The Dove Awards

Last night GMA celebrated their 48th Dove Awards as I celebrated my first!
The theme throughout the night was “Awards yes but honor God first”

For Todd and I the night started on the red carpet with Comedian Bone Hampton, who you might remember as the host of WonderJam.

Standing on the edge of the red carpet I must confess, I was a little excited. These are the artist we play everyday, we announce their names on air, we do our homework so the listeners can be better connected to them and their story. So yeah, I’m excited to see and meet the people who impact so many of our lives on daily basis.

Going into the Doves I wanted to meet one artist, MANDISA!!!!

Her openness and honesty with her struggle with depression and anxiety is something many of connect with. Her music will empower you while pointing you to Jesus Christ.

Although Mandisa has a Grammy and a few Dove Awards, on this night it was her turn to celebrate her mentor and friend CeCe Winans as a presenter…. and hangout with ME!

Pastor John Gray was also another favourite! John stars in his own Reality TV show and was enjoying the moment with family and friends on the red carpet.

Inside the arena I was blown away by the size of the stage. I love that feeling you get walking into an event and you can feel the anticipation in the atmosphere, this was nothing like Tooney Tuesdays at Rogers Centre for a Toronto Blue Jays game (the worst).

As Chris Tomlin waited for the awards to start fans and friends came by to say hi and pose for pictures. Chris was so gracious with everyone. Even following the show, as the stage was being torn apart, Chris and his wife took time for everyone. I couldn’t believe it!

If they gave away a Dove for the biggest pop from the audience it would have to go Zach Williams!

Zach is another artist who people can identify with. He has an incredible testimony of God‘s grace, something as Christians we’ve all received. His song Chain Breaker could be an anthem for all of our lives!