Following the most electrifying year of her career, 2014 has begun on a very high note for five-time GRAMMY® nominee Mandisa, as she was awarded the coveted Gramophone for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for her best-selling and critically acclaimed project Overcomer. This makes Mandisa one of only five American Idol Alumni to win a GRAMMY®, and the only alumni to win last night (both Kelly Clarkson and Fantasia were nominated). Additionally, the songwriters for her No. 1 smash single “Overcomer,” David Garcia, Ben Glover & Christopher Stevens, won the GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song. The awards were announced during the pre-show at the 56th Annual GRAMMY® Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
“I know I keep saying it, but whose life is this?!,” said an overwhelmed Mandisa after watching the awards being presented during the GRAMMY® pre-telecast online. “I am utterly shocked and thankful for the honors the academy awarded myself and the songwriters! Childhood memories of singing into my curling iron in the bathroom to my Whitney Houston cassette tapes and flying to the American Idol audition in 2005, came flooding to my mind as my name was announced…and then the tears came flooding down my face!”
“The list of people I am thankful for could go on and on,” she continued, “but that list would have to include Capitol Christian Music Group, my producers, Chris Stevens and David Garcia, and every songwriter who helped me put all that God has been showing me to melody. You helped make Overcomer an album that speaks life, hope, and encouragement to so many, including me. Most importantly, while this affirmation feels unbelievable, I lay this trophy at the feet of my Jesus in humility, honor and gratitude for all He has done in, to, and through me: ‘You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (1 John 4:4 (NIV).’”
The GRAMMY® wins kick off what promises to be a busy year for the singer, including once again touring as a part of six-time GRAMMY® winner TobyMac’s acclaimed spring leg of the “Hits Deep Tour,” on GRAMMY® nominated and platinum-selling band Skillet’s co-headline tour with Third Day, as well as a co-headline tour with Brandon Heath. For all tour information on Mandisa, please visit www.mandisaofficial.com/home/tour/.