President Neil Portnow presented the gospel music legend with The Recording Academy President’s Merit Award, an award she feels privileged to have received.

“It is a tremendous honor to be associated with the outstanding company of honorees at the GRAMMY Salute to Gospel Music,” says Patty. “It was a joy to be apart of a celebration that was all about the heritage of our music. Gospel music was born because a story needed to be told. That story is about God’s faithfulness, no matter what life may bring. I’m humbled to be a vessel for such an important story.”

Prior to Patty’s appearance on stage, contemporary Christian artist Natalie Grant performed one of Patty’s classics “Love In Any Language.” Following Grant’s performance, Avalon, the Christian vocal quartet sang “Another Time, Another Place,” all in tribute to the honoree. The evening continued with powerful concerts as the legendary singer herself wowed the audience when she performed Dottie Rambo’s “We Shall Behold Him.”

Other artists who entertained throughout the night were gospel singer Rance Allen, gospel artist Kim Burrell, gospel singer/composer/arranger Maurette Brown Clark, honorees Edwin and Walter Hawkins, two-time GRAMMY winner Patti LaBelle and gospel composer/pianist/arranger Richard Smallwood.

The GRAMMY Salute To Gospel Music event honors those who have made significant contributions to gospel music, while supporting the history and importance of the genre. The Recording Academy® President's Merit Award recognizes the contributions that key individuals have made in the music industry and the impact their efforts have had on music and the business of music.

Patty continues to stay strong touring across the country with Women of Faith while performing and sharing her testimony. For more information on Patty please visit www.sandipatty.com or www.myspace.com/sandipatty

Sandi Patty
Being the most award-winning female vocalist in the Christian Music industry, Sandi Patty released her 30th recording May 13, 2008 titled Songs For The Journey. This album features a duet with Shelia Walsh and another duet with husband Don Pesli. Patty has won 39 Dove Awards, five Grammy Awards, four Billboard Music Awards and is a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. She has released 24 albums over the last 26 years, selling more than 11 million unites, RIAA has certified three of her recordings platinum and five of them gold. Patty has appeared on The Tonight Show, 7th Heaven, E! Entertainment, Dr. Phil, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and most recently appeared on Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

Sandi Patty receives her award from Neil Portnow

Left to right Neil Portnow, honorees Michael Winans, Carvin Winans, honoree Sandi Patty, honoree Marvin Winans, honorees Edwin and Walter Hawkins

Left to Right Sandi Patty, Neil Portnow, Natalie Grant and Maurette Brown