Former Destiny’s Child members Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams took the stage over the weekend at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena to perform Michelle’s “Say Yes” at The Stellar Awards. The trio was tightlipped about their show-stopping reunion and although the show organizers had dropped a clue about a surprise performance, no one had any idea they would be reuniting.
Michelle Williams, Beyonce, and Kelly Rowland performing ‘Say Yes’
Celebrating 30 years, the Stellar Awards recognizes the year’s best gospel music performances and gathered the top performers in the genre for this annual celebration. Dubbed the greatest night in Gospel music, the event was co-hosted by husband and wife duo David Mann (“Mann & Wife”), Tamela Mann (“Sparkle”) and Ricky Smiley (“Dish Nation”).
Co-Hosts Rickey Smiley (L), Tamela Mann and David Mann speak onstage during the 30th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 28, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/FilmMagic)
Ten-time nominee Erica Campbell took top honors, winning six awards including Artist of the Year, The Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year and Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year. Ricky Dillard and New G followed Campbell with three wins, and Deitrick Haddon tied with The Walls Group for two trophies apiece. On stage after winning the Male Vocalist of the Year award, Haddon expressed gratitude for being recognized following a difficult time in his life.
Singers Israel Houghton (L) and Yolanda Adams perform onstage during the 30th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 28, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/FilmMagic)
“A couple of years ago I messed up so bad I thought I could never inspire anyone again,” he shared. “I was ready to quit and God spoke to me – He said, if you humble yourself I’ll lift you up to places you’re never seen. This award is for people who think it’s over for them.”
Dr. Bobby Jones speaks onstage during the 30th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 28, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Haddon later brought the house down with a star-studded rendition of “My City” collaborating with Dorinda Clark-Cole, Clareta Haddon, Kierra Sheard, J. Moss, 21:03 and Shelby Five. Co-host Tamela Mann also won the award for Special Event CD of the year for “Best Days Deluxe Edition.” The New Artist of the Year award was presented to Tasha Page-Lockhart, marking her first Stellar Awards appearance, performing “Great Is Your Love” and “Faith Come Alive,” with fellow first-timers The Walls Group. Other performances included Smokie Norful, Jonathan McReynolds, Erica Campbell and Pastor Beverly Crawford.
Ty Tribbett on the red carpet
Bishop Paul Morton received the Allstate James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award for his accomplishments and was honored in song by Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers with Zarcadi & Crystal singing a medley of “I’m Still Standing.” Al “The Bishop” Hobbs, received the Chevrolet Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legend Award for his career accomplishments in the radio industry.
Smokie Norful with his award
Yolanda Adams and Israel Houghton performed “How Awesome Is Our God” celebrating the life of Andrae Crouch who was honored posthumously with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award for his lifelong contributions to Gospel music.
Recording artist Deitrick Haddon speaks onstage during 30th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on March 28, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/FilmMagic)
The taped telecast will premiere on Easter Sunday, April 5 at 6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT on the cable network TV One.
Samantha Ofole-Prince serves as the Senior Entertainment Editor for Trendy Africa. She covers industry-specific news that includes television and film. (photos courtesy of CCP/FrontPage Firm)
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