"The Gospel Music Association is proud to celebrate this year’s Hall of Fame inductees and to recognize the philanthropy of our worthy honorees,” said GMA president Jackie Patillo. “GMA Honors is a great opportunity for our music community to come together and commemorate our trailblazers as well as those who are giving back to help make life better for others."

For 38 years, the GMA Foundation has honored well-deserving individuals and groups through an annual induction ceremony into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame.  Artists are eligible for inclusion in the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame after 25 years of participation in music and ministry. Nominees are chosen by GMA's Hall Of Fame Committee which is comprised of historians & industry leaders from the various gospel music genres. Inductees are selected by 200 electors from across the industry in four categories: CCM, Gospel, Southern Gospel and Non-Performing. Nominees can be submitted year-round for consideration by the public at www.gospelmusichalloffame.org.

The event also celebrates current individuals and organizations within the gospel music community that are making significant contributions to the world through their humanitarian efforts as well as their talents. Read full bios for the inductees and honorees here.

Join the social conversation at #GMAHonors.

About Gospel Music Association & Foundation: 

Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the Gospel through music of all styles. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, The GMA Hall of Fame Induction and Honors Ceremony and the IMMERSE Conference. For more on supporting the GMA or becoming a member, please visit www.gospelmusic.org.