Today, successful independent label Black Smoke Music Worldwide announces its distribution and label partnership with Motown Gospel and Capitol CMG’s Re:Think. Led by Founder & CEO Kerry Douglas, Black Smoke Music Worldwide is already making way for the release of new music from 11-time Stellar Award winner Pastor Mike, Jr. with the infectious new radio anthem, “Impossible” feat. James Fortune.
L-R: Phil Thornton, Monica Coates, Pastor Mike Jr., Kerry Douglas and EJ Gaines
Photo credit: Tony Minifield
“I am elated to be an architect in bringing forth the ‘new deal’ in Gospel music,” says Kerry Douglas. “The music industry is ever-changing; it’s no longer business as usual. This alliance with Capitol CMG—the world’s largest Christian music company—and Motown Gospel—a name synonymous with legendary hitmakers—affords us the opportunity to give wings to our vision, propelling it to the next level and beyond.”
In addition to his label group, Douglas is also an in-demand promotions consultant who has also muscled countless hit songs to the top of the Billboard Gospel Airplay charts, including recent Maverick City Music’s “Jireh” and BeBe Winans’ “He Promised Me.”
“Black Smoke Worldwide has ascended to become one of the most influential independent labels in Gospel music,” shares Phil Thornton, SVP, Capitol CMG. “Kerry Douglas has built an inspiring brand the last two decades. We’re excited to partner with Black Smoke Worldwide for Pastor Mike Jr’s forthcoming release and exploring new business verticals together.”
The historic partnership is also the first formal collaboration between the Motown Gospel and RE:Think divisions of Capitol CMG, demonstrating the significant potential that the faith-based market leader sees in its new partner.
EJ Gaines and Monica Coates, Co-Executive Directors of Motown Gospel, share, “For decades, Kerry Douglas has led the charge on some of the biggest songs in gospel music. We believe that the iconic Motown Gospel label and our best-in-class team at Re:Think are perfectly suited to serve the needs of Black Smoke and Pastor Mike, Jr. in this next chapter.”
