St. Francis of Assisi said "Preach the gospel at all times and, if necessary, use words." What a refreshing notion in an age when we see so many well-meaning Christians literally shouting the gospel message at unbelievers, sounding more like a threat than an invitation. Taking the kinder, gentler approach to heart, J&Kat not only share their faith by singing Gospel songs with a message of love, faith, joy and hope, but also communicate their heart for adventure through material suited for the mainstream secular audience as well.
Shortly after moving to Los Angeles from Nashville and upon meeting in Hollywood, J. Michaels teamed up with LA-based recording artist Katalin, to form a duo that has become known by their fans as simply "J and Kat." Together, J&Kat have developed their modern day California country rock sound - a unique blend of influences from The Eagles to The Carpenters, from Linda Ronstadt to Jackson Browne and The Doobie Brothers. They've regularly lead worship at some of the most prominent churches in the country, including First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood and The First Church of The Nazarene in Los Angeles, where they are currently on staff.
Several of their previous releases have charted in Powersource magazine, including their debut single, "Heavenly Love," which reached the top 40 on both the Independent Country chart and the Christian Country chart. In addition to appearing on the New Music Weekly's "Up and Coming" chart for several weeks, they also recently placed 3rd in a nationwide talent competition at the Inspirational Country Music Awards, judged by A&R staff from Curb Records and Daywind Records.
J, being recognizable to many, was not only a featured actor in Vince Gill's "Feels Like Love" video with Amy Grant, but also has been a sideman for many celebrities including six years with Trisha Yearwood, in which he found himself on every talk show from Jay Leno to David Letterman. Before he launched into that successful career as a musician, he graduated from the School of Music Business at Belmont University.
After graduating with honors from the vocal program at Hollywood's prestigious Musician's Institute, Katalin became a favorite around many coffeehouses and nightspots throughout Los Angeles while working during the day at JVC records. She has also sung with a number of Contemporary Christian artists, including Michael Passons of Avalon.
Living in southern California most of her life, "Kat" was surprised to find out recently that she lived a very short distance from Michaels in Nashville several years back. Working out at the same gym without knowing each other was even more of a coincidence. With that in mind, two or two thousand miles didn't keep J and Kat from meeting each other and forming their "dynamic duo" - both onstage and off. The two decided to wed in 2004 and though active at Hollywood Presbyterian Church, they opted for an eyebrow-raising, fun-for-all Las Vegas wedding complete with an Elvis impersonator officiating the ceremony. The rest, as they say, is history and together, they offer something that will surely touch many audiences in multiple formats.
