HBCU gospel choirs will receive a new national spotlight at the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards.The Stellar Awards introduced HBCU Choir of the Year as a new category for 2026. The award will honor collegiate gospel choirs from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.The winner will be announced on Aug. 15, 2026, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The show will be hosted by gospel superstar Kirk Franklin.The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will honor artists, songwriters, musicians and rising voices across gospel music.Central City Productions announced nominees across 31 categories, plus six Gospel Radio categories. The show will tape live in Charlotte under the theme “Feels Like Home.”Each of the HBCU choir nominee brings a strong musical legacy to the category.Howard Gospel Choir has long been one of the most recognized collegiate gospel choirs in the country. Meanwhile, Morgan State University Choir has built a national and international reputation for excellence.NC A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir represents one of the largest HBCU campuses in the nation. Southern University Gospel Choir brings the tradition and energy of Baton Rouge to the field. Fort Valley State University Choir adds another proud HBCU voice from Georgia.Some of the nominated choirs also include featured artists. Howard’s nomination includes Damien Sneed & The Levites and Kierra Sheard Kelly. Southern University’s nomination includes Cameron Blain. Fort Valley State’s nomination includes Loren Michelle and Tiffany Boone.The new HBCU Choir of the Year category gives long-overdue recognition to HBCU gospel music.For decades, HBCU choirs have shaped the sound of gospel music. They have also trained singers, musicians, directors and worship leaders.In addition, these choirs often serve as cultural ambassadors for their schools. They perform at convocations, homecomings, churches, national events and community celebrations.Now, the Stellar Awards will place that tradition on one of gospel music’s biggest stages.
