Kirk Franklin Hosts 2026 Stellars; Nominations Revealed

Kirk Franklin To Host 2026 Stellar Awards; Nominations Revealed

Get ready, gospel family! The biggest night in gospel music is officially on the way, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of praise, culture, and community. The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards are heading to the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Taking the stage to guide us through the night is none other than gospel icon Kirk Franklin. Returning as host, Franklin shared his excitement: “It is truly an honor to return as host… I’m excited to join the gospel music family in Charlotte as we celebrate another historic year of excellence, innovation and ministry through song.”

For our radio family, the celebration starts early. On Friday, August 14, the Carolina Theatre will host the Stellar Awards Pre-Show and the Gospel Radio Awards. This event is where we celebrate the voices who keep gospel spinning on the airwaves.

When it comes to the music, the nominations are packed with powerhouses. Leading the pack this year with seven nominations each are the legendary John P. Kee and the phenomenal Kim Person. Right behind them, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise secured six nominations apiece.

Two of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards biggest categories are stacked with incredible talent:

Artist of the Year

Darrel Walls (Heart of Mine)
Jekalyn Carr (Jekalyn X The Legends)
Kim Person (Reflections)
Tasha Cobbs Leonard (TASHA)
Tye Tribbett (Only on the Road (Live))

Album of the Year

Heart of Mine – Darrel Walls
Jekalyn X The Legends – Jekalyn Carr
Reflections – Kim Person
TASHA – Tasha Cobbs Leonard
The Church I Grew Up In – John P. Kee

Whether you love powerful choir sounds or contemporary praise, this year highlights the incredible depth of talent in our community. Who do you think will bring home wins during the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards? Click here to check out the full list of nominees!