For the Spring 2008 issue of gospel’s IAM Magazine, two of my photos from this year’s Stellar Awards are on the cover. There’s also a two-page spread inside (pages 34-35), featuring some of my images from backstage at the awards show in Nashville. Thanks to Val and Jerry for selecting my images to be published! You can check out this issue online here. For more info about IAM Magazine, visit their website at www.iammag.com.

The Stellar Gospel Music Awards weekend was once again a success in Nashville, Tennessee. I had the chance to photograph some of Central South Distribution's gospel events at Gibson Showcase. Several artists performed Friday afternoon including Martha Munizzi and Norman Hutchins. Later that night was the nominee reception where all of the Stellar Award nominees were called to the stage and acknowledged. At the awards show taping, fans and artists were treated to a night of good gospel music. Performers at the taping included Kirk Franklin, The Rance Allen Group, The Clark Sisters, Fred Hammond, Beverly Crawford, DeWayne Woods, Marvin Sapp, Ricky Dillard, Smokie Norful, and others.

• Stellar Awards Results (gospelflava.com)

David Mann from Tyler Perry's 'Meet the Browns' hosting Central South's gospel showcase

Martha Munizzi Performing at Central South's gospel showcase

Co-hosts Tye Tribbett & Vicki Winans share a laugh with Dr. Bobby Jones at the nominee reception

Vicki Winans and Benson after the nominee reception

The Clark Sisters, recipients of Artist of the Year, Group/Duo of the Year, CD of the Year, and Traditional Group/Duo of the Year awards

Tramaine Hawkins, winner of two Stellar Awards and the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award

Rance Allen and Kirk Franklin performing at the post-awards reception

Dorinda Clark-Cole performing at the post-awards reception

Stay tuned for photos from the 2008 Stellar Awards! Benson Blake Photography will be closed January 10-14 to attend the weekend’s events at Nashville’s Opryland Hotel and Grand Ole Opry. I will be providing coverage for GospelFruits.org for the 3rd year and serve as a contributing photographer to other Gospel industry media outlets. Kirk Franklin, Byron Cage & CeCe Winans will co-host the taping on Saturday, January 12, 2008.

• Photos
• 23rd Annual Stellar Awards
  (ticket info, TV listings)