BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards - 2008

BMI honored gospel greats Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Mighty Clouds of Joy and Pastor Marvin Winans at its ninth Annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Luncheon on Friday, Jan. 11, 2008.

Songwriter Percy Bady was also honored for writing gospel's most-performed song of 2007, "Um Good," which was recorded by Smokie Norful.

Music abounded at the awards, with J. Moss, Kelly Price and Dave Hollister performing tributes to Vanessa Bell Armstrong. Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson and Rance Allen honored the Mighty Clouds of Joy and Pastor Marvin Winans was serenaded by Anthony Hamilton, Tommy Simms, Fred Hammond and Lowell Pye. Additional performances by Marvin Winans, Jr., Dorinda Clark Cole, Smokie Norful and an all-star choir led by Donald Lawrence led to the magic of the day.

BMI's Catherine Brewton praised the honorees, saying, "BMI is extremely proud of you and all that you do to advance the Kingdom of God through gospel music."