This week, it was announced through social media that the independent label, Black Smoke Music Worldwide is partnering with Motown Gospel and Capitol CMG’s Re:Think.
Seen in the photo above, (l-r) Thornton, CCMG VP of Creative/Co-Head of Motown Gospel Monica Coates, Pastor Mike Jr., Black Smoke Worldwide CEO Kerry Douglas and CCMG SVP of Marketing/Co-Head of Motown Gospel EJ Gaines., the team is preparing for a release from Pastor Mike Jr, 11-time Stellar Award-winning artist.
The project marks the first formal co-venture of Motown Gospel and Re:Think as the companies pilot the genre’s next chapter.
“Black Smoke Worldwide has ascended to become one of the most influential independent labels in gospel music,” reads a quote from Thornton. “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 explore new business verticals together. I’ve also promised that he’ll never, ever have to take a call from Todd Hensley.”
“I’m elated to be an architect of bringing forth the ‘New Deal’ in gospel music,” said 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.”
“For decades, Kerry Douglas has led the charge on some of the biggest songs in gospel music,” added Coates and Gaines in choir-like unison. “We believe that the 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.”
