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EPM Music Group, the new recording company founded by Stellar Award nominated singer Earnest Pugh (best known for the #1 gospel hits “Rain on Us” and “I Need Your Glory”), has announced its first artist signees. The company has inked a deal with Chrystal Rucker, a powerhouse singer who has built a strong following in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination. Her CD is scheduled for a June 26, 2012 release with the rousing ballad, “You Deserve,” hitting radio in April.

Read: Meet Flame The # 1 Artist on Gospel Billboard Chart!

“I have been watching Chrystal Rucker’s Ministry evolve over the years and have said to her on numerous occasions; when the day comes that I have my own label she would have a spot,” says Pugh. “The day has come and Chrystal has her spot. It’s not only her time but it’s her turn. I am not only a friend, but a fan of Minister Rucker.”

EPM General Manager Scott Cameron adds, “One of the biggest joys of working in music is bringing a deserving artist to new heights. I can honestly say that there is a bubbling excitement about EPM’s first artist release, Crystal Rucker. We are mounting a strong marketing and retail campaign to take advantage of that excitement.”

The label has also signed James Roberson. He is a UCLA music professor who released his debut CD “Everybody Dance” in 2009 and watched it debut at #2 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums sales chart off of the strength of the title song. He’s also worked behind the scenes, building the careers of traditional gospel artists such as Beverly Crawford and Norman Hutchins. His project releases July 13, 20122.

The final new signing is EPM President, Keith Williams, who is a classically trained pianist and vocalist. He’s spent the last two decades as a worship leader at prestigious churches such as Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta where Martin Luther King Jr. once served as pastor. Williams’ style is a cross between the legendary Douglas Miller’s nearly operatic baritone and John Stoddard’s polished notes.

Over the years, Williams has written songs for Jennifer Holliday, Dottie Peoples, Vanessa Armstrong and Earnest Pugh.  His debut CD …& Again I Say Rejoice appeared in 2008 and his sophomore set is scheduled for release on August 14, 2012.

Earnest Pugh’s Record Company Announces New Signing!  was originally published on elev8.com