SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – For almost 32 years Five to Life has been bringing music to Central New York.
One of the group’s founders, James Robinson says that an idea that was sparked by two friends has changed a bit over the years.
“Well, we used to be an Afro-American group,” Robinson said. “So, you can see we’ve changed a lot.”
One thing that has not changed is the group’s mission and their love for music. Though many members have come and gone, founders James Robinson and Wesley Hampton have remained the heartbeat of this group. Wesley would argue that Five to Life is one of a kind.
“We have a unique sounding harmony, and I don’t think you find too many groups that do harmony as well as we do harmony here in Central New York,” Hampton said. “If you do, we certainly would like to meet that group.”
Member Fred Hintz, who joined the group a few years back says he has one claim to fame.
“I broke the melamine barrier in this group,” Hintz said.
Rhythm and love flows through this group. From tapping toes to snapping fingers. At the end of the day for member Darrin Caster, it’s about brotherhood.
“Pure unadulterated joy,” Caster said. “It’s just the joy of singing with brothers, becoming part of a group that we just have joy and fun together. If we never sang a concert in front of people. I would be a part of it without even thinking about it.”
Each of these men come from different backgrounds. But to these five men they have the two most important things in common.
“I love music, and the gospel of Christ is center in my life,” Hintz said. “Combine those two things and it’s just wonderful, and to have people enjoy it too is just icing on the cake.”
For Robinson, music and faith are the answer.
“No matter what you’re going through, God will fix it. It will be all right,” Robinson said.
So how has Five to Life rained for over three decades? Well for founders James and Wesley it’s always been about never losing sight of the groups mission.
“Five to Life is five men doing what God would have us to do to get to heaven, and sharing it with others,” Robinson said.
A group that has been together for over three decades looks to continue its tradition for decades to come.
