Biography Richton, Mississippi native JW Cooper, Jr., may be a new face to the world of Southern Gospel Music, but he's been performing musically for many years. These days, however, JW has left the bars behind and is using his talents honed in southern rock and country music to sing a different song. God has powerfully changed his life, and this guitar-picking, ballad-writing, oil-rig engineer is travelling across the southern states to share his story. JW is a skilled musician who can play almost anything from guitar and mandolin to piano and trumpet. He is also a communicator whose vocal style and original songs touch the heart with the message of hope in Christ. JW wraps the message of Jesus in a musical and vocal talent which touches hearts of all ages. "Although I was brought up in church, I ran from God and His calling for most of my life. In November 2001 God graciously saved me from myself …He put a new song in my mouth and since then, it has been my desire to sing it, write it, play it, record it", JW relates. The focal point of his ministry, Romans 10:9 &10, is clearly evident in his songs and testimony. He strives to lift up the Lord so that everyone may be drawn to Him (John 12:32). JW was honored at the 2005 Mississippi Quartet Convention as Musician of the Year and Soloist of the Year, an award he shared with Singer-Minister Tommy Moseley. If you have a chance to experience JW in concert, you will come away blessed and encouraged; by a man who stands as a testament of God's grace and mercy. ~~ Lorraine Walker, author/publicist "Reality Check" www.sgmradio.com