The voices of gospel legends and today’s up-and-coming gospel music stars shook the rafters of Taglyan Cultural Complex on February 28 for the 3rd Annual Gospel Goes to Hollywood Awards Luncheon. The ceremony honored several stars specially chosen for their moving stories of faith an influential cultural voices.
Film and television star Louis Gossett Jr., best known for his Best Supporting Actor Oscar win for An Officer and a gentleman and his Emmy-winning performance as Fiddler in the iconic TV miniseries “Roots”, was recognized for his work in Hollywood and in the church with a special award.
Other honorees included NAACP Image Award nominated director and producer Bentley Kyle Evans, and husband and wife entertainment team David and Tamela Mann. Tamela and David are gospel singers and accomplished actors who first met as singers for Kirk Franklin and the Family, worked together on a number of Tyler Perry projects, and recently celebrated 26 years of marriage. The panel of presenters included actor Phillip Morris and Essence Magazine’s Mikki Taylor.
The awards luncheon was hosted by Pastor Donnie McClurkin, a three-time Grammy award-winning gospel recording artist, and produced by Tomeka B. Holyfield of the Helpppp Agency, a charitable events coordinator.
In addition to an awards ceremony, the Gospel Goes Hollywood luncheon always benefits a charitable cause as service to the needy is an important part of living one’s faith. This year’s event served as a fundraiser and awareness platform to assist women and children who survive or need help escaping domestic violence, and to reduce the prevalence and acceptance of family violence in the community. Tameka Holyfield, an outspoken survivor of childhood domestic violence herself, and Donnie McClurkin have collaborated on several gospel industry and community fundraising events benefiting this vital cause.
Other highlights of the event included musical performances by award-winning gospel stars Stephen B. Steward, The Showers, Jessica Reedy, and a surprise performance by McClurkin, Tamela Mann, and Grammy-nominated R&B vocalist and songwriter Kelly Price.
Venue owner Gary Taglyan said of the event, “It’s a privilege to work with so many great individuals for such a wonderful cause.”
Taglyan Cultural Complex’s state-of-the-art sound system, opulent dining and conference space, and in-house catering service made it the perfect choice for a luncheon ceremony with such a strong focus on music. Contact us to inquire about hosting your awards ceremony, honors banquet, or performance.