Fresh off receiving the prestigious BMI Trailblazer Award at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards in July and his 2026 Stellar Award nomination for Traditional Artist Of The Year, Emmy Award-winning Gospel artist Earnest Pugh is preparing to release his highly anticipated new single, “Gotta Have,” arriving on all digital music outlets September 11.
Recognized for his profound contributions as an inspirational and transformative songwriter, Earnest received the BMI Trailblazer honor following the tremendous success of his fifth No. 1 Billboard single, “Don’t Give Up.” He previously received a BMI Award in 2013 for his hit single “I Need Your Glory,” co-written with James Fortune. Their song remained at #1 on Billboard for thirteen weeks. These milestones add to an extraordinary career spanning more than two decades, including a 2025 Stellar Award win and multiple Dove Award nominations.
With “Gotta Have,” Earnest introduces listeners to a different side of his artistry. Rather than relying solely on the powerful worship ballads and dramatic key changes synonymous with his signature sound, the new single embraces participation, encouraging audiences to become an active part of the worship experience.
“This single is a bit different for me,” Earnest explains. “I’m known for big worship ballads or a song that changes keys seven or eight times. But this song was kind of something that was started by the people.”
For Earnest, “Gotta Have” reflects his desire to create an environment where the audience moves from simply listening to actively participating.
“And what I’ve learned is that you have just to put out the message that you think God is telling you to put out and stimulate what’s called corporate worship,” he continues. “Let your audience sing along with you and incorporate their participation more so than just having them spectate. Because I found out that when people do their part, they fill a part of the moment.”
That spirit of collective worship, mixed with an urban-inspired production flair, is the heart of “Gotta Have,” as Earnest continues to use his voice, songwriting, and ministry to deliver music designed not only to be heard, but experienced.
The single is available now for pre-order and pre-save, released by Blacksmoke Music Worldwide. You can experience “Gotta Have” HERE.
