Gospel Music Association Announces Honors and Hall of Fame Inductions

The Gospel Music Association announced yesterday this year's honors and Hall of Fame Inductions. Among this year's honorees are Mark Lowry and The Bridge founded by Candy Christmas. The celebration will take place on Tuesday, May 5, 20115 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena.

Mark Lowry will be among this year's class of Hall of Fame inductees. He spent more than 20 years as baritone for the Gaither Vocal Band. He is just as well-known for his comedy. He also wrote "Mary Did You Know?" Now, he tours as a soloist, having recently joined forces with the Martins for the Music and Madness Tour.

Candy Christmas is an award-winning singer/songwriter with five recordings as a solo artist, and six GMA Dove awards to her credit. She is the third child of Joel and LaBreeska Hemphill. As founder and president of The Bridge, Inc, she has been working to feed and clothe Nashville's homeless population. Candy and her team of volunteers meet the physical and spiritual needs of more than 350 people each week.

Other Hall of Fame inductees include BeBe and CeCe Winans, Roland Lundy and Twila Paris. The GMA will honor Founding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Passion founded by Louie and Shelley Giglio and Porter’s Call founded by Al Andrews.

 John Huie, CAA and Co-Chair of GMA Honors states, “Last year’s inaugural event was an amazing evening of firsts for our industry. We have been encouraged by the many comments surrounding the ceremony and are thrilled to honor this year’s recipients.”

“The GMA Foundation is charged with observing our gospel music history and its trailblazers,” says Jackie Patillo, President of the GMA Foundation. “With the ongoing support from our music community, we can fulfill the mission to foster an appreciation for our heritage and its impact for generations to come. We, as always, thank all of those involved in helping make these special celebrations possible.”

You can read the full release from GMA here.