An indication that gospel music was fast approaching professionalism was a bona fide scandal over GMA's 1971 Dove Awards.
Though no specific bylaw of the organization had been broken, the tactic created an industrywide concern over "voting irregularities and ethical ballot influence and solicitation."
The GMA Board voted to nullify the entire process, thereby invalidating all the awards that had been presented at the October 8, 1971, banquet held in Nashville.
Also, a committee was formed to adjust the voting process with "safeguards to prevent any future irregularities in Dove Awards balloting."
James Blackwood issued a statement in support of the organization's decision and strongly urged all other participants in the Dove Awards to subscribe and adhere to the code of ethics to be set forth by the Gospel Music Association.