Hip-hop came to church at the 24th Annual Stellar Awards. 

Da T.R.U.T.H. won the Rap/Hip-Hop Gospel Album of the Year Stellar Award for his album Open Book.  Fresh off his win, the rapper showed the audience why he took home the prize by performing his single “That Great Day.”

Kirk Franklin, who won the award for Urban/Inspirational Single/Performance of the Year, also performed.  He did a musical tribute to the Rev. Timothy Wright, who was critically injured last year in a car crash that killed is wife and grandson.

Marvin Sapp lead the pack with eight wins, including Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.  Marvin’s Thirsty album netted him the CD of the Year Award, while “Never Would Have Made It” earned him Song of the Year.

Ceremony co-host Dorinda Clarke Cole snagged the award for Female Vocalist of the Year.  Newcomer Jessica Green walked away with the New Artist of the Year Award.

Clifton Davis, Sherri Shepherd and Mario were all on hand for the live taping of the ceremony. 

You can catch The 24th Annual Stellar Awards when it airs March 1 on the Gospel Music Channel.
 

-- Sonya Eskridge