For the second year in a row, Lipscomb University will be opening up its facilities to the Gospel Music Association as the host of the 2014 Dove Awards.
Just as we did before last year’s ceremony, Lumination will be previewing some of the key categories.
With categories and genres ranging from southern gospel performance of the year to most inspirational film of the year, perhaps the most unique and controversial award of them all continues to be the Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year accolade.
This year, Christian hip hop artist Andy Mineo seems to be sweeping the competition. Two of his songs, as well as one song in which he is featured, have been nominated.
The complete list of the 2014 nominees for this category is as follows:
• “100” by KB (ft. Andy Mineo)
• “Dear Mr. Christian” by Derek Minor (ft. Dee-1 and Lecrae)
• “Head Held High” by Rapture Ruckus
• “Stop The Traffic” by Andy Mineo (ft. Co Campbell)
• “You Can’t Stop Me” by Andy Mineo
While all of these artists and songs were certainly deserving of the nominations they were given, only one will be receiving the award on October 7.
As far as predictions as to which song will come out on top, my radio and gut instinct are both telling me that I should lean towards “Head Held High” by Rapture Ruckus.
Rapture Ruckus’ blend of hardcore rap and poppy hip hop gives them a unique sound that appeals to a wide variety of listeners; from die-hard rap fanatics to a more upbeat, typically younger demographic.
Also, their song “Head Held High” carries with it a message of harsh reality with a silver lining of hope and encouragement. This lyrical theme is perfect for the respective audience and resonates heavily with the hearts of Rapture Ruckus’ listeners.