Yaves (pronounced yah-viss) is not only a street pastor but has a formal theology background. He balanceshis informal “life education” with a formal education from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business. Yaves is currently working on a Masters degree in Theology as well as continuing to educate the masses about life, Christ and hope, in song. Yaves Ellis attracted the attention of Xist Music with his ministry-minded focus, business savvy and unique style of mixtapes (25,000 downloads) of his Sling Shot Media Group releases including “Prince Among Thieves” Vol. 1 & 2 and “In Summer’s Ear”. Founded in 2008, the collective of service-oriented music street ministers called the Slingshot Clique has effected social change throughout the Columbus area. Yaves is also the youngest person to ever hold the title of Public Affairs Director in the 70+ station Radio One conglomerate. And in between ministerial and corporate endeavors he finds time connect with some of his fellow Ohio State U Alumni business partners to run their high-end urban street fashion boutique, Soleclassics. Yaves will join the company of fellow label mates Jahaziel, The Ambassador, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., Andalé and Xist label president and vocalist, Sean Simmonds. “I love his energy and work ethic,” says T. Black, CEO of Xist Music. “His creative ways to present the gospel adds another facet to the Xist family and contributes to the longevity of our brand.” “I’m excited about my new home at Xist Music,” says Yaves. “The opportunity to join a roster of artists that I’ve studied and admired from a far is truly humbling. At the end of the day I’ve always wanted to be in a place that would allow me to be myself with no apologies. God knew exactly what He was doing when He orchestrated this situation. It’s history in progress from here.”