I love that so much more than the Idea of any blessing. Preparing space for the Holy Spirit to be welcome and dwelling in the "secret place" is everything! It's where my heart is mended. It's where healing and instruction take place.

Being in a distraction free, clutter free mode and zone reminded me of the question I had for David and Tamela Mann. I love what they had to say about how they clear out the noise and reconnect to the source. Check out the episode of BOLD Podcast that featured their awesome response HERE.