JEFF TURNER

After a remarkable 25-year journey in southern gospel music, the Promised Land Quartet has announced they will be concluding their ministry as a traveling and performing group. Founded in January 2000, the group has become a beloved fixture in the gospel community, known for their harmonies, performances, and message of hope.

Gene Hamman, owner and lead singer, shared insight into the decision, reflecting on the group’s legacy and the factors that led to this turning point. “The Promised Land was founded in January of 2000. It’s been a wonderful 25 years. After a lot of prayer and soul searching, we felt the season for Promised Land was coming to an end and we decided to announce that we’re coming off the road. Our last date will be August 31st,” Hamman stated.

Throughout their career, Promised Land Quartet-comprised of Gene Hamman (lead), Joey Wilson (tenor), Aaron Swain (baritone), and Steve Barnett (bass)-toured extensively spreading their message of faith through songs like “Brand New Heart,” “I Love That Music,” and “When the Son Arrives”. Their energetic performances and unique arrangements have left a lasting mark on southern gospel music, earning them radio and chart success, as well as recognition such as a Dove Award consideration in 2008 for their album “Carved in Stone”.

Reflecting on the group’s journey, Hamman expressed gratitude for the unexpected opportunities and blessings that came their way. “God has blessed us with so many wonderful opportunities all over the United States and other countries. When we started 25 years ago, we never dreamed that those opportunities would present themselves and be bestowed upon us. And we’re humbled and grateful,” he said.

Hamman acknowledged the increasing challenges of managing the group alongside his successful secular career. “I have to be honest. For me, I still love to sing. I want to sing. I feel like at 60, I’m singing the best I’ve ever sang in my life. I feel the best I’ve felt but keeping a group on the road and being the owner of the group and you know, I have a secular career. That is thanks to God very successful, it’s just gotten to the point where as I grow older it’s a lot harder for me to keep up with everything,” Hamman explained. “I have great guys that are very helpful and they do as much as they can but still as the owner, there’s so much work behind the scenes that it takes to keep things going. And for me, I’ve just realized that I no longer have the stamina or the tenacity to continue doing that. That’s the 98% reason of why I’ve decided that it’s time to conclude this chapter in my life. And I have no regrets.”

Promised Land Quartet’s final performance is scheduled for August 31.