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African American Christian
Sep 23, 202631 views2 min read

Kevin Downswell Leads 2026 Sterling Gospel Music Awards With Six Nominations

Jamaican gospel artist and producer Kevin Downswell received six nominations for the 2026 Sterling Gospel Music Awards, including Male Artiste of the Year and Local Hit of the Year. The ceremony will air on Television Jamaica on October 18, 2026, during the Heroes holiday weekend.

Kevin Downswell Leads 2026 Sterling Gospel Music Awards With Six Nominations
Source:Jamaica Observer

Jamaican gospel artist and producer Kevin Downswell leads the 2026 Sterling Gospel Music Awards with six nominations, including Male Artiste of the Year and Local Hit of the Year, according to an announcement reported by the Jamaica Observer on September 23, 2026.

Other top nominees include Johnmark Wiggan and Gilead Collective, each receiving five nominations. The awards recognize gospel music talent across Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Organizers announced a significant format change for this year's ceremony. Rather than a live physical event, the 2026 Sterling Gospel Music Awards will be broadcast nationally on Television Jamaica, known as TVJ, on October 18, 2026, during the Heroes holiday weekend.

The ceremony will also introduce a new "Digital Impact Award" to recognize faith-based content creators who have built significant audiences on social media and streaming platforms. The addition reflects the growing influence of digital ministry and online gospel content in the Caribbean region.

Downswell is one of the most recognized names in Caribbean gospel music. He has released multiple albums and singles that have charted across the region, and his work as a producer has helped shape the sound of contemporary Jamaican gospel.

The Sterling Gospel Music Awards have been a fixture in the Caribbean gospel community for years, providing a platform for artists who might not receive recognition from larger North American award shows.

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