“God doesn’t put limits on where the music can go.” — BeBe Winans
Two of the most iconic voices in faith-based music, BeBe and CeCe Winans, are once again stepping into the spotlight together, this time as co-hosts of the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, airing from Nashville on Aug. 16.
Known for their soulful sound, enduring sibling bond, and deeply rooted faith, the Winans siblings joined Crystal Thornton on the latest episode of the K-LOVE News Podcast to reflect on this milestone moment, their shared musical legacy, and the continued evolution of Gospel and Contemporary Christian music.
Throughout their trailblazing careers, BeBe and CeCe have helped break down barriers between Gospel and Contemporary Christian music, creating pathways for artists in both genres to reach broader audiences while staying rooted in their faith.
Listen Now: (K-LOVE News Podcast – BeBe & CeCe Winans on Legacy, Unity, and Faith Through Music]
BeBe on Breaking Barriers
BeBe reflected on their journey:
"When we first started doing what we do as a duet, there were limitations where our music could go. We saw that God has no limitations if we're faithful to what He's called us to do. He would break down doors and take us places that we can't even imagine. And then, it didn't stop with us. Gospel music continues to go places that people say, 'you can't do that,' and it's a great thing to see. Because when God opened the door for us, it wasn't just for us, it was for those coming through the door as well."
A Night of Celebration
The evening will be particularly exciting for CeCe, who is nominated for eight Stellar Awards this year.
How will they juggle co-hosting with the possibility of multiple wins? BeBe laughed and said his sister needs "gym shoes on," but “with sparkles.”
Celebrating Gospel and Bridging Genres
“It just made sense,” said CeCe about being invited to host this year’s milestone Stellar Awards. “We started 40 years ago… it’s the perfect time to come together and celebrate.”
While Gospel music has long thrived within its own vibrant community, recent years have seen a rise in cross-genre collaborations and recognition. A powerful example? CeCe Winans’ awards sweep this past year:
- 2x GRAMMY Winner at the 67th Annual GRAMMYs (February 2025)
- Best Contemporary Christian Performance/Song for “That’s My King”
- Best Gospel Album for "More Than This"
- K-LOVE Fan Award Winner: Female Artist of the Year (May 2025)
GMA Dove Awards: Artist of the Year (October 2024)
“Keeping Him first—that’s the key,” CeCe shared. “If you want to stay grounded for the journey, you’ve got to prioritize your time with Jesus.”
BeBe Winans: Still Making Waves
Though his recent music wasn’t up for awards this season, BeBe Winans continues to inspire through new projects and personal transformation.
Music:
- Released “Father in Heaven (Right Now)” in April 2024, filmed during sold-out concerts in South Africa
- “Free, Free” charted in Billboard’s Top 15 Gospel Singles
- “Laughter” earned an NAACP Image Award nomination
Entertainment:
- Starred in Bounce TV’s “Mind Your Business”
- Featured in the 2024 Lifetime Christmas movie, "BeBe Winans' We Three Kings"
His autobiographical musical “Born for This” debuted on Broadway in Spring 2025
“Whatever God is stirring—it’s big,” BeBe said with a smile. “We don’t always know what’s next. But we stay ready.”
Spotlighting New Talent
Both artists expressed their excitement about the next generation of Gospel artists.
“There’s a lot of great talent in gospel music. There always has been. And I think it’s just getting better.”
CeCe added with a laugh:
“I don’t know all the categories, but I love artists like DOE, Naomi Raine, Jekalyn Carr, and Jonathan McReynolds. They’re bringing so much heart to the table.”
The Power of Unity & Influence
While many listeners may associate CeCe with Contemporary Christian radio and BeBe with Gospel, their ministry has always defied labels.
“God opened the doors not just for us but for others to come through,” BeBe reflected.
Their hosting gig at the Stellar Awards is more than a celebration of history—it’s a joyful symbol of unity bridging musical communities, generations and cultures.
Advice to the Next Generation
The Winans siblings emphasized keeping faith at the center.
“The only thing we need to do as artists is to say yes to what God has called us to do and say yes to the doors He opens. But when we say yes, we’ve got to make sure we stay close to Him. That’s the only way to stay grounded,” BeBe shared.
“When you keep Him first, then your feet will stay on the ground no matter how high He takes you,” CeCe added.
“That’s His will, to take us higher. Because when people see us, we represent Him. But we have to know that we need Him...Your gift will make room for you. But it’s your relationship with Jesus that will carry you.”
A Moment to Watch
Whether you know them as Gospel greats, pop crossover pioneers, or powerful voices in Contemporary Christian music, BeBe and CeCe Winans continue to shine with grace, purpose and joy.
“We’re just expecting to have a great time,” said BeBe. “If we’re not having a great time—it’s a waste of time.”
Catch the Show
Catch BeBe and CeCe Winans at the 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards on Aug. 16, airing on BET and streaming on-demand.
Looking Ahead
As for what’s next, BeBe is staying open to wherever God leads:
“I don't know. I really don't know. I say that because I didn’t know we were going to do certain other things... What I do know is that God is a big God—so whatever He’s stirring, it’s big.”
Watch the Stellar Awards August 16 on BET and stream on-demand