This will be the first time the Doves have been held anywhere but Nashville. A statement from the Gospel Music Association announcing the move called it a bold step.
GMA board chairman Ed Leonard said the move was an opportunity to expand the reach of the awards, which have been held at the Grand Ole Opry House recently.
The 2011 awards will be held April 20 at the Fox Theatre in Midtown Atlanta. The statement makes no mention of where the awards will be held in subsequent years.