Performing rights organization BMI will honor Daryl Coley and Richard Smallwood during its 15th annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Luncheon on Jan. 17, 2014, the day before the 29th annual Stellar Awards. The gospel industry’s biggest and brightest stars and industry executives will attend the invitation only event in Nashville.
Stellar, Dove, and GRAMMY nominated artist Daryl Coley, who began his career as a singer for Edwin Hawkins and then as musical director for Tremaine Hawkins, has put together a catalog of gospel hits over the years. Coley recently received a doctorate of sacred music from the Ray of Hope Theological Seminary and Bible College International School of Divinity.
With more than three decades as one of the most popular names in gospel, Richard Smallwood has proven to be a living legend. Also a Stellar, Dove, and GRAMMY nominated artist, Smallwood has topped the gospel charts with such hits as “Total Praise”, “Center of My Joy,” and “I Love the Lord.” His songs have crossed the gospel/mainstream lines and been recorded by the likes of Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Destiny’s Child. Currently, Smallwood is working on his autobiography entitled Total Praise, which is scheduled to be released sometime in 2014.
