The Shenandoah Valley has a rich heritage in southern Gospel Music. In March, of the year 2000, a quartet was formed to carry this fine tradition into the new century. They are, *THE PROMISEDLAND QUARTET*, an exciting group of male vocalists based in Edinburg, Virginia. Individually they have ministered in churches, concert halls, schools, and outside events in nearly 25 states, and have performed on regional television and played on Gospel Radio nationwide. Collectively, they have over 60 years of gospel experience. Remarkable, considering that the average member age is only 42! Following the example of some of the *80s and *90s *super quartets*, PromisedLand in such a very short time, has been identified as having a *big traditional sound*. Diehard quartet fans ask; does the bass singer sing LOW? Of course! Can the tenor really go UP? Most certainly! But more importantly, the group has a well-balanced blend of voices and personalities that allows for quite a variety of styles and moods during every concert (if you enjoy laughing, you will not be disappointed).
Successful ministry requires: commitment, willingness to work, a prayerful heart, spiritual focus, and certainly vocal talent would not hurt. These gentlemen have all of these qualities in abundance and more. They have an obvious joy for the message in the music that they sing. Let’s meet them:
Biography
Mr. Joe Brinkley- has a unique bass voice and tone that is a constant source of amazement to concert goers. Drawing his inspiration from Southern Gospel Legend, George Younce, his low range already rivals that of today's best know bass singers. Joe began singing at an early age, and was encouraged to participate in all church musical functions by his parents who led the children and adult choirs. Joe has been a part of several regional music ministries and of course has ministered with his musical family. He resides in Bland, Virginia, is single, and at 35, he is the youngest member of the group
Mr. Kevin Minnick is one of the co-founders of the quartet and sings the Baritone part. With a keen ear for harmony, Kevin helps with the vocal arrangements. Growing up in a musical family, he has also toured with many well-known regional favorites, frequently using his proficient bass playing abilities. Mr. Minnick received his secondary education from Eastern Mennonite College and Shenandoah University, where he learned his current trade of Piano tuning. He is the seasoned veteran of the group at only 50 years of age. Kevin is a life-long member of Wakeman*s Grove Church of the Brethren. He resides in Edinburg, VA. with his wife Vicki, who frequently assists with the PLQ Ministry product table. The couple has a daughter, Tiffany, and a son, Anthony who currently attends Virginia Tech.
Mr. Gene Hamman- is the co-founder, road manager, booking agent, and emcee for PROMISEDLAND, not to mention Lead Singer. His strong vocals provide much of the big sound the group has become known for. His sincerity and joy displayed throughout any given concert is quite contagious, and combine well with his sense of humor. He is frequently consulted for his expert technical advice during sound system installation or for Live sound applications. Now 43, Gene and his very supportive wife, Amy, make their home in Edinburg, VA., with their very active teenage sons, Chad, Trevor, and Zachary.
As you can plainly see, this is a well-rounded group of individuals, with various backgrounds, abilities, and interests. And yet one thing unifies them, Southern Gospel Music. They have recognized the talents God has given them, accepted the call to use them, and have stepped out in faith to minister in his name. Share a concert with the PROMISEDLAND QUARTET and you just might experience the joy that *love of the music* can bring.
Mr. Joey Wilson --has a powerful tenor voice, some would say is quite unique to Southern Gospel Music. His spirited vocal style does not take it's cue from Quartet tenors of the past but from traditional and Black Gospel experiences. The son of a Church of God preacher, and part of a singing family; gospel and church music comes naturally. Now 42, he has been singing on stage since the age of 5. Having studied voice and piano, Joey has spent numerous years working as a music minister at regional churches, is responsible for most of the PLQ arrangements. Currently living in Warrenton Va., enjoys producing Gospel music in his digital recording studio in his spare time
