National gospel awards show slated for June 2026

JANS – The 18th Annual Rhythm of Gospel Awards is set to take place June 17-21, 2026, in Raleigh, NC. The weekend is filled with a variety of innovative and exciting showcases, competitions, exhibits, and achievement galas, bringing in over 3,500 excited tourists; church, social and civic groups; families; and business professionals. 

This televised award show is the third largest gospel awards show in the nation and is currently the largest national independent gospel award platform to cover the entire United States, Canada, and various international regions worldwide. This event was designed to give gospel artists both a national platform and a positive collaboration which supports all ethnicities in various genres of gospel music.  

Each year the Rhythm of Gospel Awards Show highlights over 65 categories of recognition through various Churches and Religious Groups, Business/Community Leaders, and Gospel Artists, giving them the opportunity to network formally while congratulating trailblazers from various sectors of the community and music industry. 

This year’s theme for the week is “I Survived It”,  a tribute to cancer survivors.  A portion of the proceeds will go to two charitable organizations that contribute to or provide services for cancer survivors.

ENTERTAINMENT/

IMPACT

The festivities hosted at the Rhythm of Gospel Awards Show will feature over 100 different local, regional, and national musical acts from Alternative Christian Rock, Southern Gospel, Traditional, Contemporary, Gospel Hip Hop, Urban, and Folk to Cool Jazz and Hot Tejano Rhythms. Dedicated to enhancing the full experience for thousands of tourists, this event has increased revenue for restaurants, hotels, shopping facilities, retail registration opportunities, recruitment opportunities for local colleges, churches, and on-site vendors.

Contributions to the independent gospel music industry have been one of the best-kept secret in America. 

The following pastors/or artists will be representing Mississippi this year: 

2026 Top Pastor of 

Excellence Honoree

Pastor Porter Ross Jr. – Mars Hill COGIC – (Jackson). And among the Mississippi nominees are: DOXA Muziq (statewide), Missy Coates (Starkville), Kelli Young Hart (Jackson), and New Bethel Jesus Name Church (Jayess). Jackson, MS representatives are: Curtis Shears – Senior Executive Board Member and Gloria “Glo” Thompson –Executive Board.