Rising Above Band Biography

The Rising Above Band began their music ministry nearly three years ago when Howard Jolly, a Board member of Rising Above asked Rick Martin and Terry & Brenda Martin to join him in providing music at a Rising Above conference.

Howard, a Cree from Moose Factory, Ontario, had traveled extensively through out North America with Sonrise Gospel Band and has been a part of Rising Above since close to its inception. Presently, Howard, his wife Karen and their two children, Joel and Toby, live in Otterburne where they are studying at Providence Theological Seminary.

Rick Martin and his wife Linda, an Oji-Cree from Muskrat Dam, Ontario, and their daughters Lynette and Rochelle are based in Sioux Lookout, Ontario. Rick's family work for My People International, a mission dedicated to sharing the Gospel with Native North Americans. Rick and Linda are also intimately involved in Rising Above as Linda sits on the board and is one of the conference presenters.

Terry and Brenda along with their children, Shoshannah, Josiah, and Nathaniel live in Niverville, Manitoba. A year ago they committed themselves to mission work with First Peoples as Terry has become the Administrator for Rising Above.

Since their first time together, the band has had increasing opportunities to minister at Rising Above events, churches and gospel music festivals. In response to growing requests for their music, in July 2004 they released their first CD entitled, Everlasting Love. Their music features a blend of southern gospel, contemporary worship, hymns, and original recordings.

Lead by Howard's powerful voice and passionate heart along with Rick, Terry and Brenda's back up vocals and instruments, their music is a testimony to the Gospel message of reconciliation and healing.