Charley Humbard, founder & CEO of GMC TV, America’s favorite channel for uplifting family entertainment, was honored Sunday, Sept. 16 as a “Gospel Music Heritage Living Legend” by the Gospel Music Heritage Month Foundation.
Humbard was feted at the organization’s “Evolution of Gospel” event at the Warner Theatre in Washington, DC, celebrating Gospel Music Heritage Month (September). Humbard was instrumental in getting the special month recognized by Congress in 2008, working closely with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (Texas); Senator Blanche Lincoln (Arkansas); Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (California) and gospel music advocate Carl Davis. GMC continues to include gospel music in its programming with GMC World Premiere Music Specials such as The Stellar Awards, “The Song That Changed My Life” and with its GMC World Premiere Stage Plays.
“No other music like gospel music provides a message of hope which is something we need in these difficult times. It is an American art form that all of us can relate to and be inspired by. I am honored to receive this recognition from the Gospel Music Heritage Foundation,” said Humbard.
Congresswoman Lee gave a moving tribute to Humbard for his contribution to the preservation of gospel music.
Also honored at the event were Central City Productions’ CEO Don Jackson and musician/composer Shirley M.K. Berkeley for their efforts to celebrate and preserve gospel music.
The rousing evening of entertainment featured artists, including Yolanda Adams, Crystal Aikin, Maurette Brown-Clark, Damita Haddon, Lil’ Mo and Phillip Bryant, the 7 Sons of Soul and Washington Performing Arts Society Men and Women of the Gospel Choir.
The event was produced by Ernest Walker of Walker Entertainment Group. Carl Davis served as chairman of the event, along with co chair James “Jazzy” Jordan, EVP and General Manager of Verity Music Gospel Group.
