Discover the World of Music with The House Of Gospel Music Courtesy of The Belle Report

Bishop Marvin Sapp

Ready to Move Forward in a New Chapter in Life!

DALLAS, TX – 

Bishop Marvin Sapp is set to enter into a new chapter of his life as he announces his engagement to Dr. La’Boris Cole. After more than 10 years of friendship before beginning a courtship, which they both kept private, Sapp and Cole have made their relationship official.

Sapp’s children planned the surprise engagement celebration, which was masqueraded as a birthday party. Once the couple arrived, Sapp got down on one knee – surrounded by his and Cole’s family– and asked Cole to be his wife. He presented her with a stunning diamond engagement ring to commemorate their love and their commitment to one another.

Marvin Sapp has been transparent about his journey as a widower who devoted himself to raising his children after his late wife, MaLinda Prince Sapp, passed away in 2010 after battling colon cancer. Sapp’s children are now adults; each of the two eldest children is married and has one child.

Throughout his journey, especially as his children entered adulthood, Sapp has also been transparent about dating and his desire to eventually marry again.

In 2026, God has given Marvin Sapp the desire of his heart!

A native of Mississippi, Dr. La’Boris Cole is a visionary leader, transformative therapist and creative pioneer whose work bridges ministry, mental health, leadership and the arts. She is the Founder and Executive Director of the internationally recognized Born 2 Danz Worship Arts Conference as well as the Founder and CEO of Cole Associates & Counselors of Texas, a multi-site behavioral health practice. Dr. Cole received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Mississippi College and received her doctoral degree in Clinical Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. Her life’s mission is to help people recognize their value, heal fully and walk unapologetically in their God-given assignment.

Widely known for his massive cross-over hit “Never Would Have Made It,” Marvin Sapp is a pastor, author, radio show host and internationally renowned singer who has enjoyed a decorated three-decade music career that still carries relevance and resonance. He is senior pastor of The Chosen Vessel Church in Fort Worth, Texas. “Never Would Have Made It” remains one of the longest running #1 songs at radio of any genre and was named an Associated Press Song of the Year – also among songs from any genre.

“Never Would Have Made It” remains one of the longest running #1 songs at radio of any genre and was named an Associated Press Song of the Year – also among songs from any genre. The song ” inspired a biopic of Marvin Sapp’s life story, which aired to overwhelming response on TVONE in 2022. Sapp has released 16 albums and is one of the few Gospel artists who have amassed more than 1 billion streams on Pandora. A nod to his continued influence in music, Marvin Sapp was inducted into the Black Music Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2023, along with Dallas Austin, Queen Latifah, Jermaine Dupri, Busta Rhymes, Magic Johnson, Lil Wayne and Mahalia Jackson. Marvin Sapp is not a singer who happens to preach, but a preacher – called by God – who is gifted to sing.

He is dedicated to shepherding God’s people through the Word of God.

Congratulations to them Bishop Sapp and Dr. Laboris Cole who is distinguished as a multifaceted entrepreneur, psychotherapist, dancer, physician, and professor.

CECE WINANS WINS GRAMMY #18

(Los Angeles, CA) 

CeCe Winans’ 18th Grammy win for Best Gospel Performance/Song “Come Jesus Come” places her third among the most awarded female artists of all time, joining an elite group of women whose influence has reshaped popular music. A milestone that speaks to far more than accolades. From gospel to the global stage, Winans’ legacy represents artistic excellence and a career defined by purpose in an ever-evolving industry. Her catalog has garnered over two billion impressions on YouTube alone. Beyond chart positions and trophies, CeCe’s body of work stands as a source of inspiration and hope, where success is defined not only by sales, but by sustained streaming performance, cross-generational reach, and long-term audience connection.

“This moment isn’t just about an award, says Winans, it’s about creating songs that bring hope and encouragement. Knowing that the music continues to reach hearts across generations reminds me why I do this. I’m thankful to God, Pastor Ceasar, the writers and every listener who streams, sings along, and finds strength through my songs. That is the real blessing.

ABOUT CECE WINANS
CeCe Winans, the best-selling and most-awarded female gospel artist is firmly established as one of the most accomplished and celebrated women in modern music history. Her illustrious career is marked by an impressive 18 GRAMMY Award,33Dove Awards, and 19 Stellar Awards. She has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Nashville Music City Walk of Fame. CeCe’s first live recording, Believe For It (Pure Springs Gospel/Fair Trade Services, LLC), exceeded all expectations, amassing over one billion U.S. streams. In 2023 alone, her entire catalog garnered over two billion impressions on YouTube. Her current album, More Than This, features the award-winning single “That’s My King,” already hailed as a Winans classic and “Come Jesus Come” is being touted as the next anthem that’s here to stay. The More Than This Tour returns with its final run beginning Spring 2026. Beyond music, CeCe and her husband, Alvin Love, are the founders of Nashville Life Church in Nashville, TN.

