MIKE JEREL

Age: 31
Hometown: Ashburn, Georgia
Residence: Columbus, Georgia

Mike grew up with a single mom and grandmother who helped raise him and his brother. He was inspired to pursue music after his grandmother bought him a drum set. She would sing at retirement homes and take him along so he could play backup. Spending this time with her taught him to always give back. Mike went on to study music education and became a middle school chorus teacher. He lost his grandmother to cancer in 2014, but started a foundation in her name where he performs at retirement homes just like she did. Outside of the foundation, Mike now sings on a cruise ship and teaches private vocal lessons.