Broken Chains is a Christian Rock band from Michigan, featuring the exceptional vocal talent and amazing life story of Larry Cleveringa. With the combined writing talents of Larry, Julie Ball (keyboard) and Scott Ball (guitar), Broken Chains brings its audiences powerful and emotional songs that deal with everyday life. With the solid rhythm provided by bass player Kris Simmons and drummer Dave Saylor, the band holds the attention of it's audiences and keeps them focused on a life free from the chains of bondage.
Broken Chains exists to bring about the awareness and knowledge needed to combat alcoholism, addiction, and sin. In the end – as is with all things that are set against God – Christ, His son, is the answer.
When we come to the end of our road and there is no hope left, there is one thing that will never change: God’s love for us. Sin is sin in God’s eyes. We are the ones who have put labels on things. It is the sole purpose of Satan to keep us from knowing the love God has for us. Through the distractions of this life, this world around us, and the lies so many now believe, Broken Chains strives to bring truth about the things that bind us and hold us captive. To set the captives free, to find the power of God’s love for us and live as His children – this is Broken Chains Ministries.
Larry Cleveringa - Vocals
After many years in drug and alcohol addiction, Larry has found freedom in Christ and now wants to give his life back to Him through his music. Larry pours his life experiences into the songs performed by Broken Chains, and spends much of his spare time helping others through the journey to freedom from addiction. Larry lives in Zeeland, Michigan with his wonderful wife Lois and their 2 kids, Ashleigh and Colton.
To my brother and sisters in Christ,
In my life, I have seen many things,
I have done many things.
I have known great sorrow, pain, and loneliness.
I have lived in fear of God and man, and have used both for good and bad.
I have stood at the gates of Hell and peered through to the other side.
God, himself, pulled me from the flames and while I was still smoking from the heat, set me on the rock of Jesus and said:
“Go, my child, be FREE!
Tell them of my love for them, and help them to find me…”
Julie Ball - Keyboards
Julie has a gift for writing emotional and memorable songs. She is also the one who helps keep us organized and on task! Her passion is to lead people to the throne in worship. She currently leads worship at her church and is a wonderful Mom to 3 kids - Megan, Erin, and Calvin. Oh - and the guitar player, that's her's too!
Scott Ball - Guitars
Although primarily a keyboard player, Scott chose to find a different instrument after meeting Julie. He truly enjoys the song writing process and the collaboration with Julie and Larry. The 3 crossed paths many years ago at a small church in Holland, MI. A few years later their paths crossed again - God's hands have been guiding the formation of this band for years!
Dave Saylor - Drums
Dave has also traveled the hard road of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. His love of music and gratefulness to God drives him to stay in ministry through the band and to serve others through his work with teens in recovery. As well as providing a steady beat for the band, Dave also provides much of the comic relief and a unique perspective of what matters in life.
Kris Simmons - Bass
Kris has been around music all his life, and loves to use his talent for ministry. He has played in worship and rock bands over the years, and has loved being part of Broken Chains Ministries over the past few years. He is married to Sherry and has 2 teenage kids. They live in the Zeeland area.