A Macon gospel group is up for big award. How supporters can vote for them

The 30th annual Gospel Choice Music Awards will take place in Atlanta in June, but less than 100 miles away from the event lies Macon, a city that’s no stranger to gospel music.

Over 580 gospel singers from around the world were nominated in more than 30 categories this year, with The Anointed Ones of Macon claiming a Best Gospel Group/Duo Artist of the Year nomination for the second time.

Lead vocalist and founder Sobe Thomas said they are hoping to bring home their second award, as it will be another reason to celebrate the group’s upcoming 20th anniversary in November.

“This is our second nomination. We have one win, and prayerfully, this one will be a win,” he said.

The five-member, family-oriented group won the same category when the ceremony was held at the Macon City Auditorium in 2011.

Despite losing original group members, Thomas said the group is still growing strong and remaining relevant in the Macon community, where gospel is a heavy part of the culture.

“A lot of people in Macon are into faith. There is a church on every corner, and I think Macon is a faith-based city,” he said. “Gospel music is the genre that coincides with having faith, so I think that’s why it’s highly promoted in our area.”

Jeffery E. Holmes, founder and CEO of the awards, said the group was listed as the only gospel nominee from Macon-Bibb. However, the numbers could be misleading because many musicians relocate across the country and may have registered in their new home or nearby Georgia counties, he added.

Thomas said he is just looking forward to celebrating and supporting fellow laborers who share the gospel at the ceremony, especially if they are Macon natives.

“Even if we don’t win, it’s already a win because we were nominated,” he said.

But if the longtime gospel group does win, Thomas said he will thank the one who helped the group form its name and artistry.

“If we were to win, it would be glory to God because it’s nothing that we’ve done,” he said. “It’s so good to even be nominated. It’s just the mercy, grace, and favor from God, and the award would definitely be dedicated back to him,” he said.

Thomas said the group will also dedicate the award to their six late family members, one of whom was a former group member.

The Gospel Choice Music Awards aim to celebrate the heritage of gospel music and pay tribute to some of today’s most influential artists, Holmes said. The ceremony also provides a platform for aspiring independent musicians.

Holmes said attendees and nominees can look forward to an exclusive experience that will feature red carpet interviews, VIP reception and special surprises.

“There will be some new additives to the show design this year,” he said. “There will also be some gift giveaways and special guests, which we won’t say their names.”

Another new feature to the annual event is a “shoe cam” for the artists’ designer shoes, which Holmes described as a big deal among the church community.

How supporters can vote for local Macon group

The final winners for the Gospel Choice Music Awards are chosen by limited popularity voting. Voters may only cast one vote during the finalist round, which will open online and run from April 14 to April 27.

An indie artist showcase event will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 28, at the Sonesta Atlanta Airport North. The annual awards ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, at the Sonesta Atlanta Airport North.

Tickets and more information are available on the Gospel Choice Music Awards website.

This story was originally published April 8, 2024 at 12:50 PM.