Verity Gospel Music Group landed 5 Stellar Gospel Music Awards during the taping this weekend at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. Four of those awards went toKirk Franklin, who won the Song of the Year (“I Smile”), CD of the Year (Hello Fear), Producer of the Year (Hello Fear) and Contemporary CD of the Year categories. The fifth award went to Deitrick Haddon in the Music Video of the Year – Long Format category.
Kirk Franklin opened the show with a fast-moving medley of his latest hits “God Like You” and “I Smile.” The production-packed number was a visual and aural display of Franklin’s innovation and included a dance number and 21 piece string orchestra. The audience was delighted to see industry favorite Fred Hammond, who performed his new single “I Feel Good” for the first time, and Richard Smallwood & Vision provided a memorable performance of “Trust Me.” Additionally, Verity artists Byron Cage, Jason Nelson and Deon Kipping presented the Female Vocalist of the Year award.
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