EARNEST PUGH HITS #1 ON GOSPEL RADIO CHARTS WITH “DON’T GIVE UP”

New Single Tops Billboard and MediaBase Charts Following Viral “American Idol” Moment

Celebrated Gospel vocalist and five-octave powerhouse Earnest Pugh has once again secured his place at the top. His latest single, “Don’t Give Up,” has officially claimed the #1 spot on both the Billboard Gospel Airplay and MediaBase Gospel charts this week.

Written as an anthem of encouragement for those navigating the challenges of modern life, “Don’t Give Up” urges listeners to cling to the promises of God. “The single challenges listeners to hold on to every promise God made to them,” says Pugh.

Since his breakthrough in 2008 with the hit “Rain On Us,” Pugh has released 17 radio singles, with “Don’t Give Up” marking his fifth #1. The momentum behind this release follows a viral moment on American Idol, where contestant Canaan James Hill delivered a stirring rendition of Pugh’s version of “I Need Your Glory” (written by James Fortune). The performance reached millions, triggering a surge in streams and downloads of Pugh’s catalog—ultimately propelling “I Need Your Glory” to #1 within hours of the episode airing.

“Don’t Give Up” was inspired by a role Pugh plays in the upcoming motion picture Love Mountain, where he stars as Elliot, a devoted father guiding his four children through life’s ups and downs. The character’s message—giving up is never an option—became the heartbeat of the song. After viewing Pugh’s compelling performance, Blacksmoke Films CEO Kerry Douglas encouraged him to write a song that captured the essence of the character. The result became the lead single for the film’s official soundtrack.

Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Blacksmoke Music Worldwide artist. On May 30, Pugh is set to release his upcoming EP, We Wanna See You, Vol. 1, featuring the powerful single “Your Glory – 2 C U,” available now on all digital platforms. The six-track EP—recorded live in San Antonio—is the first of two sessions produced by E. Devon Goodwin and Keith Williams.

Fans can also look forward to Pugh’s appearances on two additional projects this year: “Right There” by LaSha’ Knox and “Expectancy” by The Family. Additionally, Pugh is finalizing his upcoming documentary series, “A Song in the Night,” where he serves as Executive Producer alongside Producer RickyB.

Stay tuned—this is just the beginning of another remarkable chapter for Earnest Pugh.