Bishop Paul S. Morton Releases Inspirational New Single

"Go Through"

Featuring Grammy Winner PJ Morton and Jasmine Morton Robinson

ATLANTA, GA – February 2, 2026 – The inspirational and multi-faceted Bishop Paul S. Morton, along with Tehillah Music Group, just released his latest single, "Go Through," featuring the extraordinary talents of his son, Grammy Award winner PJ Morton, and his daughter, Jasmine Morton Robinson. Now available on all streaming platforms, ”Go Through" will soon be the church’s go-to anthem of resilience around the world.

Written by PJ Morton, ”Go Through" reflects Bishop Morton’s profound motivation to help prevail over the struggles and triumphs we all face in life. With a rich traditional gospel sound, the track harmonizes the dynamic vocal prowess of PJ Morton and the angelic tones of his eldest daughter Jasmine Morton Robinson, and of course Bishop Morton, creating a moving musical tapestry that exemplifies family, faith, and the power of perseverance.

Bishop Morton, a beacon in the gospel music world with a career spanning decades, has dedicated his life to imparting spiritual guidance through music and ministry. The addition of his children to this project marks a beautiful and heartwarming collaboration that showcases not only their shared musical heritage but also the unbreakable bond only family can embody.

“Wow, this was one of the greatest experiences in my life,” says Bishop Morton. “The Greater St Stephen Reunion Choir — deja vu. It was a glimpse from the past but a whole new experience I never had before.” He continues, “this project puts the old and the new songs together. I had the amazing opportunity to sing this awesome song with my two oldest children, Jasmine and PJ, who were not even born when I sang my first song with the Greater St Stephen Choir.”  When mentioning the song, he says “The essence of the song says, ‘you’ve got to go through to come out.’ I promise you it will speak into your life. You will make it through and you will come out.”

President of Tehillah Music Group, Jerry Q. Parries adds “I have had the honor of collaborating with Bishop Paul S. Morton for more than 25 years—a truly significant and memorable experience. His legacy continues through PJ and Jasmine, and Tehillah Music Group embodies his vision to create a lasting foundation for future generations. Bishop Morton now has the opportunity to witness the fulfillment of this vision. He has persevered through challenges and emerged victorious; this song serves as a testimony to His Victory. “Go Through”

"Go Through" is now available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

Zacardi Cortez Earns Pandora 1 Million Stream Medallion

For Hit Single "Working On Me"

From IBHAR: THE JOURNEY (Chapter 2) Album

Houston, TX -- His raspy, powerful voice has become a signature sound that has earned him two GRAMMY® nominations, three Stellar Awards, two Dove Award nominations, a BMI Trailblazer Award, and multiple Billboard Chart-topping hit singles.  He is Zacardi Cortez.  His current 2-part IBHAR albums - HE THAT IS CHOSEN (Chapter 1), and THE JOURNEY (Chapter 2) continue to elevate the powerful singer to a dominating presence in Gospel music.  

From Zacardi's IBHAR: HE THAT IS CHOSEN (Chapter 1) album, the single "Work It Out For Me (Live Radio Edit)," written by Travis Malloy, hit #1 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay charts and earned a 2025 Pandora Medallion for 1 Million Streams.  He now adds a 2026 Pandora 1 Million Streams medallion for "Working On Me" from IBHAR: THE JOURNEY (Chapter 2).

"I wrote Working On Me for Kerry Douglas, and he loves it," says Zacardi.  "Kerry says it’s his testimony, but it’s mine as well, and a lot of people are relating to it. People like to throw folks away, but I’m so grateful God doesn’t work that way. He’s working on me, and I trust I’ll only become better and better.”

Zacardi has released a new performance video of "Working On Me".  Watch HERE on Kerry Douglas/Blacksmoke Worldwide YouTube channel. 

IBHAR: THE JOURNEY also features "Spirit Of The Living God" with guest vocals by Darrel Walls (of The Walls Group).  Zarcardi calls on friends Doobie Powell, Cardell Booker, and The Williams Singers to collaborate with him on the soulful track "I Been Waiting."  Both IBHAR albums are released by music mogul Kerry Douglas' Blacksmoke Music Worldwide, who has produced three Top ten albums on Zacardi - THE INTRODUCTION (2012), RELOADED (2014), IMPRINT: LIVE IN MEMPHIS (2022).

