The Premier Gospel Awards took place at the esteemed Cadogan Hall in Chelsea, London, marking a momentous celebration of 50 years of gospel music in the UK. This dazzling event, organised by Premier Gospel Radio in collaboration with the Jamaica Tourist Board, attracted gospel music enthusiasts for an enchanting evening filled with remarkable live performances and awards across nine categories.
Dedicated Premier Gospel radio presenters joined forces with the artists they champion to honor the music, message, and culture of UK gospel. The event showcased extraordinary performances, including the Hip Hop Cypher featuring some of the finest rappers from the past three decades, and The Global Mic Toss, which included Grammy Award winners such as Israel Houghton and Travis Greene, Nigerian musical phenom Dunsin Oyekan, and the multi-award-winning choir ZimPraise, among others.
The guest performances were a star-studded affair, with renowned artists taking the stage, including Annatoria, the youngest ever winner of The Voice UK, Tim Bowman Jr, three-time Mobo award winner Guvna B, and Chevelle Franklin from Jamaica.
The winners in each category exemplify the exceptional talent and unwavering dedication that has shaped UK gospel music, its message, and its culture. The deserving winners are as follows:
- Best Male Vocalist (sponsored by Mission Aviation Fellowship): Limoblaze
- Best Female Vocalist (sponsored by World Vision): Annatoria
- Best Song (sponsored by Unite the Union): Limoblaze – “Jireh”
- Best Album: Triple O – “Everything Left Unsaid”
- Best Video: Guvna B – “Bridgeland Road”
- Choir of the Year (sponsored by Release International): The Spirituals
- Best Group (sponsored by Hackney Fostering): Manor Collective
- Best Newcomer (sponsored by The Tab): Tofunmi Adorna
- Best International Act (sponsored by Prostate Cancer UK): Mercy Chinwo
In addition to recognising the winners across these nine award categories, which encompass various aspects of gospel music excellence, distinguished honorees Kanya King, Stormzy, Yolanda Brown, and Bukayo Saka received the Outstanding Contribution to Gospel Award for their immense dedication and impact on gospel music.
“…I am truly grateful to the Premier Gospel Awards for bestowing this honor upon me. My faith has played an integral role in my journey, and receiving this award holds great significance for me…” Bukayo Saka expressed his gratitude.
“I was deeply moved to receive this award. I am passionate about seeing more gospel artists spreading such a positive message.” Kanya King CBE shared her sentiments.
“It is an incredible honor. I recall the early years when others paid little attention, but Premier Gospel would interview me.” YolanDa Brown OBE reflected on her journey.
The Premier Gospel Awards triumphed as a resounding success, bringing together the gospel music community for a night of jubilation and appreciation for its rich history and cultural influence. Attendees left inspired by the captivating performances and heartfelt speeches that underscored the importance of gospel music in today’s world.
“This was a defining moment for the music, message, and culture. The future of Gospel in the UK looks bright.” – Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE.
Photo credit featuring Kanya King CBE and Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE: © Manny’s Vantage
