Jay Ernest (born Jay Ernest Kalk, January 11, 1975) is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and performer from New Ulm, Minnesota, celebrated for his deep baritone voice, vintage flair, and lifelong dedication to American roots music. Growing up on a rural farm, Jay saved money from summer work to buy his first guitar at age thirteen — the first step in what would become a decades-long musical journey.
Jay first gained attention touring and recording with bands spanning ska, rock, and reggae before finding his enduring calling rooted in classic country and rockabilly. He is best known as the frontman and creative force behind Church of Cash, the internationally touring Johnny Cash tribute band he formed in Honolulu in 2010. The band relocated to Minnesota and has since played thousands of shows across the United States and Europe, earning accolades including “Best Tribute Act” from the Midwest Country Music Organization and induction into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame for Jay in 2021.
In addition to his tribute work, Jay co-created and stars in The Folsom Prison Experience — a theatrical, immersive concert event that re-creates Johnny Cash’s historic 1968 performance at Folsom Prison. Praised for its innovative storytelling and raw musical power, the production has become a fan favorite on stages nationwide.
Jay’s solo career adds an exciting chapter to his musical journey. His album Hold Your Horses (2024), co-written with Grammy-nominated songwriter David Ray Stevens (who has written for Jelly Roll and other major artists), blends authentic storytelling with classic American roots sounds. Several songs from the project hit high positions on the iTunes Country charts, signaling his rise as a compelling solo artist.
In May 2024, Jay collaborated with the esteemed Italian roots band Don Diego Trio to record Go Tell ’Em — a vintage-style dance album tracked live in Milan using only four microphones and 1950s recording techniques. Released by El Toro Records in Europe, the project fuses Jay’s American croon with Don Diego’s retro twang and features a co-written track with legendary guitarist Bill Kirchen of Commander Cody fame.
Over his career, Jay has performed in a wide range of musical styles and settings — from rock ’n’ roll and reggae to country, ska, and classic Cash-inspired Americana — all united by his passionate delivery and commitment to heartfelt performance. Whether commanding a stage in front of thousands or recording with international collaborators, Jay Ernest continues to honor the past of American roots music while forging his own creative path forward.
*Midwest Country Music Organizations (Best Tribute) in 2021 and 2019
*Inducted to the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame 2021
*Co-wrote and starring in the Johnny Cash production "Folsom Prison Experience" since 2020, showcasing the essence of American roots music through the talents of the country singer Jay Ernest.
Follow Jay Ernest as he shares his American roots music on social media and through the blog on this site. You can be a part of his journey as a country singer.