BMI to honor Kierra Sheard, top gospel songwriters at 2026 Trailblazers Awards

Gospel Music Fever™

BMI will spotlight some of the most influential voices in gospel music this summer when it hosts its annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards in Nashville.

The private ceremony is scheduled for July 21, at BMI’s Nashville office and will recognize the songwriters, producers, and publishers behind the 25 most-performed gospel songs in the United States over the past year. The organization will also announce its Gospel Song, Songwriter, and Publisher of the Year during the event.

This year’s BMI Impact Award will be presented to acclaimed recording artist and songwriter Kierra Sheard, recognized for her artistic influence and continued role in shaping the direction of contemporary gospel music across generations.

In remarks included in BMI’s announcement, Catherine Brewton, Vice President of Creative, Atlanta, described Sheard as “one of the most influential and dynamic voices in gospel music today,” crediting her ability to inspire audiences while expanding the reach of the genre. Brewton added that the organization looks forward to celebrating both Sheard and other honorees during what BMI describes as an afternoon of fellowship and music.

Sheard, who comes from a prominent gospel lineage as the daughter of Karen Clark Sheard of the Clark Sisters and Bishop J. Drew Sheard, Sr., has built a solo career that blends traditional gospel foundations with contemporary R&B influences. Since her 2004 debut album I Owe You, she has released multiple projects that have performed strongly on Billboard’s gospel charts, including five albums that reached No. 1.

Her 2020 self-titled album KIERRA marked a notable high point in her recent catalog, earning critical attention and further cementing her position within the genre. Across her career, Sheard has also collaborated with a range of gospel artists, extending her influence across both established and emerging audiences.

Her accolades include four Grammy nominations, seven Stellar Awards, three Dove Awards, and four BMI Awards. She was previously named BMI Gospel Songwriter of the Year in 2022.

In addition to honoring Sheard, the upcoming ceremony will continue BMI’s long-standing tradition of recognizing the creators behind the most widely performed gospel compositions in the country. The organization, which represents millions of musical works and creators globally, has positioned the event as a celebration of both creative achievement and industry impact.

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