Earnest Pugh Interview with Muzique Magazine

Dr. Earnest Pugh is an Emmy Award Winner, Dove & Multiple Stellar Award Nominee, and 3x, #1 Billboard Artist who has released 12 Gospel CDs to date.

A 20-year veteran in the Gospel Music Industry, Earnest is a recipient of the prestigious BMI Award for radio airplay. Earnest counts as a notable accomplishment being featured at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, where he was honored to sing in the presence of President Barack Obama and the First Family.

After a 20-year career in the United States Army, Earnest was inspired to establish a non-profit organization, The Veterans Emergency Relief (VER), where his philanthropically efforts bring him great honor throughout the country and garners him annual recognition from the Mayor of Houston (where he resides) in support of VER’s Annual Food/Toy Drive for veterans.

Earnest’s latest smash hit single, “God Wants to Heal You,” recently hit #1 on Billboard Gospel Radio Chart and continues to impact radio across the country and his latest CD, “The Outpour Experience LIVE,” is available on all digital outlets.

Finally, Dr. Earnest Pugh is a graduate of Howard University School of Divinity where he earned a Master of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry Degree in Christian Counseling. This P-Man Music/EPM Music Group Recording Artist is a Father, a Pastor of Worship, but most importantly, a WORSHIPER!

When did you discover your love for your craft and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in it?

Being a “Church Kid” and a PK (Preacher’s Kid) I was not really given a choice. As early as the age of 8 I remember leading songs in the choir. I ran away from the whole artist/industry responsibilities for something more stable. At 18 I left my home (Memphis TN) to join the US Army. The entire time I was on active duty I was called on to sing at weddings, funerals, and special events. Eventually while in Saudi Arabia after a near-death experience I yielded to what I believed was my purpose on the earth—to encourage, empower, and encourage the world through song.

To what or whom do you accredit your sense of style?

Darryl Coley and Vanessa Bell Armstrong basically shaped my style and approach as a vocalist.

On your current project, how did you come up with the concept?

The “Ring Dem Bells” Holiday Single was inspired by the classic “Carol of The Bells.” My writing team wanted something festive for me to sing at a Christmas Drama Presentation and wrote it especially for me over 10 years ago.

What are some of your greatest challenges, and what is your greatest attribute when it comes to your work ethic?

My greatest challenge as an artist is writing and performing songs that appeal to people outside of the 4 walls of the church. My Christian upbringing has me very comfortable with using a certain language or subject matter when it comes to conveying a message but on the flip side of that one of my greatest attributes is a strong belief that in bad times people need to hear good news—which is the Gospel and it compels me to be more open and receptive to other conversations.

Are you the best at what you do in your opinion?

I can’t say I am the best but I possess a passion for what I do that takes me beyond the call of duty whereas some people who do what I do are only focused on fame and fortune.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout-outs?

Shout out to my amazing daughter (Kira Pugh) for always sharing me with the world and of course to all the loyal fans who have purchased, downloaded, and streamed my music for the last 2 decades.

How can fans find you?

www.earnestpugh.com or any social media handled @earnestpugh

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?

Stay true to who you are knowing that what God has for you is for you and you will never have to compromise your morals, standards, or principles to obtain it.

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