The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) hosted a landmark edition of its annual RIAA Honors event at its Washington D.C. headquarters, bringing together artists, executives, policymakers, and cultural leaders to celebrate those shaping and safeguarding the music that defines American life.
This year’s celebration spotlighted multi-Platinum crossover artist Lauren Daigle, Gospel Music Association President Jackie Patillo, Christian Music Trade Association and Daywind Music Group President Ed Leonard, and U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) — the leading voices behind the NO FAKES Act, a bipartisan initiative designed to protect individuals from AI-generated deepfakes and voice cloning.
RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier opened the evening, remarking: “Over the past few years, we have honored pioneers of Country, Hip-Hop and Latin music. Tonight, we come together to celebrate Christian and Gospel – music rooted in praise, community and hope.”
The event, hosted by Billboard’s Executive Editor Melinda Newman, honored both the creative and legislative champions of the music industry. Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Chris Coons were jointly named Policymakers of the Year for their leadership in protecting artist rights in the age of AI.
“These soundtracks of our lives are so worth protecting,” said Senator Blackburn. “We’ve got your back, and we’ve got you covered.” Senator Coons added,
“We’ve worked hard on the NO FAKES Act, and I’m confident we will get it through Congress to protect your voice, your face, your likeness and your music.” Jackie Patillo, honored as Executive of the Year, was praised by Gospel luminaries Natalie Grant, For King & Country, and Jekalyn Carr, who sent heartfelt video tributes. Accepting her award, Patillo said:
“I’m honored to represent the Gospel Music Association and the incredible artists and songwriters we serve. Advocacy for our community’s creativity is both a privilege and a calling.” Fellow honoree Ed Leonard, also named Executive of the Year, reflected on his family’s legacy in Christian music, crediting his mother for founding Daywind Music Group 44 years ago.
“I lead that organization, but I serve. And I’m grateful to work with people like those in the RIAA who protect what we create,” Leonard said.
The night culminated with a powerful tribute to Lauren Daigle, named Artist of the Year, whose career has redefined contemporary Christian music’s reach. Seven-time Grammy, Emmy, and Academy Award winner Jon Batiste surprised Daigle with a stirring rendition of “This Little Light of Mine,” calling her “a beacon of light in these times.”
Daigle responded with heartfelt performances of “Let It Be A Hallelujah” and her 6x Platinum hit “You Say.”
“Music is this incredible tool that brings people together — even in a time of division,” said Daigle. “Hopefully, these songs will last beyond me and continue to bring the beauty of Jesus to every heart.”
Closing the night, Daigle and Batiste joined forces for an emotional duet of “Be Okay,” leaving the audience uplifted and united.
Mitch Glazier concluded, “What an incredible night. We hope you saw and felt what music can do — and remember how much it’s worth protecting.”