After making its home in Atlanta for the past few years, The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced on Tuesday, March 19 that the GMA Dove Awards is returning to Music City. The show, for first time in its history will take place in the fall. The 44th Annual Dove Awards will take place Tuesday, October 15, at 8 p.m. EST, at Allen Arena on the campus of Nashville’s historic Lipscomb University. The awards show will be televised on GMC TV to more than 60 million homes.
According to a statement released by Gospel Music Association, the move from spring to fall was an intentional shift to make this year’s event an unforgettable celebration of the message and artistry that defines the Gospel/Christian music genre as it leads into the industry’s most significant retail sales season.
“The GMA Dove Awards has a tradition of bringing our music community together to celebrate God’s goodness as a family and raising awareness for Christian and Gospel music,” says GMA Executive Director Jackie Patillo in a statement. The memorable evening will celebrate the impact Gospel music is making in the lives of countless listeners around the world through story and song. “This year we will not only pay tribute to the music and its makers, but we will shine a light on those who have experienced the music as a lifeline,” says Patillo.
In addition to performances, the show will also highlight the efforts of the industry’s artists who are using their platforms to champion causes greater than themselves. Food for the Hungry, which provides emergency relief and long-term development programs to help the world’s most vulnerable people, will be this year’s GMA Dove Awards ministry partner.
“As America’s leader for uplifting entertainment, we are proud to be the exclusive home of the 44th Annual Dove Awards as they celebrate two of our most successful genres of programming – music and movies,” said Charles Humbard, president and CEO, GMC TV.
The return to Nashville is being celebrated all around Music City, considered the center of Gospel/Christian music. “The Christian and Gospel music industry plays an important role in the energy of our city’s music scene, and, as Music City, we are proud to welcome the Dove Awards back to Nashville,” Mayor Karl Dean said.
The GMA has added a feature film category this year. The move is in response to the rise in prominence and impact of inspirational films within the entertainment community. The Dove Foundation, known for its Dove Seal of approval for filmed entertainment has been invited to participate in the development of the category and to ensure the creditability of this award.
“I am delighted that such a highly-respected organization as the GMA is recognizing Christian films,” says Dick Rolfe, Dove Foundation co-founder and CEO. “GMA has been a big part of my life ever since my years in Christian radio and television.”
Final nominees are scheduled to be announced on Tuesday, August 22, 2013. Only GMA members are eligible to vote in the 44th Annual GMA Dove Awards. To vote and further support this community, membership by March 30, 2013, is required. Visit www.gospelmusic.org for details on member benefits and application information.
Tickets for the 44th Annual GMA Dove Awards will go on-sale to the public June 7, 2013. To view eligibility period and entry details, visit www.doveawardsvoting.com. For all other GMA Dove Awards information, visitwww.doveawards.com.
Comments