GMA Dove Award - Definition of Gospel Music

Definition of Gospel Music

In 1998, due to controversy caused by two popular singles by Amy Grant and Sixpence None the Richer, the GMA published a new definition of gospel music. According to the definition, to be considered eligible for the Dove Awards, gospel music must have lyrics that are:

  • Substantially based upon historically orthodox Christian truth contained in or derived from the Holy Bible
  • An expression of worship of God or praise for His works; and /or
  • Testimony of relationship with God through Christ; and/or
  • Obviously prompted and informed by a Christian world view.

Prior to the definition, the only qualified music was that sold in Christian Booksellers Association affiliated stores. The new standards resulted in complaints by some fans and artists after thirteen entries were disqualified as being too secular in the 1999 Dove Awards. The rules were rescinded afterwards, and many groups disqualified by the rulings in 1999 were winners in 2000.

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