City leaders announced Tuesday that Charlotte, N.C., will host the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, one of the most influential celebrations in gospel music. The announcement was made by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority in partnership with the Stellar Awards producers. Organizers say bringing the event to Charlotte reflects both the strength of the city’s faith community and its deep connections to gospel music and Black cultural expression. Pastor John P. Kee and Jekalyn Carr performed at today’s press conference.
“Bringing the Stellar Awards here is not only a natural fit, but it allows us to expand the reach and impact of gospel music in a city that embraces both tradition and innovation, especially gospel music,” said Don Jackson, founder of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards.
Established in 1985, the Stellar Awards has become the longest-running African American gospel music awards show on television and the premier gospel music event in the United States. The program reaches audiences nationwide through broadcasts on networks including BET, Bounce TV, and the Stellar Network.
The awards ceremony will be taped live at Spectrum Center on Saturday, Aug. 15. Prior to the show, there will be a multi-day celebration, Stellar Plus Week, taking place Aug. 12–14. Stellar Plus Week will feature a variety of events tied to the gospel music industry and its fans. Activities are expected to include master classes, soundstages, fashion shows, comedy showcases, and other interactive experiences.
State officials are also supporting the event, with North Carolina providing a $995,000 grant to help fund the festivities. According to reports, city leaders say securing the Stellar Awards represents a major win for Charlotte’s hospitality and tourism industries, bringing national media exposure and positioning the city as a destination for major cultural events.
Information about tickets, performers, and additional events for the Stellar Awards will be announced later.
