Gospel Singer, Songwriter & Choir Director; Leader of Youthful Praise; Grammy-Nominated Artist; Billboard Award Winner
J.J. Hairston Biography
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.
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Speaking fees for J.J. Hairston, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book J.J. Hairston are $20,000 - $30,000 for live events and $10,000 - $20,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire J.J. Hairston, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does J.J. Hairston speak about?
J.J. Hairston is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Black Heritage, Black History Month, Celebrity, Christian, College, Diversity & Inclusion, Faith & Religion, Faith & Religion, Family & Parenting, Music -
Where does J.J. Hairston travel from?
J.J. Hairston generally travels from Bridgeport, CT, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
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J.J. Hairston is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book J.J. Hairston for your event is $20,000 - $30,000. J.J. Hairston generally travels from Bridgeport, CT, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Kierra Sheard, DOE, Zacardi Cortez, Tye Tribbett and Israel Houghton. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling J.J. Hairston for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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