Darrel Walls Takes Artist of the Year at the 2026 Stellar Awards
The 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards put a broad Gospel field on one Charlotte stage — from established Motown Gospel names to independent releases.
Darrel Walls' Heart of Mine was named Artist of the Year at the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards, held August 15 at Charlotte's Spectrum Center. Alescia Knowles-Smith's “Promises (Live)” took Song of the Year.
The nominee field made the useful point before a trophy was handed out: current Gospel is not moving in one direction. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Tye Tribbett, Jekalyn Carr and Kim Person represented distinct approaches to live recording, church language and contemporary production.
Kirk Franklin hosted the ceremony, which continues its national television rollout across The Stellar Network, BET and broadcast syndication.
