Michael D. Smejkal, known as Smudge D, is a Christian hip-hop artist, producer, and founder of Higher Power Ent, launched in 2020 during the pandemic alongside Eric Cohen, Gaz Pailing, and Christian Butler. A God-driven visionary, Smudge created the label to develop artists and spread healing and deliverance through faith. The label has been featured on platforms like Movement Underground 9.0, Your Hope Radio, Glacier FM, and the Gospel Music Awards, with artists now touring globally.

Born in Illinois, Smudge’s early life was marked by hardship—his father’s criminal ties forced his mother to flee with him and his brother. They bounced between states, surviving poverty, abuse, and homelessness. Music was his escape, and by 15, he was crafting hip-hop tracks. However, he fell into addiction, gang life, and violence in Chicago, nearly losing his life many times.

After hitting rock bottom—losing a relationship, caring for his cancer-stricken mother, and overdosing multiple times—God spoke to him during his lowest moment. With the support of Ally, the love of his life, he detoxed, found healing, and was reborn in Christ.

In 2019, they moved to Colorado, and Smudge dedicated his life to ministry. He launched the Faith from Flames Podcast in 2022 to bring hope to those in darkness. In 2024, he became Editor-in-Chief of CHH JAMZ Magazine, which debuted in January 2025, spotlighting Christian hip-hop artists and uplifting the community.

Smudge D remains committed to serving God in all he does, big or small, always aiming to bring light to those lost in the dark.