Yvonne Orji is a Nigerian-American actress, comedienne and writer who is best known as one of the stars of HBO’s critically acclaimed comedy series Insecure. She made her feature film debut in September of 2018 as apart of the film Universal’s Night School alongside Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish. She is also the co-host of the podcast Jesus & Jollof alongside Luvvie Ajayi.
Most recently, she landed a book deal for her new book which is a faith-based advice book titled “Bamboozled by Jesus”. In this book, she uses a modern-day Biblical blueprint to candidly and humorously share the twists and turns that led her to success—and to inspire and empower readers to live their best lives. Yvonne Orji has never shied away from being unapologetically herself, and that includes being outspoken about her faith.
Because of that, she is often questioned about how she navigates her career when playing roles that are sometimes polar opposite to who she is and what she believes. Yvonne doesn’t hold back with her responses to those questions. In an interview with NBC, we see her speaking up quickly but each time unashamedly holding on to her faith while explaining how she believes her faith has directed her in this pathway and how she’s currently making it work.
A distinguished stand-up comedian, Yvonne has opened for Chris Rock on various stops on his Total Blackout Tour. Yvonne is also known for her inspiring TED Talk, in which she discusses factors that make for a healthy relationship.
Tamara Young-McCoy is the founder of ArtSoul Konnect Entertainment Media, home to ArtSoulRadio.com, and a Radio Host/Journalist whose work has appeared in Ebony, Jet, Blavity, and other publications. With a background in TV, film, and digital media, she is dedicated to bridging faith, culture, and entertainment through storytelling and media innovation. She is passionate about mentoring young creatives, amplifying diverse voices, and advancing the Christian music industry while expanding its mainstream reach. Follow her on social media or learn more at www.tamarayoungmccoy.com.
(June 12, 2025) – Central City Productions proudly announces the nominees for the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards presented by Procter and Gamble, across 36 categories, honoring the year’s best and brightest in gospel music. The awards ceremony will be taped live from the prestigious Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, TN, on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Returning for another unforgettable evening of inspiration and celebration, the 2025 show will feature electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and special honors recognizing gospel legends and rising stars alike. Tickets are available now by visiting StellarAwards.com.
Don Jackson, Founder of the Stellar Awards and Chairman of Central City Productions, Inc. commented, “For 40 remarkable years, the Stellar Awards have been a beacon of excellence, celebrating the voices, vision, and victories of gospel music. We honor not just the genre of gospel music, but the legacy of our history, our faith, our culture, and our community that has inspired Black & African American generations for four decades with our Stellar Gospel Music Awards.”
Public fan voting will take place in two categories this year, Urban Single or Performance of the Year and Praise and Worship Song of the Year. Fan Favorite Voting powered by Tide runs from June 16, 2025 until July 18, 2025 and those votes will determine the winners of those categories.
Nineteen-time Stellar Award winner Pastor Mike Jr. and Stellar Award winner, Jason Nelson lead the field of nominees this year with nine nominations each; both landing top nominations in the key categories Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Male Artist of the Year and Album of the Year (Nelson’s You Belong: Live in Durham; and Mike Jr.’s I Got Away EP).
With eight nominations, Cece Winans is recognized in the top categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year for More Than This. Winans’ More Than This also features the single, “That’s My King.”
Other artists earning multiple Stellar nominations include: Mississippi Mass Choir, Adia, Deitrick Haddon, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Karen Clark-Sheard, Kenny Lewis & One Voice, Micah Lee, Tamela Mann, Chandler Moore and FK&M (Fred Hammond, Keith Staten, and Marcus Cole).
The Stellar Awards also announced nominees for the Gospel Radio of the Year Awards in six categories, including top categories Gospel Announcer of the Year, Syndicated Gospel Radio Show of the Year, Internet Station of the Year, and Top Market of the Year.
Adding to the excitement, August 14th – August 16th, this year’s Stellar Awards is part of the STELLAR PLUS week, a fun-filled extravaganza centered around the flagship show, sponsored by Chevy and Aflac. From Master Classes and soundstages, to fashion shows, comedy showcases and more – the Stellar Plus 1 week offers a diverse array of activities for attendees. For more information on Stellar Plus Events visit stellarplusexperience.com.
