Episode 226 - Mike Jerel

From his hometown of Ashburn, Georgia, Mike Jerel, an educator, forges a deep connection with his audience through music that speaks directly to the soul. He’s influenced by and compared to some of the very best:  Stevie Wonder, Lenny Williams, Miles Davis, Bruno Mars and PJ Morton.

Mike’s humble musical roots began while traveling the streets of Turner County with his grandmother, offering songs of comfort to those convalescing – performance pay, a McDonald’s Happy Meal. Fast-forward to formal studies at Columbus State University’s Schwob School of Music. He studied voice with Professor Earl Coleman, was cast as Nemorino in the opera, The Elixir of Love, won Georgia and Southeast Regional NATS Competitions and sang with Schwob’s Choral Union and University Singers.

Mike immersed himself into CSU’s Popular Music Ensemble and Top Jazz Combo. Stepping into the professional world armed with his music degree, Jerel was schooled again; this time in the world of corporate gigs and cover bands. Stints with River City Horns, Fountain City Players, Deeper Shades of Soul, aka D.S.O.S., P-Funk Connection, and the Chemistry Project Band helped mold his stage show.

Mike’s vocal and keyboard flair caught the attention of notable musicians including John Legend, Nick Jonas, Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton, Brittany Howard, Alabama Shakes and Carlos Samayoa, resulting in performances on NBC’s hit TV show, The Voice, (receiving a 4 chair turn during his performance of “It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World” on Season 18) and throughout Alaska & Canada with the B.B. King’s All-Stars at Sea.

Most recently, Mike toured and showcased his vocal prowess as the lead singer for R&B/Soul group, Tower of Power, captivating audiences worldwide for a 2-year stint.