The Rev. Jerry Yates of Newnan has been nominated as Male Vocalist as well as Acoustic Artist of the Year in the third annual Momentum Awards sponsored by IndieHeaven, the leading organization supporting Independent artists in Christian music. Awards will be presented at the Christian Independent Alliance (CIA) Summit 2008 conference on March 29.

“The music and writing style of IndieHeaven artist Jerry Yates has proven to be unique in the Christian music genre,” says IndieHeaven founder and CIA Summit director Keith Mohr, “and it stems from the fact that he was influenced at a very early age, by seeing Elvis perform on a 1956 Ed Sullivan, TV Show.

“ Most agree that Jerry’s sound is infectiously fun, having a country blues/rockabilly/old-time musical style, while still being undeniably Christian.

“When Jerry is not traveling to someplace to proclaim the Gospel in song, he can be found serving as the pastor of Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church in Newnan, writing, recording, or rehearsing in his home studio, or enjoying his role as the husband of his wife, Karen, at their home in Newnan.”

Mohr continued, “It’s important to recognize and applaud the efforts made in recent years by artists who are independent. By providing them the recognition they have earned, we hope to increase their platform and awareness.

“There are many independent artists who are doing an incredible job with their music and most importantly their mission. Visitwww.ciasummit.com for more information about the Christian Independent Alliance Summit.

To register a vote for Jerry Yates as the “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “Acoustic Artist of the Year” in this year’s Momentum Awards, visit https://www.indieheaven.com/momentum_awards.php