By Nadine Thomas- Brown, Guardian Lifestyles Reporter, nadine@nasguard.com

Get ready for one of the biggest gospel concerts to hit The Bahamas this year — the Marlin Awards. The musical explosion is expected to be held on Friday, May 30 at Bahamas Faith Ministries, Diplomat Center.

International gospel singer Nigel Lewis is expected to bring the house down and Tempo's Jamie Thomas, who host's the show "Rise and Shine", will moderate.

The concert's lineup will feature local entertainers such as DJ Counsellor, Christian Massive, Alas, Ecclesia and others, some of whom will either announce the nominees or perform.

For the first time, organizers of the award show, which honors gospel artists from throughout the Caribbean in various genres, will announce the nominees during the concert. Nominations will be announced in over 50 categories including Song and Album of the Year.

DJ Counsellor says that people who attend this show, can expect new material from his new album entitled " Oh So Godly". The album features appearances by international singers such as Papa San and local performers such as Monty G and Mr. Links.

"I am looking forward to Bahamians enjoying the way that gospel has gone in this country," he said. The performer also said that he is looking forward to hearing formerly secular guest performer Nigel Lewis as well as Demetrius Stubbs who sings rake and scrape.

Christian Massive will bring the energy as usual according to lead singer Kent Johnson. Johnson says as far as the nominees are concerned right now he has no favorites, and won't be pulling for any particular artist to win. "I enjoy the camaraderie of performers on a whole. These guys from the Caribbean know how to bring it".

Over 100 artists will participate in the Marlin Awards this year representing over 10 countries including countries in Africa, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Dominica, Fiji, Jamaica, London, Tortola BVI, Trinidad and Tobago, St.Croix, St.Maarten and the USA.

The Marlin Awards will be held during Marlin Weekend, Oct. 23-26 under the banner "Gospel in Paradise". The event is expected to attract hundreds of recording artists, songwriters, producers, managers, retailers, radio announcers and music fans worldwide.

Tickets are on sale for $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Children are $5. Tickets can be purchased at 100% Bible Book Store, Bucks Gospel, Christian Bookshop, and Faith Life Book & Music Center.

"This highly anticipated event will be taped for re-broadcast and will feature performances by past Marlin nominees and winners," said concert organizer, Kevin Harris.

MARLIN AWARDS CONCERT

Date: March 30

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Location: BFM, Diplomat Center

Cost: $10 advance, $15 door, children $5.