Some musicians begin their bands and their record labels in a home garage, or basement studio, but Joseph "JSIII" Smith III, driven by his passion for making music, began while a Sophomore at Purdue University and while a Disc Jockey in college and in night clubs around Lafayette, Indiana and Atlanta, Georgia. He continued in the business as an on air personality at Radio Station WRFG-89.3, in Atlanta, Georgia. A native of Miami, Florida, who has lived in Georgia since 1994, he has a long history of involvement with the music business.
JSIII, founded Mindstate Entertainment Records in 1995 and assisted the careers of several independent secular artists. Music is in his head, hand, feet, heart and mind. He is connected to his passion. In music, he finds his joy, his peacefulness, and his mission in life. Secular music was not his calling, being an instrument for the word and developing music for the glory of God is his true life purpose.
Today, JSIII proudly professes the most high, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as his sole inspiration for living. His God giving talent to write/produce and to perform music to minister the word and spirit-filled messages brightly shines, impacting man for the glory of God. Recently married to his wife Sharon, with children Letisha, Nichole, and Ronny he lives for God and his family. He proudly attends Christian Fellowship Church in Warner Robins, Georgia, whose founder and Pastor is Bishop Harvey Bernard Bee. He currently resides in Warner Robins, GA.
For this artist/producer/songwriter, a new independent record label "Prophetic Entertainment Records" was created with Michael "Gifted" Upshaw. This newly formed label will be an outlet for Gospel/Christian messages with a strong emphasis on the business side of the industry, whereas most artists concentrate on performing. "To maintain longevity in the business, artists must have knowledge of all aspects of the business, which will allow artists more creative control, and an outlet to pursue other facets of the industry," states JSIII.
Michael Upshaw aka "Gifted" was born and raised in Detroit, MI. By the time he became a teen aged boy, he'd already faced many challenges and hardships. With God's love, mercy, and strength he was able to overcome more than most people would ever have face. With drugs, violence and death being rampant, Michael joined and served honorably in the United States Marine Corps.
He is a devoted, loving husband to his wife Priscilla and a wonderful, nurturing father to their three children; Imani, Michael Jr. and Isaiah. They currently reside in the metro Atlanta area where they attend World Ministry Christian Church in Hiram, GA under the Pastoral leadership of Pastor Charles and Terri Rachel. God has commissioned and enabled Michael, aka "Gifted" to minister through music. His lyrics are anointed by God and identifiable. He, through the leading of the Holy Spirit, is able to reach the often unreachable.
Prophetic Entertainment Records released the debut c.d. "Keep it Moving in Faith" by Q.W.E.S.T. in 2006 and the current release of "Faith is the Key" will continue the work that God has poured into them to reach the lost, challenge the Christian community, enrich their own walk with God as well as the "chaker" (church faker) with new songs such as "Stand Up", "Soldier", "F.I.G.H.T.", and "Too Christ".
God has ordained "Gifted" and "JSIII" to form "Q.W.E.S.T." (Quintessential Wisdom Edifying & Seeking Trinity) to be a particular instrument engaged and focused to unify the body of Christ. They are passionate about the calling that God has placed on their lives and are determined to fulfill His perfect Will. Their mission: To Win Souls For God's Kingdom Through Their Music And Lifestyle.
Prophetic Entertainment Records P. O. Box 9875 Warner Robins, GA 31095-9875 866.673.2144 www.pe-records.com
"Keep it Moving in Faith because Faith is the Key"