40th Stellar Awards taping Tickets are available now at stellarawards.com. Additional announcements regarding ancillary events will follow. Some of the biggest names in Gospel will appear as participants in this year’s show – stay tuned for future announcements and follow @thestellars on Instagram and X, or Stellar Gospel Music Awards on Facebook for the latest news and updates about the Greatest Night in Gospel Music.
The 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Producer and Executive in Charge of Production; Michael A. Johnson as Producer and Director, Erin Johnson as Talent Producer, and Daniel Moore as Music Director.
This year’s Stellar Awards is presented by P&G (Procter & Gamble) with additional sponsorship provided by AT&T, AFLAC, State Farm, Walmart, Olay Body, Chevy and Tide.
A full list of the 40th annual nominees can be found on the official Stellar Awards website. For more information, please visit stellarawards.com and join the conversation using the hashtag #TheStellars.
ABOUT THE STELLAR TV NETWORK
Launched in April of 2023 under the management of Central City Productions, Inc., The Stellar Network fills the void for a family-friendly, entertainment, lifestyle network targeting Black audiences. The Stellar Network is the first in uplifting content with positive, inspirational, and entertainment programming. Stellar’s goal is to be the most preferred network to Black audiences in the country.The Stellar Network can be found on Charter Spectrum, Verizon Fios, Vizio & Vizio WatchFree+ (app), and Xumo Play. For more information visit www.stellartv.com
ABOUT CENTRAL CITY PRODUCTIONS
Founded in 1970 by Don Jackson, Chicago-based Central City Productions, Inc. is a national broadcast television producer, programmer, and syndicator of its exclusively owned African-American programming. Celebrating 55 years of broadcasting Black excellence with uplifting and entertaining original television content, CCP’s award-winning television programs include the Black Music Honors (www.blackmusichonors.com), Stellar Tribute to the Holidays, Black College Quiz Show Series (www.blackcollegequiz.com), America’s Black Forum (www.americasblackforum.com), Mentoring Kings (www.mentoringking.com), Mentoring Queens (www.mentoringqueen.com), and Black History Honors among many others. For more information, visit www.ccptv.com.
Adia is making waves once again with her latest release, “Everlasting,” a passionate and powerfully crafted anthem that blends Christian R&B, worship, and soul into a heartfelt expression of faith and resilience.
Known for her unmatched vocal ability and deep lyrical storytelling, Adia’s return is both timely and refreshing. “Everlasting” is a track that reminds listeners of God’s unwavering presence and His eternal love, especially in life’s most uncertain moments.
“This song is a declaration,” Adia shared in a recent Instagram post. “No matter what comes, God is unshaken. His love for us is everlasting.”
A Sound That Moves the Spirit
From the first note, “Everlasting” draws you in with smooth production, warm harmonies, and a lyrical message that speaks directly to the soul. The track is perfect for fans of Christian soul, Gospel, and contemporary worship—offering both musical excellence and spiritual depth.
Whether you’re driving, praying, or just reflecting, this song belongs on every Christian R&B and worship playlist.
Streaming Now on All Platforms
“Everlasting” is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, Tidal, and all major streaming platforms. The single is already being added to top faith-based and inspirational playlists, gaining early support from Christian R&B curators, Gospel radio stations, and influencers across the space.
🎧 Stream Adia’s “Everlasting” Now:
Why This Release Matters
Adia continues to be a standout voice in the growing movement of artists and Christian R&B who are shiftin the landscape of faith-based music. Her sound offers an authentic alternative for listeners who love God but are looking for something beyond traditional Gospel.
With “Everlasting,” she reminds us that faith can sound like soul, feel like worship, and still move like R&B.
Stay Connected
Follow Adia on social media for behind-the-scenes content, upcoming tour announcements, and more powerful music to come:
About Adia Adia is a Christian recording artist known for her smooth vocals, genre-blending sound, and bold lyrical storytelling. With previous hits like “Rags to Riches,” “We All Want Love,” and “Hold On,” she continues to be a defining voice in the Christian R&B and inspirational soul movement.
