Donald Lawrence Wins Black Gospel Honors

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A project expected to be the last from Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers before they part ways dominated the annual awards ceremony for black gospel musicians.

The "Finale: Act One" and "Finale: Act Two" earned the group eight honors at Saturday's Stellar Awards, including artist of the year, which Lawrence won last year alone with the album "I Speak Life."

R&B star Patti LaBelle appeared at the show at the Grand Ole Opry House to perform a selection from her recently released "The Gospel According to Patti LaBelle." She received a standing ovation before singing a note.

Natalie Cole presented gospel favorites The Clark Sisters with the Chevrolet most notable achievement award.

The new artist trophy went to singer Myron Butler and his group Levi, though Butler is an established gospel presence. He worked alongside Kirk Franklin and as part of the popular God's Property choir.

Butler also took the male vocalist of the year award, and Dorinda Clark-Cole won for female vocalist.

Isaiah D. Thomas won song of the year for "I Will Bless The Lord."

Perennial favorite CeCe Winans' "Purified" album earned her a new gospel accolade in a long career full of them, the singer winning honors for contemporary female vocalist.