Brandon Lake Shines at 55th GMA Dove Awards with Heartfelt Wins and Humility

The 55th annual GMA Dove Awards, held at Nashville’s Lipscomb University, celebrated a variety of Christian music genres, including gospel, pop, and hip-hop, among others. CeCe Winans, Brandon Lake, and Forrest Frank emerged as major winners of the evening, with Winans receiving the prestigious Artist of the Year award. The event was noted for its emphasis on diversity and unity, as highlighted by GMA President Jackie Patillo and host Tauren Wells.

Brandon Lake had a standout night at the 55th GMA Dove Awards, winning two major awards: Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for Coat of Many Colors and Songwriter of the Year (Artist). In his acceptance speech for the album award, Lake expressed deep emotion, revealing that it was the accolade he most desired to win. He spoke about the honor of working with his collaborators and the profound impact their music has had on people’s lives, sharing how grateful he is to be surrounded by what he considers greatness. He humbly described his experience, saying, "I’m literally sitting here all night and just weeping... I'm surrounded by greatness."

Lake’s success in the contemporary Christian music scene has been built on his heartfelt songwriting and his ability to connect with listeners through songs of faith and worship. In addition to his Dove Awards, he’s become a prominent figure in Christian music for his worship leading and collaborations with well-known groups like Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music. His vulnerability in his performances and songwriting has garnered him a passionate fanbase, and his music has touched many lives.

Lake’s emotional reflections during the awards ceremony highlighted his humility, as he repeatedly mentioned how privileged he felt to work with such talented people and to witness the life-changing power of their music. His speech gave insight into his collaborative spirit and his dedication to using his platform to honor God, showing his genuine passion for ministry through music.

CeCe Winans, who also performed the opening number, expressed her humility and gratitude upon receiving the top honor. Brandon Lake, who won Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year and Songwriter of the Year (Artist), gave an emotional acceptance speech, reflecting on the impact of his collaborators. Other prominent winners included KB, who won Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year and honored his mother during his speech, and Forrest Frank, who took home New Artist of the Year.

The night also featured notable performances from artists like CAIN, Tye Tribbett, and Maverick City Music, who delivered powerful renditions of their songs. In addition, the award show honored Gospel music pioneers Bill and Gloria Gaither with the Jackie Patillo Award for Distinguished Leadership.

Chris Tomlin’s “Holy Forever” was named Song of the Year, and performances throughout the night highlighted the diversity of the Christian music community. The 56th GMA Dove Awards will be held in 2025 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.