An "overnight success" story a decade in the making, Justin Graves is breaking into the national spotlight via his primarily Nashville-recorded album, "Heart Open Wide." Critics, podcasters and digital radio are already noting the fresh spin Graves gives to the "praise and worship" genre. Graves's distinctive approach comes from both a deep family tradition in Christian music and years spent playing for a plethora of youth/church events throughout the Southwest U.S. Justin grew up as ...

An "overnight success" story a decade in the making, Justin Graves is breaking into the national spotlight via his primarily Nashville-recorded album, "Heart Open Wide." Critics, podcasters and digital radio are already noting the fresh spin Graves gives to the "praise and worship" genre. Graves's distinctive approach comes from both a deep family tradition in Christian music and years spent playing for a plethora of youth/church events throughout the Southwest U.S. Justin grew up as a member of the celebrated Graves Family Quartet. However, a youth minister who happened to ask Justin to learn the bass guitar, started him on a path as a worship leader. The bass guitar quickly lead to the six-string guitar and Justin's first praise and worship band. By the time Justin was 24 he had heard the calling to become a full time worship leader at retreats and church services. Along with his wife, Michelle, on bass Justin formed the Brown Band and began establishing himself as worhsip leader in demand at church summer camps. In addition, Justin's gift led him to the recording studio and an active role in several productions by the Good For The Soul Music label. As one of Christian music's fastest growing labels, Good For The Soul Music has a growing catalogue of Christian CDs and DVDs of such veteran Christian artists as David Kaufman. "Heart Open Wide" was recorded in both Nashville and San Antonio with top Nashville musicians. The songs, for the most part, were "road tested" at countless church camps and worship services throughout the South and Southwest. The strong fan base Justin has been growing at these venues have been eagerly awaiting "Heart Open Wide."