Dr. Teresa Hairston Jackson Previews Stellar Awards Weekend

Jekalyn Carr sat down with Dr. Teresa Hairston Jackson — founder of the Gospel Industry Coalition and producer of the Stellar Awards pre-show — for an exclusive conversation recorded live at Atlanta’s Inspiration Station on Praise 102.5. What followed wasn’t just an interview. It was a front-row preview of gospel music’s most anticipated weekend of the year.

Mark your calendars. August 14th and 15th. Charlotte, NC.

What Is the 41st Stellar Awards?

The Stellar Awards is one of gospel music’s most celebrated annual events, honoring excellence across every corner of the genre. The 41st edition takes place August 15th in Charlotte, NC — also known as the Queen City. As Dr. Hairston Jackson noted in the interview, that name carries real weight: Queen Charlotte herself was a woman of color, and bringing gospel music’s biggest night to her city means something deeper than just a venue choice.

Stellar Awards CEO Don Jackson has already declared that this year has set a new bar. That’s not hype — that’s a promise.

What’s Happening the Night Before? The August 14th Pre-Show

The weekend officially kicks off on August 14th with a pre-show produced by Dr. Teresa Hairston Jackson. The evening unfolds in two powerful segments. First, a radio segment hosted by Griff and Destiny Diggs sets the tone. Then, the main pre-show — hosted by MAJOR., Adia, and Jamal Roberts — takes center stage.

And the lineup? It does not disappoint.

Kurt Carr will debut a brand-new, never-before-heard song. Dr. Hairston Jackson described it as “the new ‘In the Sanctuary'” — and if that doesn’t have you excited, it should.

The pre-show will also feature a 50-year tribute to Tyscot Records, the oldest gospel label in existence, with Kelontae Gavin, Shirley Murdoch, and surprise guests joining to celebrate five remarkable decades. And in a moment sure to move the room, the evening will include a tribute to the late Richard Smallwood, a legendary figure whose contribution to gospel music is immeasurable.

What Are the Stellar Plus Events?

Beyond the main show and pre-show, the Stellar Awards weekend is packed with Stellar Plus events — classes, seminars, sessions, and festival-style experiences designed to engage gospel lovers of every kind. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer, there’s something built for you.

Jekalyn Carr Is Making History

Here’s something you’ll want to see for yourself. Jekalyn Carr will serve as a presenter at the 41st Stellar Awards — and she’ll be doing something that has never been done in 41 years of Stellar Awards history. Dr. Hairston Jackson confirmed it in the interview, and Jekalyn herself hinted that this moment is unlike anything the show has seen before.

You don’t want to miss that moment.

Why the 41st Stellar Awards Reflects the Full Scope of Gospel Music

One of the most intentional aspects of this year’s show is its commitment to representing every corner of the gospel world. Dr. Hairston Jackson spoke passionately about making sure all sub-genres had a seat at the table — quartet, traditional, hip hop, contemporary, and children’s gospel. This is a show that celebrates gospel music in its full, glorious breadth.

That kind of intentionality matters. It says that gospel music is not one sound. It’s a family.

The Gospel Industry Coalition’s Growing Role

The Gospel Industry Coalition (GIC), founded by Dr. Teresa Hairston Jackson, has now been officially sanctioned by the Stellar Awards — a milestone that opens meaningful doors for the next generation of gospel entrepreneurs. The GIC exists to unite and empower gospel music industry leaders through education, exposure, and celebration. Its inclusion within the Stellar Awards framework signals a new era of support for those building careers within the gospel space. Learn more at gospelindustrycoalition.org.

Don’t Miss Gospel Music’s Greatest Weekend

This is your invitation. Get your tickets for the 41st Stellar Awards at stellarawards.com, and visit gospelindustrycoalition.org for pre-show tickets and Gospel Industry Coalition information. Charlotte is ready. Gospel music is ready. The only question is — are you?