Over the last few years Gospel music of African origin has gradually filtered into mainstream media and into the church with some notable songs crossing cultural and denominational boundaries. It is in appreciation of this phenomenal rise that musicians, music lovers, members of the religious, business and entertainment communities from all over the world will gather at the Stratford Circus Centre, London on the 3^rd of June 2017 to celebrate achievements that have been chalked over the years.   Confirmed artistes at this year’s event include award winning artistes such as  Joe Mettle (Ghana) Melina Ondjani (Gabon) Mike Aremu (Nigeria), UK artistes Evans & Purist Ogboi, Diana Hamilton Sarah Teibo and more artistes to be confirmed. Guests at this year’s ceremony will be treated to a production of an exhilarating celebration of African gospel music from all around the world, Mr. Charles Koranteng the founder of the awards and CEO of 1615 Media stated. He also intimated that ‘this years’ event will not only see the appreciation and rewarding of household names in gospel but go further in appreciating bloggers, online radio and TV stations as well as local church worship leaders who are pushing the gospel immensely in various ways’. Nominations in the 21 categories are opened until midnight the 21^st of March 2017 at www.africangospelmusicawards.com. Public Voting for the final nominees’ list will commence on the 21^st of March 2017 until midnight of the 21^st May 2017   This year’s awards was launched at a red carpet event on Saturday the 21st of January 2017 and present were some of gospel industry’s heavyweights including the station Director of Premier Gospel Radio and principal of Riversongz, Muyiwa Olanrewaju, Integrity music singer songwriter Noel Robinson, UK PR guru Marcia Dixon, Radio Presenter Lady T., Music Producer Shabach, SEO of Icon Towers Production Director Fred Williams, Serge Mpanzu (CEO of Prayz In Radio), and artistes Pita, Henrisoul, Isabella, Queen Patience, Dayo Bello Diana Hamilton, Anu Omedeyi, Shoggy Tosh, Hannah and P.K. Boadi. Guests were treated to performances by Papa Richie, Sarah Teibo, Jane Bossia and Emmanuel Smith-Tali.   According to the chairman of the board of Advisors, Dr Charles J. Buckman, the team is making sure that all arrangements are in place for a memorable day.   This year’s event is organised by 1615 Media and Events and supported by Premier Gospel Radio, ABN TV, ABN Radio, A Step Fwd Media Amen Radio and Maestro Creative.     AFRICAN GOSPEL MUSIC & MEDIA AWARDS 2017 CATEGORIES