The Gospel Music Association has renewed its partnership with GMC to broadcast the Dove Awards.

The GMA is also taking a bold step and hosting the 42nd Annual Dove Awards in Atlanta, GA., the first time the show has taken place outside of Nashville.

The 2011 Dove Awards will be held in Atlanta's historic and fabulous Fox Theatre on April 20, 2011, GMA is working in conjunction with the city of Atlanta to host the broadcast, where its television partner, GMC is also headquartered.  Atlanta is the home of many of the industry's biggest names (Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin, Third Day, Byron Cage, Bishop Paul Morton, Canton Jones, Dottie Peoples, Brian Free and Assurance and more).

"Georgia's music scene is vibrant, growing and full of history," said Kevin Langston, Deputy Commissioner for Tourism for the Georgia Department of Economic Development. "We are looking forward to playing host to the 2011 Dove Awards."

Located on Peachtree Street in the middle of the city surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants, hotels and more, Dove Award activities will take place in close proximity to the Fox Theatre, creating an intimate atmosphere for attendees, artists and industry VIPs.

"We Atlantans are so happy to welcome the Dove Awards to Atlanta this year," remarked 16-time Dove Award winner and platinum selling artist Chris Tomlin. "How exciting to celebrate and share a night together honoring God in a city I have come to know and love."

In agreement with Tomlin, Bishop Paul S. Morton commented, "To the world, Atlanta is already known to be a home for diversity in music.  I am so excited that the GMA has chosen to bring the Dove Awards to our historic and beautiful city.  What better way to add to the broadening musical landscape of Gospel Music."