with Mr. Kerry Douglas

The podcast dedicated to empower and inspire you to pursue your passions and achieve greatness.

About The Show

Discover the secrets to success with Up Close and In Focus, a weekly podcast hosted by Kerry Douglas, a Billboard #1 Gospel CEO, Grammy Award-nominated producer of the 3-year #1 Gospel music label, and acclaimed music and film producer. Each episode features candid conversations with trailblazers from the music, film, and animation industries, revealing the stories and strategies behind their triumphs. Through these inspiring interviews, Kerry uncovers the mindset shifts and life-changing decisions that propelled his guests to follow their dreams and achieve greatness. Empower yourself to transform your own mindset and pursue your passions, no matter where they lead you, drawing valuable lessons from the journey of these industry icons.

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About The Host

Kerry Douglas, founder and CEO of Black Smoke Music Worldwide, has made significant contributions to the contemporary gospel music industry. As a Billboard #1 Gospel CEO, Grammy Award-nominated producer, and acclaimed music and film producer, Douglas has helped shape the careers of numerous gospel artists, including James Fortune, Earnest Pugh, and Pastor Mike Jr.

Throughout his career, Douglas has demonstrated a talent for identifying and developing promising artists. In 1998, he achieved success with Rev E. Stewart's "I Believe," and in 2008, James Fortune and FIYA's "I Trust You" became Black Smoke's first gospel chart-topper. Douglas's influence extends beyond his own label, as he has also played a role in the success of artists such as Bebe Winans, whose 2017 single "He Promised Me" reached number one on the airplay charts.

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Recent Videos

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

By Kerry Douglas — April 11, 2025

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...

The Family Returns: 30 Years of Gospel Legacy

By Kerry Douglas — March 21, 2025

While their soul-soothing harmonies filled radio waves across America for three decades, The Family mysteriously stepped away from gospel's center sta...

Breaking Through: Journey of Music, Miracles, and Motherhood with Jokia

By Kerry Douglas — January 20, 2025

Step into an emotional episode of Up Close and In Focus as host Kerry Douglas sits down with Billboard-charting artist Jokia. She talks about her tran...

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