Motown Gospel had a strong showing at the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, with artists and affiliated releases connected to the label earning five wins, along with two major special recognitions during Gospel music’s biggest night.
The wins reflect the continued reach of the Motown Gospel family across traditional Gospel, contemporary Gospel, urban music and Christian hip-hop.
“Our artists continue to push Gospel music forward while remaining rooted in faith and authenticity,” said Walter Thomas, EVP of Motown Gospel. “We’re incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and grateful to the Stellar Awards for recognizing their impact.”
Among the night’s standout winners was GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Jonathan McReynolds, who earned two Stellar Awards connected to his collaboration with Jamal Roberts on “Still (Live).”
McReynolds was named Male Artist of the Year, while “Still (Live)” received the award for Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year.
Released through Motown Gospel and Life Room Label, the live recording brings McReynolds and Roberts together for a stirring declaration of faith, perseverance and trust in God.
JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise also added another Stellar Award to their legacy, taking home Choir of the Year for The Live Reunion: Washington, DC. The project celebrates the group’s musical history and ministry while showcasing the signature choir sound that has made Hairston and Youthful Praise a force in Gospel music.
Rising artist Adia earned Urban Single or Performance of the Year for the remix of “On The Way,” featuring Erica Campbell. Released through Rock City Media Group, the collaboration blends Gospel, R&B and urban influences with a message centered on faith and expectation.
Christian hip-hop artist JustCordell was also among the winners, earning Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year for his breakout track “Movin.” The energetic record highlights his contemporary approach to faith-based hip-hop and adds another dimension to the range of music represented among this year’s Stellar winners.
Beyond the competitive categories, two of Motown Gospel’s most recognizable artists received significant career honors.
GRAMMY Award-winning powerhouse Tasha Cobbs Leonard was presented with the Aretha Franklin Icon Award, recognizing her career, global influence and lasting impact on Gospel music.
Pastor Mike Jr. received the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award, honoring his continued influence within Gospel music and his ability to connect faith, culture and a contemporary sound.
Together, the five wins and two special honors highlight the range of artists and music associated with the Motown Gospel family and its continued presence across the evolving Gospel music landscape.
Complete List of Wins
Male Artist of the Year
Jonathan McReynolds
Still (Live) ft. Jamal Roberts
Motown Gospel / Life Room Label
Choir of the Year
JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise
The Live Reunion: Washington, DC
Motown Gospel / JamesTown Music
Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year
Jonathan McReynolds ft. Jamal Roberts
Still (Live)
Motown Gospel / Life Room Label
Urban Single or Performance of the Year
Adia featuring Erica Campbell
On The Way Remix
Rock City Media Group
Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year
JustCordell
Movin
Rock City Media Group
About Motown Gospel
Motown Gospel is one of the leading Gospel music companies in the industry, with more than two decades of chart-topping and award-winning artists, albums and songs.
A division of Capitol Christian Music Group and Universal Music Group, Motown Gospel’s roster includes Tasha Cobbs Leonard, William Murphy, Tye Tribbett, Pastor Mike Jr., Koryn Hawthorne, Ricky Dillard, JJ Hairston, Me’Kayla, Karen Clark Sheard and more.