Twenty-two-year-old singer/songwriter Joy Williams can't help but smile when she talks about her life as though it's just now beginning. And in many ways, it's true.

It's been nearly five years since Joy emerged onto the music scene with the 2001 release of her critically-acclaimed, self-titled debut album. Just 17 years old then, she was juggling the challenges of high school with the demanding schedule of a recording artist. By the time her sophomore effort, By Surprise, released in 2002, Joy had logged more than 400 days on the road performing before crowds around the world.

Joy's engaging personality has always transcended her music and earned her legions of loyal fans across the globe. Her industry accolades include five Dove Award nominations, including a nod for the prestigious Female Vocalist of the Year honor for three consecutive years. Her radio success includes the No. 1 single "Every Moment," and CCM Magazine (2/2002) readers even voted Joy the "Best New Artist."