Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 02:07 am
The prestigious Cadogan Hall in Chelsea, London, was the venue for the highly anticipated Premier Gospel Awards, a grand celebration marking 50 years of gospel music in the UK. This glamorous event, organised by Premier Gospel Radio in collaboration with the Jamaica Tourist Board, attracted gospel music enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening of outstanding live performances and accolades presented across nine diverse categories.
The presenters from Premier Gospel Radio joined forces with the artists they ardently support, collectively celebrating the music, message, and culture of UK gospel. The event showcased remarkable performances, including the Hip Hop Cypher featuring renowned rappers from the past three decades and The Global Mic Toss, which included Grammy Award winners such as Israel Houghton, Travis Greene, Nigerian sensation Dunsin Oyekan, and the acclaimed ZimPraise choir, among others.
The guest performances were nothing short of spectacular, featuring an illustrious lineup of renowned artists, including Annatoria, the youngest 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 embody the exceptional talent and unwavering commitment that has shaped the landscape of UK gospel music, its message, and culture. The deserving winners include:
- 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 honoring winners across these nine categories that recognise various facets of gospel music excellence, special honorees Kanya King, Stormzy, Yolanda Brown, and Bukayo Saka received the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Gospel Award in recognition of their remarkable dedication and profound impact on the world of gospel music.
“I am truly grateful to the Premier Gospel Awards for this incredible recognition. My faith has played an integral role in my journey, so receiving this award is a tremendous honor for me.” – Bukayo Saka
“I was deeply moved to receive this award. I am passionate about seeing more gospel artists out there spreading such a positive message.” – Kanya King CBE
“It is an immense honor. I remember the early years when others didn’t pay attention, but Premier Gospel supported me by conducting interviews.” – YolanDa Brown OBE
The Premier Gospel Awards was an extraordinary success, uniting the gospel music community for an evening of jubilation and appreciation for its rich history and cultural influence. Attendees departed feeling inspired by the awe-inspiring performances and heartfelt speeches that underscored the profound significance 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 shines brightly.” – Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE
Photo credit featuring Kanya King CBE and Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE: © Manny’s Vantage
