Nashville, Tennessee, October 20th, 2023 – The 54th Annual GMA Dove Awards illuminated the music world on a Tuesday night, gracing the city of Nashville, Tennessee with its divine presence. With a sold-out audience, the electrifying show made its debut on national television screens this past Friday, October 20th, available exclusively on TBN and The TBN App, simulcasting its musical magic on SiriusXM The Message. The evening’s charismatic host, Tauren Wells, ushered in a night of celestial melodies, encompassing various musical genres, from Gospel to Latin, Worship, Pop, and Southern Gospel, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to the realm of Hip Hop. A second chance to experience this musical enchantment awaits on TBN and The TBN App, slated for Friday, October 27th, 2023, at 8pm and 10pm ET.

In the spotlight of the night, Brandon Lake emerged as the luminary, taking home an impressive total of four awards, including the coveted Artist of the Year. The accolades kept pouring in with Songwriter of the Year – Artist, Worship Recorded Song of the Year, and Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year. The revered title of Song of the Year was bestowed upon “Goodness Of God,” paying homage to its gifted songwriters: Ben Fielding, Ed Cash, Jason Ingram, Jenn Johnson, and Brian Johnson. Tasha Cobbs Leonard also graced the winner’s circle, securing two well-deserved trophies for Gospel Worship Album of the Year and Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year. Meanwhile, the title of New Artist of the Year was bestowed upon Katy Nicole, and “Jesus Revolution” claimed the crown as Feature Film of the Year.

The event was marked by an array of surprise performances, including Jordin Sparks’ soul-stirring rendition of “Love Me Like I Am” alongside for KING + COUNTRY, a charismatic collaboration between Pastor Mike Jr. and Ricky Dillard on “Impossible,” and a touching moment featuring Tauren Wells and Davies, who shared the stage for “Take It All Back.” Harmonious excellence filled the air as Gospel Hall of Fame members Take 6 joined forces with Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. A jubilant homage to the transformative power of hip hop graced the stage, with dynamic performances by Hulvey, Social Club Misfits, GRITS, and a thrilling throwback led by TobyMac with a reprise of the 2002 hit, “Ooh Aah (My Life Be Like).”

Throughout the evening, host Tauren Wells moved the audience with a heartfelt sermon, directing attention to the ongoing conflict in Israel. He passionately declared, “We stand with the people of God, and as scripture instructs us, we pray for peace in Jerusalem. Now here’s the thing – we can’t just pray for peace and not understand and identify the Prince of Peace. This conflict will not end until Jesus is the Lord of Israel, and Jesus is the Lord of Palestine, and Jesus is the Lord of every nation, tribe, and tongue. There is a day coming at which every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The world could be at war, but the church is going to be in worship. Because we don’t praise God depending on our circumstances; we praise God depending on His reputation.”

Dr. Bobby Jones received the prestigious Jackie Patillo Leadership Award, a well-deserved tribute to his illustrious career as a composer, recording artist, and choir director. As a pioneer in the propagation of Gospel music through the power of radio and television programming, Dr. Jones played a pivotal role in catapulting numerous renowned artists to their current acclaim. He has been a stalwart figure in the industry since 1976 and is a distinguished member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. It was an honor for the GMA to bestow upon him The Jackie Patillo Leadership Award.

For those eager to relive the magic of the 54th GMA Dove Awards, the option to watch the event on demand via The TBN App is available. For a comprehensive list of all the winners, please visit the official website.