J&Kat

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 that kinder, gentler approach to heart, J&Kat share their faith by singing songs with a message of love, faith, joy and hope. Their much anticipated new album, “Upward and Onward”, is an upbeat collection of songs that inspire and encourage.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 California pop sound – a unique blend of influences from The Eagles to The Carpenters, from Linda Rondstadt to David Bowie 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. 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. But with this latest effort, J&Kat feel like they’ve really found their home – in the Soft AC/Inspirational category.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 Johnny Carson to David Letterman. Before he launched into that successful career as a musician, he graduated from the prestigious Mike Curb 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.