James Robinson

I have been singing since the age of 5. My mom rehearsed with me daily. We would travel to Rochester, Buffalo, and other cities where there were churches in our conference. By age 15, I directed choirs at my church and created groups. My family has always sung in church from the time I can remember. My mother (Mary), sister (Audrey), and my Aunt (Helen) had a trio, and I loved to listen to them sing songs by the Blend Wrights. My first introduction to quartet acapella music was when I was fifteen. My mother, Aunt, and Uncle Ralph called me in and told me to sing the lead to the song. The song was Have a Little Talk with Jesus. It fits like a glove. I fell in love with quartet acapella music. After seeing in church that Saturday, a few gentlemen approached me about singing in a church quartet; Joy Divine was the quartet's name. We sang in and around Central New York, even winning a few awards. I went to college and had to stop singing with that group, but my love for quartet acapella music stayed in my heart. I left the church for a while, but when I returned to Christ, my love for music and singing for Him was stronger than ever. I started the group Five to Life with the help of my good friend Wesley Hampton, who is still in the group today. We have been singing in Five to Life for over 30 years. I have enjoyed spreading the love of Christ around Central New York at fairs, festivals, churches, games, etc. I thank God for the experience of singing acapella music, meeting new people, the relationships gained, and witnessing for Him.