For almost two decades Sharon Riley & Faith Chorale has established itself as Canada’s premier gospel group. The Toronto-based group made their international debut in 1998 with Life Is on EMI Gospel. Since then, the group has traveled extensively, won two Juno Music Awards from The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, appeared in feature films, television shows and stage musicals and have released an all new independent project – INTEGRITY.
INTEGRITY is Sharon Riley & FC’s long awaited project which was recorded live at The Church On The Queensway in Toronto, Canada. The project delivers with Riley’s powerful rich lead vocals and her choir’s vibrant choral support. Making a guest appearance on INTEGRITY is fellow Canadian Sean Simmonds, who obtained his early start in music by singing as a member in Faith Chorale, adds his signature urban hip hop vocals on the track “I Got It”. Music’s newest talented sensation Mali Music also appears on the dynamic worship track “I Shall Live” and noted vocalist Candy West contributes lead vocals on the soul fused song “The Will”. The projects title track “Integrity” is the lead radio single that allows Riley to minister a powerful message via her commanding lead vocal over an electronic fusion of orchestration.
INTEGRITY is the group’s newest collection of testimony and encouragement expressed via genuine lyrics and anointed sound and is a representation of years of perseverance in music and in ministry. This journey is also summed up with “The Journey Medley”, a wonderful reminiscing mix of Riley & FC’s hits.
Sharon Riley & Faith Chorale has built a name synonymous with strength. Sharon’s own personal journey has been characterized by struggle, longevity, and untold blessings-the stuff of unshakable faith. In the aftermath of a terrible car accident in 1990, Sharon Riley was left to reevaluate her life. “It was devastating. I woke up in the hospital, and it was a total miracle of God that I even survived,” Sharon explains. “I was totally unable to walk. Both legs were severely damaged. I had to learn to sit up, remain sitting, stand up and eventually walk again.” Although she was physically broken, Sharon’s spirit and her faith would not be diminished. While still recovering, she began to take part in a local gospel ensemble that is now known as Sharon Riley & Faith Chorale.
The milestone of being Canada’s first gospel group to sign an international contract is amplified by the long list of awards and achievements. They’ve appeared in the blockbuster film The Blues Brothers 2000 and HBO’s Light to the Power of Two. Working alongside Paul Schaffer, Riley co-arranged “John The Revelator” for The Blues Brothers 2000 Soundtrack and appeared on the Grammy Award-nominated soundtrack alongside the likes of Aretha Franklin, Erykah Badu, James Brown and Eric Clapton. Riley & FC recently appeared in an episode of the TV series Saving Hope on NBC (and CTV in Canada).
Sharon has continued to develop and lead and diversify her Faith Chorale throughout the evolution of music and the evolution of group. They are relentless in declaring the awesomeness of God where ever they are! With God as its foundation and Sharon as its rock, Faith Chorale will continue to affect and change lives with through their music. The great achievements and longevity of this group has solidified itself as a unique Canadian talent, with a new perspective and vibrant music Sharon Riley & Faith Chorale’s journey is just beginning.
