Gospel Recording Artist, Bonita Burney Simmons, Performed Live @ The 2015 Gospel Image Awards

NEW BERN, N.C. - Oct. 24, 2015 - PRLog -- Gospel Recording Artist, Bonita Burney Simmons, was selected to perform live during the "2015 Gospel Image Awards" ceremony that was held in September at The Halton Theatre in Charlotte, NC!

This annual event was created by the Gospel Cafe TV Show to honor those who achieve spiritual excellence through Christian ministry. Bonita shares how humbled she felt being a part of such an awesome event! "It was such an honor being selected to share the stage with so many talented women and men in the gospel industry. When I was asked to participate, I knew it was divine intervention! I had such a great time visiting Charlotte and look forward to the opportunity again next year!"

Event Host, Robert Brock, shares his exclusive behind-the-scenes account of Bonita's journey during her 48 hours of service and visit to Charlotte, NC:

"Day 1- Bonita arrives in Charlotte, NC on Friday 3pm. A few hours later, Bonita came by the Praise-A-Thon event being held by the Praise Cafe TV Show at the Hilton. The Praise-A-Thon starts around 6:15 and who's up first? Bonita! She sings "I Surrender", the title of one of her singles. Needless to say, the crowd was on their feet and some tears were flowing. Dianna Davis, producer of the Gospel Image Awards, was so moved by Bonita's song that she asked if is she was singing the song again the next day at the awards ceremony.

Bonita seized the opportunity to have a little fun. Later, she attends the John P Kee's "Level Next" CD release event at his church only to find out that John was having open mic. Bonita decides to participate and sings, "Sunday Morning Alter Call", a song from one of John P Kee's new album. Well, she went for it and God's glory was surely seen.

Day 2 -The Gospel Image Awards show is today! Bonita is prepping for the show and she receives a call to go by and see a close childhood friend that resides in Charlotte. Just so happens, he works at the Ultimate Barber Shop right behind the Hilton hotel. Bonita goes into the barbershop and embraces her friend, who was truly glad to see her and asked her to sing. Bonita sings "Precious Lord Take My Hand" to an audience full of men and received a round of applause!

It's later that day around 6:30 pm, and showtime for the Gospel Image Awards ceremony. Bonita is the sixth performer. She sings "Deliverance", a song from her "Restored" album and allows God to use her to minister with a soul stirring performance. What an awesome night we all had and all the performers were great!

Day 3- Bonita ministers in song during her performance at Bethel Baptist Church in Kannapolis, NC. Pastor Antonio Johnson, who was at the awards show the previous night, mentioned the song "Deliverance" and how it ministered to him. Bonita is called up to sing and she sings the song from her album, "I Must Tell Jesus" but with a modern twist. God used Bonita to set the atmosphere before the sermon as Pastor Johnson elaborated on the song and the spirit moved in a mighty way!"

For more info about the Gospel Image Awards or a DVD copy of this year's ceremonies, visit http://www.gospelimageawards.com #2015GospelImageAwards

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About Bonita...

At age 12, she started her own gospel singing group, a trio called “Tried by Fire.” Determined and focused, Bonita thrived in her role as band leader and demonstrated her entrepreneurial skills at a very young age. Bonita would open up for all the national recording gospel artists who came to town like Shirley Caesar, John P. Kee, Luther Barnes, The Winans, The Williams Brothers and many others. Bonita has appeared and won first place on numerous occasions at the world famous Apollo Theatre in New York City. By the time she reached high school, she was already considered a professional singer!

Today, Bonita is enjoying the flexibility of being an independent recording artist. Her talent is in high demand, as she is frequently requested to sing at venues and events throughout Eastern North Carolina! Although she's experienced many tribulations, Bonita's life lessons are part of her unique tapestry that enables her to relate to people who are hurting. One of her biggest accomplishments is her outreach work with those who are incarcerated, sharing God's love through song. Indeed, Bonita has defined her own success, choosing to embrace an obedient lifestyle according to God’s will for her life and career. She simply allows God to do the navigation and depends solely on Him to direct her career path. For more info, visit her website @ http://www.bonitaburneysimmons.com