Legendary contemporary Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman was honored as a BMI Icon at this year's Broadcast Music, Inc. Christian Awards.
The five-time Grammy Award winner was presented with the BMI Icon Award at the popular annual event, held in BMI's office in Music Row, Nashville, on June 14. Chapman was the first ever Christian BMI Icon Award Honoree in recognition of his top-performing career.
According to a press release obtained by Christian Headlines, after the event, Chapman said he was "completely blown away" by the kindness, love and honor shown to him by receiving the accolade.
He said, "As a guy who loves to use words to try to paint a picture of what's deep in my heart, I'm at a loss for words deep and beautiful enough to express what I feel after being honored by friends, family, and the wonderful folks at BMI and receiving the BMI Icon award last night."
He continued, "What an epic evening to once again 'taste and SEE how good the Lord is' and to remember and celebrate all of the amazing people who have been part of my incredible, ongoing Great Adventure!"
Country trio CAIN and Hillary Scott, co-lead singer of Lady A, all paid tribute to Chapman's immense contribution to Christian music during the ceremony. CAIN excited the crowd with two great hits: "I Will Be Here" and "Great Adventure." Scott's harmonious voice brought a rich undertone to "Speechless" and "Who You Say We Are."
CEO and BMI President Mike O'Neill hosted the awards ceremony alongside Leslie Roberts, AVP, Creative, Nashville. The event also celebrated the songwriters and publishers behind the top 25 Christian songs last year.
Chapman's recognition means he joins an elite list of songwriters, including Dolly Parton, Sting, and Brian Wilson. The music artist is officially the most awarded artist in the history of Christian music. So far, he has received five Grammys, an American Music Award and 59 GMA Dove Awards.
The singer has also had 49 number one radio singles and an impressive 10 RIAA-certified Platinum or Gold albums in his illustrious career. Further, he has sold more than 11 million albums.
The legendary singer has collaborated with other well-known music artists in the Christian music world, and some artists – such as Amy Grant, Casting Crowns and CeCe Winans – have even recorded covers of his songs. Collaborations have included Ricky Skaggs, Billy Dean and Lauren Alaina. His autobiography, Between Heaven and the Real World: My Story, was published in 2017.
Provident Label Group recently announced a new deal with Chapman. His latest musical release is his song "Still." More music will be released this year, with a new radio single planned for next month.
"I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I'd have the opportunity 35 years later to once again pour out what's in my heart onto 'the page' and into a recording like this newest project," Chapman said in a statement.
"These unprecedented times we have all been journeying through have stirred me deeply, and these songs and this record have come from that deep place. These songs are as honest as any I've ever written."
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Photo courtesy: ©Getty Images/Jason Kempin/Staff
Christopher Eyte lives with his wife Céline and three children in Swansea, Wales, UK. He has worked as a journalist for many years and writes his own blog (hislovefrees.life) encouraging others in their walk with Jesus. He became a Christian in February 2002, after a friend explained God's amazing grace!
