THINGS TO KNOW

The 37th Annual Stellar Awards wrapped up this past weekend in Atlanta, and with it came the announcement of some big winners across the landscape of gospel music. Pastor Mike Jr. won 2022 Artist of the Year. “Jireh” feat. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine won Song of the Year. And Pastor Mike Jr. won Album of the Year with I Got It: Single’s Ministry, Vol. 1.

Additionally, Syntax Creative’s own Martha Munizzi won the 2022 Stellar in the Traditional Female of the Year award category on the heels of releasing her latest live album, Best Days (Live) [Epic Music], in August 2021.

But what often goes completely unnoticed at these big events are the small, behind-the-scenes, “little” moments. Fans and aspiring artists alike have the chance to rub elbows and to meet, and talk with their musical heroes and spiritual influencers. One such instance happened this past weekend with Central South Distribution artist Paul Bill Jr., as he had the opportunity to meet his hero, gospel music legend Deitrick Haddon.

We weren’t there for the conversation—frankly, that’s between the two of them—but an instant connection was made, a “God-moment” occurred, and both men left the experience feeling blessed. Bill Jr., visibly-so, as he admits crying, “…tears of joy…”

In turn, Haddon was so impressed with the new artist, he was compelled to go to social media regarding the interaction: “I met a lot of people while I was in Atlanta but it was my encounter with [Paul Bill Jr.] that reminded me of why God called me to be different. I won’t back down because there are others with the same gift that need to know that God has sent them also! I need everyone that can and will go get to know this guy. He’s gonna change the world with what God has on his life. Thank you Paul for telling me your testimony. God knew I needed to hear it!”

Paul’s social media reaction on Instagram:

Bill Jr. released his debut Global Music Enterprises, LLC / Central South Distribution single, “Forever,” on June. 24, 2022 (STREAM/BUY). The song entered the Radio Play Experts Gospel Chart for the first time this week (see image below).