J.J. Hairston

James "J.J." Hairston is a gospel singer, songwriter, and the driving force behind Youthful Praise, also known as YP, a prominent gospel choir in the United States. As the leader, chief songwriter, and director of Youthful Praise, Hairston is recognized for the group's energetic, urban-influenced gospel and praise and worship music. After years of singing in the choir, Hairston became co-director of Youthful Praise alongside Shawn Brown. When Brown left to become a pastor, Hairston assumed the role of director, continuing to co-write, arrange, and produce many of the choir's songs while developing its distinctive sound.

Founded as a 35-member church choir in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Youthful Praise has grown into a nationally recognized ensemble, frequently appearing on the Billboard charts and inspiring worshipers globally. The group released its first album, "Awesome God," with Evidence Gospel, and the title track became popular among church choirs, contributing to the success of their debut. Hairston and Youthful Praise gained mainstream attention after performing with Shirley Caesar and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child at the Stellar Awards. The choir's television appearances have included "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," the Stellar Awards, and Bobby Jones Gospel. During the TV special "Lady Gaga and the Muppets Holiday Spectacular," Hairston and the choir performed alongside Miss Piggy.

J.J. Hairston and Youthful Praise have influenced gospel music with songs such as "Incredible God," "You Deserve It," "Miracle Worker," and "No Reason To Fear," earning national and international recognition. Their worship anthem "You Deserve It" achieved significant success, reaching No. 1 on multiple Billboard Magazine charts, including the Hot Gospel Songs Chart, Hot Gospel Song Artists Chart, the Gospel Air Play Chart, and the Gospel Digital Songs Chart. Hairston has written or co-written several Billboard chart-topping songs, including "Resting on Promise" and "Incredible God - Incredible Praise."

Hairston and Youthful Praise have received multiple Stellar Gospel Music Awards, a Billboard Music Award, an ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Award, and a Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Performance/Song. The choir has performed on national platforms such as Good Morning America, the McDonald's Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, T.D. Jakes' MegaFest, and the Essence Music Festival. In addition to performing, Hairston launched the syndicated radio show "Youthful Praise with JJ Hairston" and is the CEO and founder of Jamestown Music, a label distributed by Entertainment One. He also co-authored the book "Amazing Love." Through his work as a performer, songwriter, label executive, and broadcaster, Hairston has contributed to the evolution of gospel music ministry worldwide.