Episode 177. Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Stellars

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, this episode of The Corelink Solution brings you an inside look at a historic moment in gospel music. Host James Rosseau, also known as Trig, sits down with Jennifer Jackson, President and COO of the Stellars, to talk about the legacy, evolution, and cultural impact of this iconic event. From honoring gospel greats to amplifying new voices, discover how the Stellars continue to shape and uplift the community.

The Genesis of the Stellar Awards

The Stellar Gospel Music Awards, based in Chicago, have been a pivotal force in gospel music for four decades. Jennifer shares stories from Don Jackson, the founder, about how an event at the A-G-M-W-A with his pastor inspired the birth of the awards. It was a moment of passion and vision sparked by the moving gospel music that laid the foundation for what would become an iconic awards show, celebrating gospel music’s profound impact over the years.

Reflecting on Four Decades of Gospel Excellence

As the awards enter their 40th year, Jennifer reflects on the legacy and influence the show has had in shaping the gospel music landscape. Despite challenges like pandemics and rapid industry changes, the Stellar Awards have stood the test of time, showcasing the evolution of gospel music from legends like James Cleveland and Hawkins Singers to modern stars like Pastor Mike Jr.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

Jennifer discusses the art of curating a seamless mix of traditional and contemporary gospel music within the awards show. Creating a program that caters to a diverse audience involves balancing genres, from the timeless choirs of Ricky Dillard to the energetic beats of Christian hip hop. The goal is to provide an engaging experience that has everyone clapping, dancing, and celebrating the richness of gospel music.

The Stellar Plus Experience

The Stellar Plus Experience offers attendees more than just an award show. It is an immersive dive into gospel music’s diverse facets. This year’s experience will feature master classes, an unplugged concert, fashion events, fireside chats, and comedy shows at the host hotel, the Sheridan Grant Hotel in Nashville. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of learning and community engagement, encouraging attendees to integrate and share their stories.

The Role of Christian Hip Hop

With a large following of Christian hip hop listeners, Trig discusses the depth and talent within this genre, highlighting the community’s need to show up and support related events. Jennifer candidly shares challenges in balancing representation across genres and emphasizes the importance of demonstrating demand, hinting at ambitious ideas for targeted shows in the future.

A Call to Action

Jennifer encourages everyone to visit stellars awards.com for detailed information on the main event, Stellar Plus Experience, and to buy tickets. She also invites feedback on what audiences want to see and learn, fostering a more inclusive and engaging experience for all attendees.

Exciting Awaits – Closing Notes

In a delightful reveal, Jennifer announces that this year’s hosts will be the legendary duo of CC and BB Winans. What a fitting way to celebrate the Stellar Awards’ 40-year journey. Their potential performance alongside other Living Winans promises to be memorable.

Join Jennifer Jackson and James Rosseau in celebrating gospel music’s past, present, and future. Don’t miss this historic event; head to stellar awards.com now for tickets and join the grand celebration. Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing this incredible journey with us on The Corelink Solution.

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TIMESTAMPS

Celebrating 40 Years of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards with Jennifer Jackson

Join James Rosseau, aka Trig, on The Corelink Solution for an engaging discussion with Jennifer Jackson, President and COO of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Learn about the rich history and exciting future of the awards show, celebrating its 40th anniversary. Discover the balance of traditional and contemporary gospel styles and the importance of community engagement, plus details on the Stellar Plus Experience events. Don’t miss this insight into one of gospel music’s most prestigious events.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:16 Meet Jennifer Jackson: President of Stellar Gospel Music Awards 00:41 The Birth of the Stellar Awards 01:37 Celebrating 40 Years of Stellar Awards 02:45 Curating the Stellar Awards Show 05:31 The Stellar Plus Experience 07:37 Christian Hip Hop and the Stellar Awards 09:54 Challenges and Future of the Stellar Awards 14:55 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events