The illustrious Cadogan Hall in Chelsea, London, played host to the prestigious Premier Gospel Awards, marking 50 years of gospel music in the UK. This grand event, presented by Premier Gospel Radio in collaboration with the Jamaica Tourist Board, captivated gospel music enthusiasts with a captivating evening of live performances and accolades across nine diverse categories.
The presenters of Premier Gospel radio united with the artists they wholeheartedly support to commemorate the music, message, and culture of UK gospel. The event showcased exceptional performances, including the Hip Hop Cypher featuring acclaimed rappers from the past three decades and The Global Mic Toss, which included Grammy Award winners Israel Houghton & Travis Greene, Nigerian music phenomenon Dunsin Oyekan, and the multi-award-winning ZimPraise choir, among others.
The star-studded guest performances featured a remarkable lineup of renowned artists, 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 truly exemplify the exceptional talent and unwavering commitment that have shaped UK gospel music, 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 the winners across the nine award categories that recognised various aspects of gospel music excellence, exceptional individuals including Kanya King, Stormzy, Yolanda Brown, and Bukayo Saka were presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Gospel Award, acknowledging their dedication and impact on gospel music.
“…I am truly grateful to the Premier Gospel Awards for this recognition. My faith has played a significant role in my journey, and it is an immense honor to receive this award…” Bukayo Saka
“I was deeply moved by receiving this award. I aspire to witness more gospel artists spreading such a positive message.” Kanya King CBE
“This is a great honor. I remember the early years when Premier Gospel believed in me and conducted interviews.” YolanDa Brown OBE
The Premier Gospel Awards achieved resounding success, uniting the gospel music community for a night filled with celebration and appreciation of its rich history and cultural impact. Attendees departed feeling inspired by the powerful performances and heartfelt speeches that underscored the significance of gospel music in today’s world.
“This moment marked a turning point for 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
