Deitrick Haddon Slams BET’s Selection of Rapper GloRilla for Gospel Award

Gospel music powerhouse and pastor Deitrick Haddon has ignited a fiery debate across the gospel and entertainment communities after publicly criticizing BET's decision to award rapper GloRilla the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at the 2025 BET Awards.

The award, which recognizes excellence in gospel and inspirational music, was given to GloRilla for her hit collaboration "Rain Down on Me," featuring gospel icons Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music. While the song has drawn praise for its genre-blending approach, Haddon says the decision to honor a secular artist in a sacred category sends the wrong message.

"We wonder why gospel music is dying," Haddon stated in a video response posted to social media. "It's because we're doing things like that - giving gospel awards to mainstream rappers instead of honoring those who labor in the genre year-round."

Haddon, who has long championed the integrity of gospel music, also took issue with the repeated awarding of the same artists in the category, suggesting it reflects a lack of industry support for the broader gospel community.

"We're tired of seeing the same people celebrated year after year, like there's nobody else in gospel music. There are hundreds of gifted artists putting in the work, and they deserve their moment."

The remarks have since gone viral, with fans and fellow musicians weighing in across social media. Some have echoed Haddon's concerns, while others defended GloRilla's win as a sign of gospel music's expanding reach.

This marks the first time a female rapper has taken home the gospel award at the BET Awards. GloRilla, best known for her gritty Memphis style, has said she grew up in church and was honored to return to her roots through the collaboration.

Still, Haddon believes the industry must do more to preserve the sanctity and future of gospel music.

"This isn't about GloRilla personally," he clarified. "It's about what we're saying to the next generation of gospel artists - that you're not good enough unless you cross over."

The BET Awards have not issued a statement in response.

 

 

 

Tags : GloRilla Deitrick Haddon Dr. Bobby Jones best gospel/inspirational award 2025 BET Awards