GMA Dove Awards 2026 Reveals First Performers and Presenters, Introduces New Community Impact Honor

Nashville, Tennessee — September 13, 2026 — The Gospel Music Association is preparing for a powerful celebration of Christian and Gospel music as the 57th Annual GMA Dove Awards announces its first lineup of performers and presenters. This year’s ceremony will also introduce a new award honoring faith-driven community impact beyond the music industry.

The highly anticipated event will feature performances from some of Christian music’s most recognized voices, including Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Tauren Wells, and TobyMac. The first group of presenters will include Anthony Brown, CeCe Winans, for KING + COUNTRY, Julie Chen Moonves, and Lisa Knowles Smith.

More performers and presenters are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, adding to the excitement surrounding Christian music’s biggest night.

A New Award Celebrating Faith in Action

One of the highlights of this year’s GMA Dove Awards will be the introduction of the Community Impact Award for Peace & Purpose, presented by Jesus Calling.

Inspired by the legacy and faith-centered message of Sarah Young, the award will recognize an organization making a meaningful difference through its work beyond the music industry.

The inaugural honor will be presented to God Behind Bars, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to sharing the hope of Jesus Christ with incarcerated individuals and their families.

Through worship, community, and discipleship, God Behind Bars works to help people encounter faith and discover opportunities for transformation. The organization’s ministry reflects the power of the Gospel to bring hope, encouragement, and purpose to lives in difficult circumstances.

Emmy Award-winning television personality Julie Chen Moonves, longtime host of Big Brother, will introduce and present the award to God Behind Bars during the ceremony.

When and Where to Watch

The 57th Annual GMA Dove Awards will take place on October 6, 2026, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The event is presented in partnership with the Cantinas Arts Foundation.

Tickets are currently available for fans who want to attend the celebration in person. The Music City Fan Experiences are sold out, while fans interested in attending in 2027 can join the waiting list.

For viewers at home, the ceremony will air exclusively on TBN and the TBN+ app on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Eastern Time. The broadcast will also be simulcast on SiriusXM The Message.

An encore presentation is scheduled for Friday, October 16, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Eastern Time on TBN and the TBN+ app.

Celebrating Christian Music and the Gospel

The GMA Dove Awards continue the Gospel Music Association’s mission to celebrate excellence in Christian music, honor influential artists, and encourage the next generation of creators.

Since 1964, the Gospel Music Association has worked to promote and celebrate the Gospel through music, supporting artists and industry professionals through education, advocacy, and connection.

As the 57th Annual GMA Dove Awards approaches, the celebration will shine a spotlight on the artists, ministries, and organizations using their gifts to share the message of Christ.

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