Zacardi's IBHAR project name means “he that is chosen.” That title is appropriate for the singer who has the extraordinary anointing to deliver mind-blowing vocal acrobatics and never disappoints with his robust performances.  For the young singer, every note is a prayer, and every lyric is crafted to lift listeners out of dark places into the light and hope of Christ.

Nominees Announced for the "57TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS"

Airing Live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium,

Saturday, February 28th at 8 PM ET/ 8 PT

ON BET AND SIMULCASTING ON CBS

SINNERS LEADS WITH 18 NOMINATIONS IN MOTION PICTURE CATEGORIES;

BEL-AIR LEADS WITH 7 NOMINATIONS IN STREAMING/TELEVISION CATEGORIES

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VOTING IS NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: WWW.NAACPIMAGEAWARDS.NET

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To Apply For “57th NAACP IMAGE AWARDS” 2026 Media Credentials,

Including NAACP Image Awards Fashion Show and NAACP Creative Honors, Click on the Link Below:

HTTPS://BETNAACPIMAGEAWARDS2026.PVITL.COM/REGISTRATION/MEDIA_FORM_MEDIA

LOS ANGELES  – Today, the NAACP announced the full list of “57th NAACP Image Awards” nominees, with Cynthia Erivo, Doechii, Kendrick Lamar, Michael B. Jordan, and Teyana Taylor nominated for Entertainer of the Year.  Select categories will be revealed during the two-hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, February 28, 2026, from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, at 8 PM ET/ 8 PM PT on BET and will simulcast on the CBS Television Network. This year’s theme is “We See You.”

Sinners leads in motion picture categories with 18 nods, followed by Highest 2 Lowest with nine nominations. Bel-Air leads across the television categories with seven nominations, followed by Abbott Elementary, Reasonable Doubt, and Ruth & Boaz with six nominations each, and Forever with five nominations. Netflix also leads with an impressive 47 nominations.

Teyana Taylor leads nominations in multiple categories with a total six nominations – including Entertainer of the Year, her roles in One Battle After Another and Tyler Perry’s Straw, and for her album Escape Room. Cynthia Erivo earned four nominations, including Entertainer of the Year and recognition for her role in Wicked: For Good.

Kendrick Lamar received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nominations, while Cardi B. and Leon Thomas received four nominations each, followed closely by Doechii and Teyana Taylor, both earning three nods. RCA Records received eight nominations, the most across record labels. HarperCollins leads nominations across literary categories with eight nominations, followed by Penguin Random House with six nominations.

This year, NAACP is introducing two new categories: Outstanding Literary Work – Journalism, recognizing excellence in nationally distributed journalism that informs, uplifts, and authentically reflects on experiences, issues, or perspectives significantly affecting the Black community, or U.S. national affairs through a lens of racial equity, social justice, or community impact; and Outstanding Editing in a Motion Picture or Television Series, Movie, or Special, honoring excellence in post-production editing that enhances storytelling, strengthens narrative flow, and amplifies emotional impact.

Nominations were announced today live on CBS Mornings by the “57th NAACP Image Awards” host Deon Cole and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and on YouTube/NAACPPlus by Gail Bean and Marcel Spears. 

“The NAACP Image Awards is our declaration to our community that “We See You,” affirming Black creativity, excellence, and humanity across every space where our stories are told,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “From film, television, and music to literature and beyond, the voices of all of our nominees tell stories that honor our past, celebrate our identity, and remind us that storytelling has the power to move culture forward.”

“The NAACP Image Award nominations underscore what we’ve always known to be true—our people are the heartbeat of culture,” said Louis Carr, President of BET. “Their creativity, excellence, and commitment to telling our stories with authenticity and purpose continue to set the standard. We’re honored to stand alongside the NAACP in celebrating the voices and visionaries who move our culture forward.”

By visiting www.naacpimageawards.net, the public can vote to determine the winners of the “57th NAACP Image Awards'' in select categories. Voting closes on February 7, 2026, at 12:00 midnight (ET.) Winners will be revealed during the “57th NAACP Image Awards'' telecast on Saturday, February 28 live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, on BET. NAACP will also recognize winners in non–televised Image Awards categories at the “57th NAACP Image Awards” Creative Honors Thursday, February 26 and virtually on YouTube/NAACPPlus Monday, February 23-Wednesday, February 25.

COMEDIAN, ACTOR, AND WRITER DEON COLE RETURNS AS HOST

LOS ANGELES 

NAACP and BET announced the “57th NAACP Image Awards” will air live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Saturday, February 28, at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET. Beloved comedian, actor, and writer Deon Cole will return as host.

