Don Jackson Reflects on 40 Years of Stellar Gospel Music Awards

For four decades, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards has been a cornerstone event, celebrating the vibrant impact of gospel music. This year marks a significant milestone: the 40th anniversary of the awards, a testament to the vision of its creator, Don Jackson. Jackson, the founder of Central City Productions, recently shared his reflections on the genre’s evolution and the enduring legacy of the Stellar Awards.

Four Decades of Honoring Gospel Music

The 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards, held at Nashville’s historic Schermerhorn Symphony Center, was a night of profound celebration under the theme “Our Music Our Culture.” The event honored powerhouse choirs, chart-topping soloists, and emerging voices, featuring performances by artists like Jamal Roberts, Jonathan McReynolds, and Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Jackson himself was honored with the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting tribute to his decades of dedication.

Reflecting on the 40-year milestone, Jackson expressed his excitement and pride. “I’m excited that we can do a show like the Stellar Awards, and for it to survive for 40 years,” he told BLACK ENTERPRISE. “The excitement brings the hype and the support gospel music needs today. I’m just very pleased that we were able to play a part in that growth.”

The Significance of Nashville and the Winans

The choice of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville was intentional, aiming to elevate the audience experience. Jackson noted that hosting the awards there for the past three years has been a great way to celebrate the milestone. The decision to have BeBe & CeCe Winans as hosts was also deeply meaningful, as they were instrumental in the very first Stellar Awards production nearly 40 years ago.

“This is the very first time they are hosting as a duet, and it’s just magnificent for us to have them back together as co-hosts,” Jackson shared, highlighting the Winans’ significant role in the awards’ history.

Gospel Music’s Evolution and Future

Addressing the notion that gospel music might be losing relevance, Jackson believes it’s actually evolving and growing. He acknowledged shifts in the industry, like the reduced presence of shows like ‘Sunday Best’ and ‘Bobby Jones,’ but emphasized that gospel music remains a staple. Central City Productions is actively promoting platforms like the Stellar Awards and seeking opportunities to feature winners from choir competitions.

Jackson highlighted the Stellar Awards’ role in keeping gospel music’s tradition alive while incorporating contemporary elements, including traditional gospel, praise and worship, and even gospel hip-hop. He noted that other awards, like the Dove Awards, are also expanding their gospel categories, indicating a broader recognition of the genre.

As one of the few Black-owned television production companies, Central City Productions, alongside networks like TV One and figures like Byron Allen, plays a vital role in providing visibility for Black audiences and artists. Jackson expressed pride in their continued efforts to push forward and ensure the genre’s continued flourishing.