About Us

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In 2004, the late Peppi Hendrix established the South Florida Gospel Music Awards (SFGMA) to honor the dedicated gospel musicians who serve as the unsung heroes of the music industry.

Since its inception, the SFGMA has transformed into a prestigious annual event that draws prominent figures from the gospel community. It has become a must-attend ceremony, inspiring emerging artists to connect with industry veterans who can help elevate their careers. The awards not only celebrate those who have long awaited their moment in the spotlight but also offer invaluable workshops that equip budding musicians with the essential tools to thrive as fully-realized artists.

Tragically, the passing of Peppi Hendrix in 2018 raised concerns about the future of the SFGMA. However, that same year, Lynn Brown, then President of the Broward Alliance of Gospel Music Professionals (now known as the Gospel Industry Network), stepped up to carry on his legacy. Under her leadership, the awards ceremony reached unprecedented heights in 2019, showcasing the resilience and unity of the community.

Although the pandemic temporarily halted the event in 2020 and 2021, Lynn Brown seized this opportunity to reimagine the awards. In a bold move, she rebranded the event as the South Florida Indie Awards, broadening its scope to encompass a diverse array of music genres. By 2023, Lynn recognized that the award show had grown beyond merely celebrating indie artists; Florida has a rich history of individuals who have excelled in music, film, theater, and literature, yet their contributions often went unrecognized. To honor this legacy, she decided to rename the event the Florida Cultural Arts & Music Hall of Fame. This new identity allows for the celebration of artists across the entire state of Florida while capturing their historical contributions, with plans to eventually house this information in a dedicated museum.

Today, the Florida Cultural Arts and Music Hall of Fame stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and collaboration, continuing to uplift and recognize the talents that shape our cultural heritage within the African Diaspora.