Plot Synopsis

Each year since 2001 -- except in 2015 when the program took a one-year break -- BET has presented CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL, an annual special that commemorates the impact of gospel music, with the help of world-renowned gospel and R&B performers. Taped annually in Los Angeles, BET has aired this program weeks after the actual event -- during Black History Month from 2001-2006, then moving to a January telecast from 2007 through 2011, settling on an April premiere date from 2012-2014, and finally going back to January in 2016 following a one-year hiatus.
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The 15th annual event, taped on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles, CA, was televised by BET and simulcast on Centric on Sunday, January 31 at 8pm ET/PT, with second-time host Taraji P. Henson. This year's event features legendary singers Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight and Pastor Shirley Caesar hitting the stage with contemporary gospel powerhouses Yolanda Adams, Erica Campbell, Tamela Mann, Le'Andria Johnson, Heavenly Joy Jerkins, Jessica Reedy and Tasha Cobbs. Chrisette Michele and Tank showcase their gospel roots along with electrifying performances from Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Bebe Winans, Tye Tribbett, Donald Lawrence, Kurt Carr, Travis Green, Jonathan McReynolds and Geoffrey Golden. Show stopping praise from Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago and an all-star tribute to honor the late, gospel pioneer Andrae Crouch led by Dr. Bobby Jones will cap the evening