Youthful Praise - Exalted…Live In Baltimore – The DVD

By Peggy Oliver

For those who are unfamiliar with Youthful Praise 's history, youthful does not apply to an age thing, even though this praise and worship team started as their local church's youth choir.  According to former co-director Shawn Brown , the name was inspired by the Bible addressing the wisdom spoken from the mouths of babes ( Psalms 8:2 ). Obedience and dedication to honoring God without compromise pretty much explain the choir's durability of over sixteen years. On their latest CD and live recording, Exalted…Live In Baltimore , fans can now witness this exuberant ministry on DVD, graced by various soloists. The now full-time director and primary songwriter, J.J. Hairston , handles the up-front duties - both directing the choir and leading the worship festivities from The Church of the Redeemed of the Lord in Baltimore , Maryland . Hairston feeds off an energetic vibe with his appreciation for the updated choir sound, such as Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Mass Singers, and  James Hall and Worship & Praise , whom he sang with for several years. 

Youthful Praise was known in their earlier days by singing hymns and other outside contributions. Once their recording career took flight, the ensemble from TFT ( Turner's Faith Temple ) in Bridgeport, Connecticut started utilizing Brown and Hairston's songwriting skills comprised of scripturally-based, faith tested songs. Brown continues contributing in a songwriting capacity, including the earth-shattering gospel radio hit, Praise To The Rock from the 2005 CD - Live! The Praise…The Worship. Since Brown left the fold, Youthful Praise maintains the contemporary praise and worship mold, yet heading more in a direction of expanding their audience base by exploring other genres including pop and world music.

Unlike most live worship events, a guitar-driven instrumental overture replaces the usual church emcee introductions. Y.P. then launches their precise and brisk vocal styles in the opener, Sincerity , communicating unapologetic praises and expressing openness to His ways: “mold me and shape me.” Jesus Reigns loudly declares his omnipotence and majesty: "No one can kill him...no one can end his reign.” Both these tracks take a cue, somewhat, from Israel Houghton world music influences by the African flavored backdrops.

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