GMA Celebrates Honors and 2014 Hall of Fame Inductions

Michael W. Smith performs.

The Gospel Music Association gathered artists and industry executives last night (April 30) at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena to honor organizations and individuals who have impacted popular culture through gospel music. Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame inductees for the evening included Brown Bannister, Gaither Vocal Band, Rich Mullins and Take 6.

GMA Honors recipients include Dr. Bobby Jones, Don Moen, Michael Guido, Show Hope and World Vision. Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Michael W. Smith, Ellie Bannister Holcomb, David Crowder and Take 6 performed during the event. Grant, Gill, and Bannister Holcomb performed “El Shaddai” as Brown Bannister watched and recalled memories of working with Grant. “One encouragement to Christian artists is to tell the truth and be real,” he said.

Smith offered a rendition of “Awesome God,” written by the late Rich Mullins. Mullins’ brother David accepted the legend’s induction into the GMA Hall of Fame. David Crowder later paid tribute to the Gaither Vocal Band by performing “Because He Lives.” Inductee Bill Gaither said, “I love the art of music, but more importantly, I love the message we are able to share.”

“This evening has exceeded all expectations,” stated John Huie, co-chair and visionary of the GMA Honors. “The power of music was on display tonight. Our industry is full of individuals that share way more than music, they share themselves, their hearts and souls and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of it all.”

DC Talk present during the GMA Honors and Hall of Fame inductions

Ellie Bannister Holcomb, Amy Grant and Vince Gill perform.

GMA’s Jackie Patillo and GMA Honors co-chair John Huie.