It has been a year full of “Blessings” for Laura Story who capped off 2012 with a Grammy, 4 Dove Awards and a new baby girl on the way. Story took home the Song of the Year honors for her mega hit “Blessings” as well as awards for Songwriter of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. “This has really been an exciting year for Martin and I. We never in a million years thought all of this would happen but we thank God for it,” said Story.

Up next with the awards was Jason Crabb who led the way with eight nominations. He won the coveted Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year Awards. Crabb came on the Christian music scene as a member of his family group, The Crabb Family where his strong and soulful vocals took center stage and touch the hearts of many. Backstage he took the time to thank his staff and his wife for taking care of the children while he travels in ministry.

Other winners of the night were Natalie Grant for Female Artists of the Year, Jamie Grace for New Artists of the Year, Needtobreath for Group of the Year and one of my favorites, Lecrae who won for Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year, and Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year.

Taped at the Fox Theatre here in Atlanta the show opened up with a wonderful tribute to the late Whitney Houston. Yolanda Adams, Crystal Lewis, Angie Stone and Karen Peck performed several of the Gospel songs that Houston made famous from the Preacher’s Wife soundtrack. “It was an honor to take part in the tribute to Whitney Houston,” said Peck. “I remember first hearing her perform ‘How Will I Know’ back in the 80’s and I fell in love with her. I was like who is that girl on the radio. She was a wonderful singer,” added Peck.

The hosts for the evening David Mann, of Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns and Chonda Pierce, one of the top Christian comedians around, kept the audience in stiches. The show was full of great performances and touching moments. One of which was when Jamie Grace, who has battled Tourette’s all of her life, won the New Artist of the Year Awards. Her speech was very moving. Make sure to check out the Dove Awards when they air on April 24th on GMC check your local listings for times.