Lee Vasi Gears Up to Release Bold New Christian R&B Project “Love Me to Life”
Lee Vasi is no stranger to the spotlight. Many first discovered her powerful voice on national platforms like American Idol, but it’s in the world of Christian R&B that she’s truly finding her stride. With soul-stirring vocals, a passion for faith-centered storytelling, and a style that effortlessly fuses modern R&B with gospel roots, Lee Vasi is preparing to make her boldest statement yet.
Her upcoming project, titled “Love Me to Life,” is more than just an album — it’s a declaration of healing, identity, and divine romance.
From American Idol to Christian R&B Trailblazer
Lee Vasi’s journey as a vocalist began long before the cameras rolled on national TV. But her appearance on American Idol gave her early exposure to a wide audience, allowing people to witness her talent, charisma, and undeniable vocal control. After stepping away from the mainstream path, she leaned deeper into her faith and discovered a new artistic direction: Christian R&B, also known as Christian Soul and Rhythm & Praise (R&P).
Over the years, Vasi has quietly built a loyal following. Her singles have resonated with fans of contemporary gospel and modern R&B alike — offering a refreshing voice for those craving music that’s both honest and healing. She has become one of the rising voices in the Christian R&B space, which continues to grow in cultural relevance and fan demand.
Is “Love Me to Life” Her First Full Project?
Yes — while Lee Vasi has released a number of well-received singles and features, “Love Me to Life” will be her first full-length Christian R&B album. This project marks a major turning point in her artistry, giving her space to tell a fuller story and connect with listeners more deeply.
This album promises to offer an intimate look into her personal faith journey, healing process, and evolution as a woman who’s learning what it truly means to be loved — not just romantically, but spiritually. For fans of Christian music, R&B, and soul, this is a long-awaited debut that’s arriving right on time.
What to Expect from the “Love Me to Life” Album
“Love Me to Life” is more than a catchy album title. It’s a statement of purpose. Through each track, Lee Vasi invites listeners to experience a love that restores, revives, and renews — the kind of love that can only come from God.
Expect rich harmonies, emotionally transparent lyrics, and musical influences from ‘90s and early 2000s R&B fused with a Gospel foundation. The album explores topics like:
Spiritual healing and emotional growth
Redefining your worth through God’s love
Letting go of toxic relationships
Choosing joy, peace, and purpose in Christ
Every song feels like a journal entry wrapped in melody — deeply personal, but universally relatable.
Listening Party Details: A Night to Remember
To celebrate the upcoming release, Lee Vasi is hosting a special listening party that promises to be both intimate and inspiring. Fans will get an exclusive first listen to the album, complete with acoustic performances and stories behind the music.
Date: Wednesday, May 28th Time: 7pm EST Location: Knock Music House RSVP / Tickets:Register Here
This event offers more than just a sneak peek — it’s a chance for fans to connect with Lee Vasi in a personal setting, support the growth of Christian R&B, and be a part of a major moment in the genre’s evolution.
Why Lee Vasi and “Love Me to Life” Matter Right Now
In an era where people are craving authenticity, vulnerability, and faith-filled content that doesn’t sacrifice creativity, Lee Vasi is answering the call. Her voice represents a new chapter in Christian music — one where R&B lovers don’t have to choose between style and substance.
With artists like Lee Vasi stepping into the spotlight, the Christian R&B genre is being redefined — and this album is poised to become a cornerstone of that movement.
Whether you’ve been a fan from the start or are just discovering her sound, “Love Me to Life” is a project you won’t want to miss.
How to Stay Connected
Be sure to follow Lee Vasi on social media and streaming platforms for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and the official album release.
Lee Vasi isn’t just releasing a project — she’s delivering a message. “Love Me to Life” is an anthem for anyone on a journey of restoration, reminding us that God’s love doesn’t just comfort — it transforms. Be sure to mark your calendar for the listening party, stream the album, and witness the rise of one of Christian R&B’s most powerful new voices.
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