Few artists can boast of half of the Inspirations' rich heritage. Founded in the depths of Western North Carolina, the musical heritage shared by a family produced a member that has taken music seriously for over 50 years. 

When Martin Cook was growing up, music was as vital to life as air. Even though he pursued a degree in education, it was music that completed him and made him happy. The end result has surprised everyone, including him. "I never really anticipated music as a career. When I was growing up music was just something we got together and did because it was fun," states the founder of the Inspirations. When he graduated from college to teach science and math, he had no idea he would create and manage one of the most successful groups in Southern Gospel music. Now, four and a half decades later, the Inspirations are a picture of consistency.

Few things have changed within the group over the years. An example of things that have not changed would be several of the faces. Martin Cook, founder and pianist, continues to be very involved on-stage and off. Martin takes a proactive role in the studio while recording, and also on-stage where he is still tinkling the ivories at every performance.

Original baritone Jack Laws is also still with the group, as health permits, playing guitar and providing the unique tonality that completes the classic harmony of the Inspirations. "I plan to travel and sing with the Inspirations as long as I am physically able to go on and off a stage and as long as God gives me enough breath to sing and the ability to play a musical instrument," Laws said. "I have as much or even more enthusiasm for Gospel music as when I first began my career."

Mike Holcomb, one of the lowest bass singers in any genre, has been with the Inspirations since 1972. He devotes his time off the road to preaching and evangelism. "The calling He placed upon my life is still very real," he said. "It is the reason for the things we do every day."

Myron is the son of Martin Cook and plays the upright bass. Jodi Hosterman, no stranger to Gospel music after spending several years with the Kingdom Heirs and other groups, sings tenor for the group. Lead singer David Ragan is a newcomer to the stage, but no stranger to Inspirations music. "I have been a fan of the Inspirations and their music ever since I first heard them before high school," he recalled. "To say I am excited to be a part of this quartet today would be a gross understatement. I'm thrilled to be able to be here and I'm committed to not only preserving The Inspirations' heritage, but also to build onto that heritage for the future."