|PIC1|Gospel Music Association's (GMA) Dove Awards, Christian music's biggest night of the year, has recently announced a line-up of performers for the show.

TobyMac, 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, reported John W. Styll, President and CEO of GMA and executive producer of the Doves.

Michael W. Smith, Brenda Lee and Bob & Larry from VeggieTales are among those slated as presenters.

Nominations for the Awards were announced in February by the GMA. Dove awards will be handed out on 25 April, 2007 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.

While newcomers led the field alongside established artists, several producers and songwriters also earned multiple nominations.

2006's Dove Award Artist of the Year Chris Tomlin once again leads the field of artists with nine nominations as Jars of Clay makes a return with six nods. Southern gospel artists The Crabb Family earns five nominations, while newcomers Aaron Shust and Leeland each garnered five nominations.

Other multiple nominees include Casting Crowns, Stellar Kart, and Israel Houghton with four nominations each.