Today, in partnership with the Nashville Metro Council, the Nashville Metropolitan Historical Commission celebrated the installation of a historic marker at 1000 16th Avenue South with an unveiling ceremony to honor centuries of the musical effect of Belmont Church, Koinonia Coffeehouse and the genre of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) on Nashville City. In addition, there will be a reunion concert at the Koinonia Coffeehouse on July 27 featuring CCM artists performing at Koinonia during the 1970s.

“Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music have played a big, but sometimes unsung, role in Nashville’s creative evolution and in our being known worldwide as Music City,” said Nashville Mayor David Briley. He continues, “It’s fitting that we honor the impact these musicians, singers, songwriters, producers, engineers and others have had on listeners around the world.”

“The Gospel Music Association is thankful for our colleagues at Curb/Word Entertainment, Capitol Christian Music Group, and Provident Music Group for their financial support for the historical marker and dedication to serving our community in this way,” commented GMA President & Executive Director, Jackie Patillo. “We are also honored to receive the resolution from the Metro Council, on behalf of the CCM and Gospel industry based here, which honors the 50th year of the Dove Awards and we want to urge the community to consider attending the awards on October 15th at Lipscomb’s Allen Arena.”

The Koinonia Celebration Concert will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 27. Featuring famous performers and songs including Dogwood, Fireworks and more at the Koinonia Coffeehouse (1000 16th South Avenue). The concert is accessible to the public up to capacity on a first come basis.