Prior to branching out on his own, California's Bob Carlisle was a member of Allies and Billy Thermal, though neither act ever reached the heights of his solo career. It may have taken a few years, but by 1997's effort Butterfly Kisses (Shades of Grace), the singer/songwriter became a crossover star thanks mostly to the title track (inspired by his daughter) topping the pop, contemporary Christian and country charts in the US. With a GRAMMY® and four Dove Awards for his emotive efforts, Carlisle's considered a master of faith- and family-themed storytelling.