The first Limpopo Gospel Awards was launched during an event at the Fusion Lodge in Polokwane last Friday.
The awards are funded by the National Lottery Commission, Limpopo Department of Sport Arts and Culture, Limpopo Tourism Agency, Audi Polokwane and many more. The event will take place on 1 December at the Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane. The nominees will be announced on 10 November during a ceremony in Polokwane.
According to one of the organisers, Mr Agustine Nethononda, the aim of the upcoming awards is to recognize, promote and reward artists who pride themselves on singing gospel music. It is also aimed at improving worship music.
"This launch makes me very proud that our gospel music is finally going to gain a good reputation and dignity and the artists themselves are going to be recognised and promoted. I think this is very good for the development of the music industry in this province. CDs eligible for the contest must be released between March 2017 and August 2018.
The winners of the different categories will receive R10 000 and trophies. The categories are: Best gospel artist of the year, Best gospel song of the year, Best gospel album of the year, Best female artist of the year, Best male artist of the year, Best gospel worship song, Best gospel praise song, Best Amazon/Traditional Gospel Artist/Album of the year, Best gospel collaboration song, Best gospel hit single and Best gospel newcomer of the year.
