Contemporary gospel singer Earnest Pugh began his professional career when he was still a teenager, singing with the legendary O’landa Draper. After a stint in the army, he went solo, also finding work as a stage actor. He soon became known for his expressive interpretive skills and five octave range. The Memphis native later began collaborating with popular singer Byron Cage and assumed the position of Director of Praise at Ebenezer AME Church in Fort Washington, Maryland, eventually releasing several award-winning albums and leading high-profile worship services.