Gospel Music Association honours 'Give Thanks' singer Don Moen, Four Others

Don Moen giving his acceptance speech at the GMA gala event

The GMA (The Gospel Music Association) recognised Don Moen along with four other honorees in its inaugural GMA Honours celebration at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena. The gala event was in celebration of individuals and organisations that impact the culture through gospel music both past and present. In conjunction with the honours, the GMA also inducted producer Brown Bannister, the venerable Gaither Vocal Band, Take 6 and posthumously Rich Mullins, writer of “Awesome God,” into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Friend, prolific songwriter and worship leader Lenny LeBlanc presented Moen with his award before the audience watched a short video presentation of Moen’s life. 


In his acceptance speech, Moen gave credit to those who had opened doors for him through the years, including co-founder of Integrity Music Mike Coleman, evangelist Terry Law, and producer and arranger Larry Dalton. Moen also highlighted the power of worship, by saying, “true worship transcends cultures, generations, and denominations, and I’ve been privileged to be part of this movement for many years.” Performances by Amy Grant, Vince Gill, David Crowder, and Michael W. Smith showcased songs made popular by the event’s honorees. The evening concluded with an induction of the Gaither Vocal Band. Crowder paid tribute to the group by performing the Gaither penned standard, “Because He Lives.” Inductee Bill Gaither said, “I love the art of music, but more importantly, I love the message we are able to share.” “What a night! The GMA Foundation is charged with observing our gospel music history and its trailblazers,” said Jackie Patillo, Executive Director of GMA. “We have looked at all of our events with the desire to better serve our music community. Tonight proved that we have established an evening of honor that will be one of the most anticipated of the year.” Don Moen has spent his career in music as an architect of products, live events, and resources that help others experience the presence of God.  A songwriter, producer, worship leader, and former record label president, Moen has sold over 5 million albums worldwide and participated in careers of artists such as Darlene Zschech, Hillsong, Israel Houghton and New Breed, and Paul Baloche.

Moen has led worship on every continent except Antarctica, and travels almost 200,000 miles annually to over 1 million people a year sharing God’s message of hope, comfort and encouragement through music. Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the Gospel through music of all styles including Pop, Rock, Praise & Worship, Urban Gospel, R&B, Hip Hop, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Country and more.