Upon first listen to the debut single "Paradise", new artist, Coby James, showcases the instincts and song craft of a seasoned veteran. It's only when you learn that not only is he 17 years old, he also co-produced, wrote and performed the instruments on the single, that you truly grasp Coby's vast potential.

What drives "Paradise" calls to mind "Room For Squares"-era John Mayer- with its nimble "Belief"-esque guitar riff that opens the song. The refreshingly honest semi-autobiographical lyric delivered with the confidence and swagger of Ed Sheeran reminds the listener that all the trappings that life throws can't compare to a life of following God. An openly devout Christian, Coby shares what drives him the most: "I want people to see my perspective as a teenager going through life. Hopefully they see where I find my hope and my peace and that God is where I find my strength."

With a 5-song EP and 31 city tour with Grammy-nominated and Dove award winning artist, Danny Gokey on the way this fall, the future looks bright for the guitar slinging wunderkind.