The word on gospel nominees

Reigning best artist Michael W. Smith and Toby McKeehan of the group dc Talk had a leading nine nominations apiece Tuesday for the Gospel Music Assn.’s Dove Awards.

Smith, named the top artist in Christian music last year and in 1999, was nominated for best artist along with Steven Curtis Chapman, the groups MercyMe and Third Day, and tobyMac (a pseudonym that McKeehan performs under).

Smith also will compete for best male vocalist, inspirational recorded song for “Purified,” praise and worship album for “Worship Again,” short form music video for “There She Stands” and long form music video for “Worship.”

McKeehan’s nominations included his work as artist and writer on two songs nominated for best rap recorded song: “J-Train” and “Irene.” He wrote and sang “Get This Party Started,” nominated for best modern rock song, and also was nominated in video categories.

The awards show is set for April 10 in Nashville.