Radiate Music recently announced the signing of Raleigh, NC-based singer / songwriter and worship leader Justin Warren, who is set to release his debut single later this week (Friday, September 30). With a heart to communicate the hope we have in Jesus, Warren has shared stages across the country with artists like Mercy Me, Sanctus Real, Building 429, Natalie Grant and more. Justin is currently featured on the “Bigger Story Tour” with Red Street Records artist Cade Thompson, which is being presented by child sponsorship and adoption agency, Holt International. In this TCB Exclusive, Justin talks about what inspired his CCM career, the journey to getting signed to Radiate Music and how he hopes his debut single, “All Things Well,” resonates with listeners.
Your bio shares that you’re a singer/songwriter and worship leader. When did you first realize that you had a passion for music? Did you first connect with live performances or writing?
I first realized my passion for music as a 6th grader at my church’s summer camp. I really wanted to be a drummer in a Christian band. My Dad told me that if I would take band class at school that he would buy me a drumset. So of course, I did, and I was a percussionist all the way until I graduated high school. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I would pick up a guitar and begin singing. I will never forget shortly after that going to a Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin and Casting Crowns concert. That is what really inspired me to start writing songs. I felt the Lord move that night and I walked out of the concert wanting to write songs that made much of Jesus and filled people with hope.
In addition to these identifiers, what else would you like to share about yourself and who you are?
On September 29th I will celebrate being married to my beautiful wife Laura for 15 years. We have two amazing boys Luke (11) and Liam (7). We also have three dogs and I am still not sure why haha. One random fact is that I love to play golf.
For those who may not be familiar with you, how do you describe your sound?
I have always described my sound as pop/rock.
Thinking back on the journey to getting signed to Radiate Music, is there a moment (or a handful) that stands out to you?
Honestly, the whole journey sticks out to me. I know I don’t have time to walk through all of that but when I look back I see God’s goodness and mercy on my life. I see His grace when I have failed. I see His patience when I have wandered. I can see His presence in the seasons of waiting. If I had to pick one thing that does stand out it would be that I didn’t see any of this coming. It was a God thing. I was in a season where I was looking and searching for what God wanted me to do next. A good friend of mine named JJ Weeks introduced me to Ian Eskelin. I had the wonderful opportunity to work with him in the studio and now I am signed to his label. I almost still can’t believe it. I am so honored, humbled and thankful for the opportunity.
What are you most looking forward to with your recent signing to Radiate Music?
The first thing would probably be getting to work side by side with Ian Eskelin. He is so talented and I count it a great privilege to work with him. The second would be getting to release new music. Radiate Music is such a great family to be a part of and I am excited to see what God has in store for the days ahead.
How do you feel your label debut single will preview your future music?
I know it probably sounds typical for an artist to say this, but I really believe it’s the best song that I have ever been a part of. I can’t wait to share it with the world. I pray that God uses it for His glory and that it encourages people. I am thankful for Ian helping me be true to who I am as an artist while also allowing us to find fresh new sounds.
You’re currently preparing to get out on tour with Cade Thompson (embarked on September 9). What new songs will you be performing out on tour?
I am so thankful for the opportunity to be out with Cade on the Bigger Story Tour. It is going to be a great time. I will be performing my debut single “All Things Well.” I am excited to play this song live. I love the energy of the song, but more than that, I love the message behind the song and I am praying that it ministers to people. Outside of that song, I will be playing some of my older songs like “God Is On Your Side” and “Moments.”
What are you most expectant for in the rest of this year?
To see how God uses this new season and chapter of my life. To see how He uses this new song. My prayer is for His name to be lifted high.