“BET is honored to continue our longstanding partnership with the NAACP to bring the Image Awards to the world in a way that uplifts and celebrates our stories,” said Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “This show is a powerful reflection of our collective excellence, and we’re thrilled to have Deon Cole return as host of the 57th NAACP Image Awards. His authenticity, sharp wit and deep connection to our community make him the perfect guide for this unforgettable night.”

“As a comedian, actor, and cultural icon, Deon Cole has consistently used his talent to entertain, uplift, and inspire. His humor, deep appreciation for the culture, and commitment to our community has cemented him as an entertainment legend,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “It is truly an honor to have him return as the host of this year’s 57th NAACP Image Awards. His presence will guide us through an evening of unforgettable moments as we celebrate the visionaries and trailblazers who continue to define and revolutionize culture.”

Deon Cole is a comedian, writer, and actor, who can be seen in the title role of BET+’s dark comedy series, AVERAGE JOE, from McG, which has garnered incredible reviews from Hollywood Reporter and Entertainment Weekly. Most recently, Deon can be seen in THE MADNESS starring Colman Domingo, a political drama thriller for Netflix from Clement Virgo and VJ Boyd, produced by Chernin. Additionally, he can be seen in Blitz Bazawule's critically acclaimed remake of THE COLOR PURPLE, the film scored 16 nominations at the 55th NAACP Image Awards, winning 11, including Outstanding Motion Picture. Before that, Deon starred in Jeymes Samuel’s THE HARDER THEY FALL for Netflix opposite Idris Elba, Regina King, Zazie Beetz, and LaKeith Stanfield. Deon was featured in Kenya Barris and Jonah Hill’s YOU PEOPLE for Netflix, acting opposite Jonah Hill, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Eddie Murphy.

Deon was previously seen as Charlie on ABC’s BLACK-ISH and Freeform’s GROWNISH. For his work on BLACK-ISH, Deon won three consecutive Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series awards at the 2020, 2021, and 2022 NAACP Image Awards. Deon can be heard as the voice of Dave, for DreamWorks Animation’s Netflix series, KIPO AND THE AGE OF WONDERBEASTS. Previously, he starred as Detective Daniel “DJ” Tanner on the TBS comedy ANGIE TRIBECA opposite Rashida Jones. Additionally, Deon was featured in the Ice Cube-led BARBERSHOP series. Next, Deon can be heard as a voice in the BET+ animated series, LIL KEV, opposite Kevin Hart and Wanda Sykes.

In standup, Deon recently released his third one-hour special for Netflix, OK, MISTER. His previous special, CHARLEEN'S BOY, was released by Netflix in 2022. His earlier special, COLE HEARTED, also for Netflix, was released in 2019 after the success of his appearance in Netflix's THE STANDUPS. His previous one-hour special, DEON COLE’S: COLE BLOODED SEMINAR, was shot for Comedy Central. His stand-up documentary, WORKIN' IT OUT, debuted exclusively on Netflix Is A Joke's YouTube channel, and has garnered 6 million views across all socials.

Globally recognized as one of the most distinguished multicultural award shows, the “57th NAACP Image Awards” continues its tradition of excellence, uplifting values that inspire equality, justice, and progressive change, and highlighting artists committed to these values.

This year, NAACP is introducing two new categories: Outstanding Literary Work – Journalism, recognizing excellence in nationally distributed journalism that informs, uplifts, and authentically reflects on experiences, issues, or perspectives significantly affecting the Black community, or U.S. national affairs through a lens of racial equity, social justice, or community impact; and Outstanding Editing in a Motion Picture or Television Series, Movie, or Special, honoring excellence in post-production editing that enhances storytelling, strengthens narrative flow, and amplifies emotional impact.

One of the most iconic annual celebrations of Black excellence, the NAACP Image Awards draws the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood. Previous years' attendees and winners include Kamala Harris, Dave Chapelle, Keke Palmer, The Wayans Family, Deon Cole, Cynthia Erivo, June Ambrose, Usher, New Edition, Fantasia Barrino, Angela Bassett, Zendaya, Cortney B. Vance, Will Smith, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E. Carter, Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Amanda Gorman, Nia Long, Keith David, Jennifer Hudson, Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown, Dwayne Wade & Gabrielle Union, Tems, Erica Campbell, Chris Brown, Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak, Silk Sonic, Rihanna, Quavo, Takeoff, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Yara Shahidi, Issa Rae, Janelle Monáe, Tracee Ellis Ross, Serena Williams, Kerry Washington, Method Man, Dominique Thorne, Austin Scott, Tyler James Williams, Kyla Pratt, Jabari Banks, and many more.