Source: praisedc.com

For all the “Sunday Best” fans out there, I’m sure you’re probably as bummed out as we are to know that the sisters of Mary Mary won’t be returning as judges for the popular singing competition. But don’t cry. Dry your eyes. Taking their places are uber-talented gospel singers CeCe Winans and Yolanda Adams (“Open My Heart” is MY jam!). The ladies will join Donnie McClurkin as judges, and yes, Kirk Franklin will be back to bring the energy as host. According to Eurweb.com, former judge Tina Campbell was a bit Simon Cowell-ish on some contestants last season, so some folks are excited to see what good vibrations these ladies can bring to the judging panel this upcoming season. But let’s keep it real, tough love is what makes these people stars! “Sunday Best” has been a pretty big hit for BET in the ratings and in its appeal, and the few times I’ve seen it, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the performances. If you’re one of those folks who would like to show off your vocal abilities to this stellar lineup of judges, you can audition at the following places this month and next month. Good luck!

Auditions for the new season will be held:

- March 24 in Dallas at The Potters House

- March 31 in Glen Dale, MD at the Reid Temple AME Church

- April 14 in Decatur, GA at The Greater Travelers Rest Baptist

- April 21 in St. Louis at Friendly Temple MBC.

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Broadcast Music, Inc. honored gospel legends Pastor Shirley Caesar and all-male gospel group Commissioned. Shirley Caesar, the gospel artist with 11 Grammys, sat back and relaxed as Beverly Crawford, Kim Burrell and Lucinda Moore sang some of her greatest hits. Ledisi was the last to perform, turning Caesar’s “You’re Next in Line for a Miracle” into a deeply personal tribute filled with scat and vocal runs. She thanked Caesar for encouraging her and paving the way for gospel artists. After Caesar made her way to the stage to accept her statue, the choir director told her she was supposed to sing a song. Caesar said flat out, “No, I’m the one being honored so I don’t have to sing.” But not two seconds later she said, “But I will say this…” and burst into a brief impassioned song.

Brother and sister duo, Bebe and Cece Winans were also awarded for their song “Close to You,” which was the most played gospel song of the past year.

Lastly the Detroit based gospel group, Commissioned, were serenaded by the likes of The Clark Sisters who sang “I’m Going On” and Men of Standard who performed a medley, featuring the group’s song “Running Back to You.” Lastly Marvin Sapp, a former member of Commissioned, and several other men sang “King of Glory.” Before he sang Sapp said being in the group taught him to be a man, a husband and a father. He stopped himself, saying he was about to lose it. Although Commissioned originally consisted of six members, over a dozen men graced the stage to accept their award.