Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin, Mandisa, Take 6, The Crabb Family, MercyMe and Chris Tomlin are among the first performers announced for the 38th Annual GMA Dove Awards, today announced John W. Styll, president and CEO of the Gospel Music Association and executive producer of the Doves.

Already experiencing a momentous 2007, including sweeping this year's CCM Magazine's "Readers' Choice Awards," garnering a Dove Award nod and performing at the 15th Annual MovieGuide Faith & Values Awards, award-winning artist Brian Littrell continues his non-stop pace in Japan, where he performed four sold-out shows last week; one with a surprise visit from his cousin, former Backstreet Boy, Kevin Richardson.

Nominations were announced Tuesday for the 38th Gospel Music Association Dove Awards with pop/gospel superstar Brian Littrell receiving continued recognition for his solo debut gospel project, Welcome Home. Chosen to be one of the presenters during the day's press conference, Littrell also celebrated his 32nd birthday from the podium with a stirring four-part harmony birthday wish sung by all in attendance.

Keisha Castle-Hughes stars as "Mary" in New Line Cinema's upcoming release of Catherine Hardwicke's The Nativity Story. From humble beginnings, great things can come. The Nativity Story tells the extraordinary tale of two common people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, an arduous journey, and the history-defining birth of Jesus.

The 2005 chart topper by Tim McGraw, "Live Like You Were Dying," won Song of the Year, and Craig Morgan won the Mainstream Country Artist award at the 11th Annual Inspirational Country Music Awards Show. A star-studded list of performers hit the stage of Nashville's famous Ryman Auditorium, including Wynonna and Natalie Grant, who sang a soulful duet called "Bring It All Together."