BMI is set to honor the visionary minds behind the Gospel’s finest tunes at the esteemed 2024 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, slated to take place at Flourish Atlanta on Thursday, March 28. Revered as a luminary in the world of Gospel, the iconic evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole will be bestowed with the distinguished title of Trailblazer of Gospel, celebrating her remarkable half-century career and unparalleled influence within the genre and beyond. Notably, Jonathan McReynolds will be presented with the inaugural BMI Champion Award, a testament to his extraordinary artistry and transformative impact on Gospel music. Steering this exclusive affair will be none other than BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.
Brewton expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re ecstatic to honor the talented songwriters and publishers of the BMI family for their invaluable contributions to Gospel music and its community. Dorinda Clark-Cole embodies the essence of a Gospel music pioneer. As a member of The Clark Sisters, she has left an indelible mark on the genre with her distinctively soulful sound. We take immense pride in recognizing her monumental achievements and the profound influence she has exerted through her music and ministry. Equally deserving of accolades is Jonathan McReynolds, whose music resonates as anthems of life, touching hearts far and wide. This event promises to be a celebration of faith, camaraderie, and unparalleled musical talent.”
The ceremony will also spotlight the songwriters, producers, and music publishers behind the 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States over the past year. Among the highlights of the event will be the announcement of the BMI Gospel Song, Songwriter, and Publisher of the Year, adding to the inspirational fervor of the occasion.
Dorinda Clark-Cole, affectionately hailed as the “Rose of Gospel Music,” boasts a multifaceted career as an award-winning singer/songwriter, talk show host, and globally recognized evangelist. Raised in Detroit within the illustrious lineage of choral director Mattie Moss Clark, she soared to fame as a member of The Clark Sisters, delivering chart-topping hits like “Blessed & Highly Favored” and “You Brought The Sunshine.” With a plethora of accolades including multiple GRAMMY Awards and Stellar Gospel Music Awards, Dorinda’s impact reverberates across generations, culminating in prestigious honors such as the Lifetime Achievement Award at the GRAMMYs
and induction into the Black Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame.
Jonathan McReynolds, a native of Chicago’s Southside, found his musical calling within the church, crafting songs that echo the profound truths of Gospel. Garnering critical acclaim with albums like Make Room and People, he clinched a GRAMMY Award for his stirring single “Moving On.” Beyond his musical endeavors, McReynolds holds a Ma
ster of Arts in Biblical Studies and is the visionary behind Elihu Nation, a nonprofit organization empowering youth through scholarships.
As the curtains rise on this momentous event, BMI pays homage to the luminaries of Gospel music, celebrating their enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to spreading the message of hope and redemption through the power of song.
