Our Story

It’s been said that it takes a while for a musical group to truly bond and consistently render solid performances. Eighth Day, one of Southern Gospel’s most recognizable trio’s, certainly proves that point. They have had the same members since 2002 and have a created a sound and style that audiences and radio listeners everywhere immediately connect with. A string of hit songs in the most recognizable charts reporting Southern Gospel music has been the norm for many years. Fifteen consecutive singles were all Top 40 in the Singing News, with a Number 1 in 2011. Multiple number 1 songs have been among that group in many other reporting outlets.  A consistent stream of quality songs, coupled with an ongoing presence in many national trade magazines served to expand the ever-growing fan base of Eighth Day. Southern gospel radio and television have embraced their music, with heavy airplay resulting in many new ministry supporters.  A reduced travel schedule for the past couple of years has given new energy to this anointed SC based ministry. “We took some time away to live the life cycle that God has so richly blessed us with, focusing on our relationship with him and our family unit”,  Joni Robinson shared. The hiatus has renewed this talented trio, and a plan has been set in motion to once again travel full-time sharing the gospel in song.
 
 Featured vocalist Joni Robinson is recognized as one of southern gospel music’s best talents. Having established herself solidly among the elite female voices in Christian music today, Joni is endearing audiences around the country with her sweet southern style. "I felt a tremendous calling from the Lord to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the lost while encouraging the believer," Joni states. "I had been singing regionally for many years, but realized I was being called to full-time ministry in 2002." Heeding the call, Joni embarked on a journey that continues to amaze her as she watches the plan of God unfold before her. Joni is the proud mom of Caleb, a United States Naval Officer stationed in Virginia, and Logan, a college student that continues to fill their home with joy!

 The emcee and tenor singer for Eighth Day is Joni's husband Scott. He draws on funny life experience to humor crowds, yet never misses an opportunity to extend the invitation to accept Christ. "I try to encourage folks with the funny things that happen to us in our daily lives, Scott says. I want people to bask in the joy that God places in each of our hearts. Most of all, though, I want to see the lost come to know Jesus." As an ordained Minister, Scott is also available for speaking at special services and events. Scott is the business manager for the ministry as well as responsible for performance audio. In his spare time, he enjoys running and collecting guitars.

 The baritone singer and office manager is Derek Parker. He is one of the top young talents in Southern Gospel Music today and provides the solid foundation for the challenging vocal arrangements of the group. Derek has become a favorite all across the country with his gentle personality endearing our friends everywhere. Derek is married to the lovely Karilyn and is the proud father of three year old Weston. They reside in Roebuck, SC. He spends his spare time experimenting with the latest electronic gadgets and collecting vintage Southern Gospel Music.
 
 
 Asked about the future of Eighth Day, Scott responded, "We are here for the long haul. We understand the commitment required to build a ministry like those we have chosen as role models. Look at Greater Vision, The Hoppers, and The Whisnants. Those folks display an unwavering dedication to God, family, and then the ministry. Yet they never do anything with less than 100% integrity. That is the kind of ministry we are striving to have. At the end of the day, I am responsible for our direction and the decisions we make, and anything less than excellence is unacceptable. I think the Bible is very clear regarding how we should do all things, as unto the Lord." It is evident to the casual observer that these guys understand the significance of the role they have assumed, and stand ready to put forth the necessary effort to fill it to the best of their ability. Joni spoke volumes saying, " We don't necessarily understand why God chose to trust us with His ministry, but rest assured we understand the task at hand. We need to save the lost, one song at a time."
 
 With their recent time of reduced traveling fueling an already smoldering desire to expand their presence in the Southern Gospel industry, look for Eighth Day to become more and more visible as the days roll on. While their focus is leading worship in a church setting, Eighth Day can be found in many different venues throughout the year such as concerts, fairs, and other Christian events. Audiences are leaving Eighth Day concerts uplifted, encouraged, and spiritually renewed. They have seen many people come to know Christ at their services. That alone, summarizes the mission of these three talented individuals.