Gospel Star Winans Nabs 8 Stellar Noms

10/24/2003 8:57 PM, Reuters
Lisa Collins

Vickie Winans' star-studded Detroit celebration of her 50th birthday came with an unexpected gift -- an armful of Stellar Gospel Award nominations.

With eight nominations each, Winans and Deitrick Haddon lead the field of this year's Stellar contenders.

They will compete for artist of the year, song of the year and CD of the year.

Winans is also up for female vocalist, contemporary female vocalist and music video honors. Haddon's nods include male vocalist and contemporary CD.

Other acts scoring multiple nominations include Mary Mary (with six, including artist of the year) and John P. Kee, Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker and Lee Williams, all of whom pocketed five apiece. Of McClurkin's five noms, two came in the same category, music video of the year. Karen Clark-Sheard and Trin-i-tee 5:7 each have three nods.

In the category of new artist of the year, Rizen will square off against Ramiyah in a field that includes Debra Killings and Daughters of the Promise.

McClurkin, Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams are set to host the 19th annual Stellar Awards, scheduled for Jan. 10 in Houston.

Reuters/Billboard