Southern Gospel trio 11th Hour is encouraging listeners to keep trusting God through life's toughest seasons with their stirring new single, "Just Keep The Faith." Written by Amber Eppinette Saunders alongside Kenna Turner West and Jason Cox, the Sonlite Records release pairs heartfelt lyrics with a soulful, African-American gospel-inspired arrangement that reminds believers to hold on to God's promises even when the road ahead feels uncertain.
Since forming in 2012, 11th Hour has built a reputation as one of Southern Gospel's most consistent and uplifting groups, earning multiple Singing News Top 10 hits while ministering to audiences across the country. In this conversation, the trio reflects on the heart behind their new anthem, the personal struggles that shaped its message, the songs that have left the greatest impact on their ministry, and what fans can expect next.
Q: For readers who may be discovering 11th Hour for the first time, how would you describe the group's ministry, musical style, and the journey that has brought you from your beginnings in 2012 to where you are today?
Our ministry has always been centered on sharing the Gospel and reaching those who don't know Christ, while also encouraging believers who have faithfully served in ministry for many years. We have a heart for those who may feel stuck or discouraged, and we want to help inspire them to keep moving forward in their calling.
When it comes to our music, we never begin with the question, "What style do we want to write today?" Instead, we let the message of the song lead the process, choosing the melody and arrangement that best communicates what we're trying to say. Because of that, our music naturally spans a variety of styles, from country gospel to worship.
This ministry began with a calling God placed on the heart of a 16-year-old in Monroe, Louisiana (Amber). That calling continues today, and while we're now based in Tennessee, the mission remains the same: to share the hope of Christ through music and ministry.
Q: Your new single, "Just Keep The Faith," carries a powerful message of perseverance and hope. What was it about this song that immediately resonated with you, and why did you feel it was the right message to share with listeners right now?
I think it's easy to place people on a pedestal because they have a title or stand on a stage, but the truth is the ground is level at the foot of the cross. No one is exempt from the challenges and hardships of life, regardless of their position or platform.
That's why it's so important for us, as the body of Christ, to encourage one another, carry each other's burdens, and remain steadfast in our faith together.
Q: Amber, you've said that this song serves as a reminder that even a small spark of faith can help us keep moving forward. Can you share a season in your own life or ministry when that message became especially meaningful to you?
There are several moments that come to mind, but one stands out above the rest. There was a season when I seriously considered walking away from ministry. I was mentally and physically exhausted, and I wasn't seeing the results I thought I should be seeing. I questioned whether I was making any difference at all.
Even in that season, I kept praying. I didn't quit. By God's grace, I chose to persevere, even with what felt like very little faith.
Later, I learned that a man who was on the verge of taking his own life came across our song, "He Sees What We Don't." Through that song, he found hope and chose life. He had no idea what I had been struggling with behind the scenes or that I had been ready to give up myself.
That experience reminded me that God is always at work, even when we can't see it. Our responsibility is to remain faithful to the calling He's given us and trust Him with the results. His patience, grace, and strength carried me through that difficult season, and it taught me that even small faith, placed in God's hands, can make an eternal difference.
Q: "Just Keep The Faith" reflects the emotional intensity and encouragement often found in African-American gospel music. How have different gospel traditions influenced the sound, ministry, and identity of 11th Hour through the years?
We really enjoy a wide variety of music. As long as it's uplifting, meaningful, and reflects positive values, we can appreciate just about any genre. We don't limit ourselves to one particular style because we believe the music should serve the message.
For us, it always comes back to choosing the sound that best complements the lyrics and communicates the heart of the song.
Q: Over the years, 11th Hour has delivered several chart-topping songs that have connected deeply with Southern Gospel audiences. Looking back at your past hits, which song do each of you most enjoy singing live, and what makes it particularly special every time you perform it?
I would say that, in a concert setting, the favorite song is "Power in Prayer." It's one that really seems to resonate with people wherever we go.
As for us, our favorite song to sing is "He Sees What We Don't." Because of the message behind it and the lives it's touched, it holds a very special place in our hearts.
Q: As you celebrate the release of "Just Keep The Faith," what can fans look forward to next from 11th Hour? Are there plans for more new music, a larger recording project, or other exciting ministry opportunities in the near future?
YES, YES, AND YES. Stay tuned.
"Just Keep The Faith" is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL. Listen to it HERE.
