For the first time in its 42-year history, the Dove Awards will take place outside of Tennessee, specifically at the Fox Theatre on April 20.
So how did Atlanta get the nod?
“We were looking for a place that was a true representation of all forms of gospel and Christian music,” said Ed Leonard, chairman of the board for the Gospel Music Association. “You’ve got Third Day, Casting Crowns, Karen Peck and New River, Chris Tomlin ... I don’t know if there is another city other than Nashville that represents Christian music in its entirety than [Atlanta].”
Leonard commented on the move shortly after a media conference Wednesday in the Fox’s Egyptian Ballroom to announce nominees in 18 of the Dove Awards’ 43 categories.
Tomlin and TobyMac lead the nominations with six each, including artist of the year for both. Jason Crabb, also up for artist of the year, follows with five and Francesca Battistelli nabbed four nominations, including female vocalist of the year.
Battistelli was on hand to reveal some of the contenders, as were members of Third Day (nominated for the song “Lift Up Your Face” and for rock/contemporary album for “Move”); Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae (nominated for the song “Background”); former “American Idol” finalist and multiple Dove winner Mandisa; and the trio of Kim Lord, Heather Day and Valerie Ruppe, who comprise the group Sisters.
The members of Third Day, which has won more than 20 Doves throughout its career, said they hope to present or perform on the show. Those artists are expected to be announced within the next two weeks.
“We’re very proud of being from Georgia and there is such a great community of Christian artists here,” said Third Day’s Tai Anderson, adding that he and the band were surprised – pleasantly – when they heard the Doves were moving to Atlanta.
Though there is no long-term plan for the location of the show, Leonard said he’s pleased with ticket sales so far and is “open to keeping the Doves in Atlanta.”
“We’re looking forward to a show as beautiful and inspiring as this venue,” he said.
Tickets for the Dove Awards, which will be hosted by Sherri Shepherd, are on sale now through all Ticketmaster outlets (www.ticketmaster.com) and the Fox box office for $25-$200.
The ceremony will air at 7 p.m. April 24 (Easter Sunday) on GMC.
Nominations were determined by members of the Gospel Music Association for recordings released between Nov. 1, 2009 and Oct. 31, 2010.
