Youthful Praise is an American gospel choir founded in 1991 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Led by James “J.J.” Hairston, the collective began as a 35-member church choir and has since grown into a nationally and internationally recognized gospel music powerhouse. They are known for their high-energy performances and for blending traditional gospel sounds with contemporary urban influences.
Throughout their career, Youthful Praise has released music through various record labels. They have been associated with Evidence Gospel/Light Records, and more recently, J.J. Hairston’s JamesTown Music label entered a partnership deal with Motown Gospel in November 2024. They have achieved significant success on the Billboard charts and have won multiple Stellar Awards for their impactful albums, which include “You Deserve It” and “Miracle Worker (Live).”
