The Gospel Music Association (GMA) Foundation has announced its inductees and honorees for the annual GMA Honors Celebration. Hezekiah Walker, Howard Rachinski, The Nelons and Russ Taff are being inducted into the Hall of Fame on May 10 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena.

The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting culture both past and present. This year's honorees include Catherine Brewton for Hope for Harvest, Jars of Clay for Blood:Water Mission, Michael W. Smith for Rocketown and Gospel Music Trust Fund.

John Huie, co-chair of GMA Honors and Creative Artists Agency, celebrates how far the event has come in such a short time.

“It is both humbling and exciting to see this special evening continue to grow,” Huie said. “In just three years, this event has become one of the highlights of the year for the gospel and Christian music industry. It is a great way to gather a lot of wonderful people for a night of celebration.”

Inductee Hezekiah Walker—gospel singer, composer and choir leader—and the Love Fellowship Choir (LFC) have received numerous accolades, including Dove awards and GRAMMYs. Together, Walker and LFC have influenced the sound of a generation. As bishop of Love Fellowship Tabernacle Church, his staunch message and innovative sound have earned him the moniker “Pastor of Hip Hop.”

Rachinski is president and CEO of Christian Copyright Licensing Inc. (CCLI) and founder of the Church Copyright License. CCLI is serving approximately 250,000 churches in 28 countries. Rachinski is also a contributing editor to Worship Leader and has received numerous honors for his leadership in the gospel music industry, including the GMA’s Impact Award in 1994.

The Nelons, formerly known as The Rex Nelon Singers, was formed in 1977 and has seen a series of changes in the group. In 1980, The Nelons achieved a rare accomplishment in the music industry as the group's song “Come Morning” hit the No. 1 slot three times in nonconsecutive months.

Taff was initially known as “the voice” of the legendary Imperials and eventually forged a successful solo career. He was instrumental in broadening the audience for Christian music and was hailed by Billboard magazine as “the single most electrifying voice in Christian music.” He has received numerous accolades, including five GRAMMY awards and nine GMA Dove Awards.

• Prev
• Next