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We want our ministry
through song with the help of the anointing to change lives, intercept moves of the enemy, bring peace of mind, and provoke
praise unto God.
Clarkwise Bio
A Deacon, (Deacon Obie) approached us one day, and said, “One day you ladies are going to sing.”
We laughed because the vision had not yet taken shape. The eldest three sisters, Sandra, LaTanya and Rochell began singing
at the ages of 10, 9, and 8 respectively. We sang “The Beautiful Garden of Prayer”, which was one of the
Senior Choir’s songs at Full Gospel Church in Martinsville, VA. This event was our first appearance and led to
the birth of the group. We didn’t realize the impact that our singing would have on others until we received our first
standing ovation that same year after singing “The Battle Hymn of The Republic”.
Once our mother
recognized our talent, she would take every opportunity to make us rehearse, especially before going to church services.
She would ask, “What are you going to sing tonight?” We would laughingly say, “Sing? I don’t
know.” She would get a switch, and say, “Stand right here in front of me, and sing it now.” We laughed,
and did not take her seriously, but she immediately turned a serious cheek on us and made us prepare before getting dressed
for our services. At that time, we did not understand the importance of the rehearsal routine, but thank God, she did.
Again, we were Elementary School kids and didn’t have the desire to perfect songs. This casual attitude continued until
we figured out that rehearsal was not an option, but mandatory, so we complied.
We were expected to prepare
for every Talent Hour, YPHA, Literary Program, Prayer Band Union, Convention, and Convocation. Our performances expanded
to company dinners, weddings, anniversaries, and retirement parties.
Our youngest sister Timbla expressed
an interest in the group, and she was later allowed to join in and complete our group. Our brother Leon provided his
drumming skills to the group.
We
represent the bond of family and Christian values…
. Our tight harmony was developed from years of singing behind our father who is a Pastor. He had his
own built in choir/group to travel with him to his various speaking engagements.
Clarkwise grew up as preacher’s kids. Our father played the piano,
which was set up in the living room, the official singing room. It didn’t take much for the entire family to start gathering
in the living room and singing songs along with the stereo or by the sound of the piano alone. When we journeyed to Church,
the 8-track tape player was rolling and we began to sing. The car just rocked as we traveled down the road.
By the time we reached High School, we had taken full responsibility for the success of our group by selecting our own songs
and scheduling our rehearsals.
Originally, our material consisted of quartet and choir songs. One day in
the early 80’s, a church member brought an album by our house, because they wanted us to hear this new group called
The Clark Sisters. We were appalled because that was the name we were using at the time, and wondered who they were
anyway. Needless to say, when we heard them we were blown away, and were never the same. We now had access to music
that complimented our style and harmony. We were immediate fans; they were our musical heroes. We are thrilled
to say that we have come full circle now that we are blessed to have Twinkie Clark share the microphone on one song on our
upcoming CD titled “Brand New.”
We sing songs of healing and deliverance…
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Much emphasis has been
placed on reaching the world, but we, as Christians need to hear an uplifting message as we continue in this race too. The
message is for anyone who needs to hear a life-changing word, with a special emphasis on those who are still holding on!
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The group proudly awaits the introduction of the “Clarkwise” style to the nations.
1Ki 19:12 And after the earthquake a fire; [but] the LORD [was] not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
A delicate, tranquil, serene, melodic experience birthed to fertilize your situation with the encouragement
and reassurance of God’s unending Compassion, Mercy, and Grace…
Clarkwise has volunteered our
talents for the following causes:
Angels Among Us – (Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Foundation – Duke Medical Center)
Joyner Elementary School – Career Day
Sumner Elementary School – Black History
We have
performed for the following:
Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar Greensboro Chapter
The INSP CATS Talent Search
NC Gospel Announcers’ Guild
1510’s City Stage - Won 1st Place
1510’s Fun Fourth - Won 1st Place
A&T State University Midnight Musical coordinated by Greg Drumwright
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