Cox praises gospel acts at awards ceremony

Despite the challenges of the covid19 pandemic, Minister of Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox said gospel music gives people peace of mind and the motivation to be productive in their daily lives.

A media release from the ministry on Monday reported that Cox paid tribute to gospel acts during the Fourth Annual Gospel Music Awards of TT (GMATT) on Sunday at Queen's Hall, St Ann's.

In her feature address Cox commended awardees and organisers of the ceremony for doing their part to promote spirituality and artistry in the midst of the pandemic.

She said gospel music as a genre has transformed lives while uniting people from all walks of life behind a common cause to worship.

"Our experiences with covid19 and its associated destruction of humanity reminded us that gospel music provides a way for people to maintain balance in their lives, to maintain peace of mind in the midst of the storms of life.

"Sometimes it is just that song at the right time, that perfect message, making the right impact in our lives that helps us find balance when things appear out off balance.

"Gospel music is indeed very important over the world and it is important to us here in TT.

"It will encourage and uplift us, as we face the challenges of covid19 and the many other social and economic challenges that come our way. It reminds us that we can have joy, hope, and courage no matter what life sends our way."

The theme of this year's GMATT ceremony was "One Nation, One Community and One People" and paid tribute to several artistes, including Denyse Plummer, Positive, Michelle Sylvester and John Thomas.