The Glory Returns: Earnest Pugh on Music, Mentorship, and Unexpected Comebacks

A single American Idol performance launched Earnest Pugh's 14-year-old hit "I Need Your Glory" to #1 on iTunes overnight! In this episode of Up Close and In Focus, Kerry Douglas reconnects with gospel star Earnest Pugh as they celebrate his hit going viral again after an American Idol contestant performed it on national television last week. The pair reflect on their 25-year relationship in the music industry and discuss the advantages of what Douglas calls "The New Deal" - independent record deals that give artists more control in today's digital landscape. Pugh shares the story of first meeting Douglas and how that chance encounter transformed his career from church worship leader to chart-topping artist. They explore the concept of "artist scores" and how collaborations can bridge generational gaps while announcing Pugh's upcoming EP "We Want to See You." This conversation offers listeners an inside look at music industry relationships, artist development, and the surprising ways songs can find new life years after their release.