05/11/2026
2026 GOSPEL MUSIC FAN AWARDS
Christian Voice Magazine presented the 2026 Gospel Music Fan Awards on the final evening of the 22nd annual Gospel Music FanFair, held May 7–9. The night was filled with energy and heartfelt celebration as fans, artists, and industry leaders gathered to honor those who share the Gospel through music.
Christian Voice Magazine Executive Editor John Lanier and Director of Advertising Margie Tanner hosted the ceremony, with Christine J. Scott, head of the art department, serving as presenter.
To the delight of an enthusiastic audience, the evening featured performances by Wings of Love, Michael Knight, Melissa Evans, Delnora, The Southern Plainsmen, and Higher Purpose, each bringing their unique style of ministry to the stage.
A special highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Peggy Inks, honoring her more than four decades of service, music, and ministry. At 94 years young, Mrs. Inks received a standing ovation as the audience celebrated her enduring legacy.
Awards were presented in multiple categories, with several artists earning top recognition. Wings of Love, Michael Knight, and The Southern Plainsmen were among the evening’s most celebrated winners, each taking home multiple honors.
Christian Voice Magazine congratulates all the winners and expresses gratitude to the artists, fans, and supporters who continue to uplift Gospel music across the nation.
LIFETIME ACHEIVEMENT AWARD
PEGGY INKS
Favorite Southern Gospel Group
Southern Plainsmen Quartet
Favorite Country Gospel Group
Wings of Love
Favorite Bluegrass Gospel Group
Willie Wells & the Blue Ridge Mountain Grass
Favorite Southern Gospel Duet
Rock & Tamie Smith
Favorite Country Gospel Duet
Terry & Debra Luna
Favorite Southern Gospel Soloist
Tammy Caldwell
Favorite Country Gospel Soloist
Victoria Steelman
Favorite Male Vocalist
David Smith
Favorite Female Vocalist
Christine J. Scott
Horizon Male
Ken Mobley
Horizon Female
Donna Burke
Horizon Southern Gospel Group
Greater Purpose
Horizon Country Gospel Group
Buried by the Crossroads
Horizon Bluegrass Gospel Group
Tim Raybon Band
Favorite Crossover Artist
Hammond Brothers
Favorite Comedian
Mickey Bell
Favorite Band
Small Town Sunday
Favorite Musician
Johnathan Presnell
Favorite Songwriter
Don Stiles
Favorite Album
Something Out of Nothing – Wings of Love
Favorite Video
He Loves the Broken – Melissa Evans
Favorite Song
Somebody’s Praying – Michael Knight
Favorite Radio Station
New Journey Radio
Favorite Radio Personality
Keith Barkley
Favorite TV Show
Texas Country Gospel
Favorite Website
newjourneyradio.com
Radio Promoter of the Year
Stephanie Hager – SGH Promotions
Concert Promoter of the Year
Dennis Williams
Producer of the Year
Rocky Smith
Faithful Servant
Jacky Jack White
Living Legend
Ava Kasich
www.gospelmusicfanfair.com
GMFF Gospel Music Fanfair
Wilds And Associates
The New Sound of Southern Gospel Music radio station to motivate, encourage, and uplift you on your journey. New Journey Radio is a non profit 501c3 company.
