How Sweet The Sound™ (HSTS), America's #1 Gospel Music Competition, returns to the nation's capital on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 7:30 PM at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St SW, Washington, D.C. — bringing together the most gifted voices, choirs, dancers, and spoken-word artists from the community for a landmark evening of inspiration, culture, and dynamic performances.
This year's competition draws submissions from across the nation, reflecting the extraordinary depth of talent rooted in underserved communities. Competing categories include Community Choirs, HBCU Choirs, Soloists, Dance, and Spoken Word — a full-spectrum celebration of creativity, heritage, and cultural expression. With a distinctive and intentional spotlight on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), HSTS continues to champion the institutions that have long anchored Black excellence and cultural legacy in America.
Taking the stage as judges and performers are multiple Grammy and Stellar Award winners: Donald Lawrence, Tamela and David Mann, Kierra Sheard Kelly, Jekalyn Carr, and J.J. Hairston — an all-star assembly of the industry's most influential voices that alone makes May 30th a must-attend event.
"A night like this isn't just entertainment," said Nate Brown, Founder and CEO of How Sweet The Sound™. "It honors our heritage, uplifts emerging artists, and shines a spotlight on the excellence of HBCUs. When gospel music fills a room, something shifts — and we intend to shift the entire city of Washington."
You can get more information and purchase tickets now at howsweetthesound.com.
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