Xist Music recently announced the signing of gospel hip-hop artists Da’ .T.R.U.T.H. and The Ambassador, both of whom were formerly signed to Cross Movement Records.

After a tumultuous year for each of the artists, personally, their album releases will be accompanied by extensive touring throughout the year during which they each plan to share their rich testimonies.

The Ambassador’s album, titled Stop the Funeral, will be released this summer, while new music from Da’ T.R.U.T.H.– his fifth, entitled The Whole Truth– is expected in the fall.

Xist Music will be distributing the music via a new joint venture with 220 Entertainment., the management arm of which has guided the careers of Group 1 Crew, Rachel Lampa, Rhema Soul and more.

The nominees for the 41st annual Dove Awards were announced on Thursday.

Natalie Grant and Bart Millard will host the awards show on April 21st.  Unlike last year, the awards will not be broadcast live– they will air on gmc on Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8pm-10pm EST.

There are 43 categories and you guys don’t know most of the names in ‘em, so I’m not typing it all… sorry.  BUT, you can visit http://www.gmclife.com/41st-dove-award-nominees for the full list.

In the meantime, a quick recap of some of the folks you’ll find there:

Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton, Melinda Watts, Freddy Washington, Brian Courtney Wilson, Mali Music, Vickie Winans, Smokie Norful, Mary Mary, Crystal Aikin, Bishop Paul Morton, Hezekiah Walker, Heather Headley, Mandisa, B. Reith, Fred Hammond, Group 1 Crew, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., BeBe & CeCe Winans… see, there are just too many to name!

Ok, more Dove Awards info and discussion as the time draws nigh.  Until then, tell me what you think about the nominee list!