In a world weary from division, turmoil, and cultural loss, one night this August promises a divine interruption — a celebration not only of music but of identity, resilience, and spiritual power. Mark your calendars: the 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards is coming, and it’s not just an awards show. It’s a cultural resurrection.

Premiering Saturday, August 30th at 8PM ET on the Stellar Network, and again on BET, Sunday, August 31st at 8PM ET, this milestone event is more than just its glittering stage. It’s a spiritual homecoming, and the world is invited.

✝️ OUR MUSIC. OUR VOICE. OUR CULTURE.

That’s the theme — and it’s not just words. It’s a declaration. It’s a rally cry. It’s the gospel community claiming its rightful place at the center of American music history.

Hosted by BeBe & CeCe Winans, legends in their own right, the 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards will unfold at Nashville’s historic Schermerhorn Symphony Center on August 16th, bringing together icons, newcomers, choirs, and congregations for what’s already being called “The Greatest Night in Gospel Music.”

And this year, the stakes feel higher. The performances feel weightier. Because after four decades of lifting voices, healing hearts, and empowering communities, the Stellars are no longer just honoring music — they are defending legacy.

🎶 A Stage Set with Fire & Faith

This year’s lineup is as heavenly as it is historic.

Newly announced performers include the soul-stirring voices of Jamal Roberts, Jonathan McReynolds, Nathan Davis Jr., Todd Dulaney, and the electrifying New Direction Gospel Choir of Tennessee State University. And gospel powerhouse Lisa Knowles-Smith promises to bring down the house.

They join previously announced legends and rising stars such as Donnie McClurkin, Jekalyn Carr, Dottie Peoples, Melvin Crispell III, Pastor Mike Jr., Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Tramaine Hawkins, William Murphy, and more.

Expect not just performances — expect testimonies through song. Expect to be moved.

🌟 Star-Studded and Spirit-Filled

It’s not just singers lighting up the night. This year’s presenters include beloved names like Lil Rel Howery, Dominique Perry, Isaac Carree, Trina Braxton, Dante Bowe, and others yet to be revealed.

And in a moment sure to draw tears, Stellar Awards founder Don Jackson will receive the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his vision, tenacity, and lifelong mission to elevate Black voices in gospel and beyond.

🎧 STELLAR PLUS: The Revival Before the Revelation

Ahead of the main event, the STELLAR PLUS Experience returns August 14–15 with two days of workshops, panels, and electrifying performances for both fans and industry insiders.

Presented by Amazon Music and the Recording Academy, this experience brings together innovators like Adam Blackstone, Avery Sunshine, Miles Minnick, and media voices like Griff, Just Nesh, and Kasaun Wilson. It’s where gospel’s future is being written — live and loud.

🤝 Backed by Powerhouses

The 40th Stellar Awards are supported by Procter & Gamble (P&G), along with sponsors like Walmart, Chevy, Olay, State Farm, AT&T, McDonalds, Tide, and St. Jude — showing that gospel music is not just spiritually important but economically powerful.

This isn’t fringe culture. This is the beating heart of America’s moral soundtrack.

📺 Where to Watch the Glory

Stellar Network – August 30 (8PM & 11PM EST)

BET – August 31 (8PM ET / 7PM CT)

Bounce TV – September 28 (1PM EST / 12PM CT)

Syndicated Broadcasts – September 6–28

Vizio & Xumo Play Streaming – Starting September 29

So wherever you are, you have no excuse to miss this divine appointment.

🕊️ More Than a Show — A Movement

The Stellar Gospel Music Awards isn’t just entertainment. It’s testimony. It’s healing. It’s power. It’s soul.

And in 2025 — at a time when the world is aching for meaning — the 40th celebration isn’t just about honoring gospel. It’s about reminding the world that gospel music is America’s original healing sound. It’s resistance in melody. It’s revolution in harmony. It’s revival in rhythm.

This August, turn on your screen. Turn up the volume. And prepare your spirit.

Because Gospel’s greatest night is about to make history — again.