Musicians you should know: Jay Leach

I received a call from Jay Leach in Southern California a few months ago.  Jay had been listening to his local Christian radio station and heard about Cross International’s work rescuing orphans in Africa and Guatemala, and was moved to call.

Jay and I had a great discussion.  As a professional guitarist, he has been on-call for the American Idol band for several seasons as a “utility man”, playing banjo, pedal steel, and other instruments.  He also has gigged with Dolly Parton and Albert Lee and has published arrangements with Mel Bay.

Jay is also a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, having been involved with churches in the SoCal area for many years and working with some premiere Christian musicians including Kirk Whalum, Abe Laboriel, Justo Almaria, Bill Cantos, and others.

I found him to be  a great guy, humble, possessing an infectious positive outlook and exuding the joy of the Lord through his musicianship.  As evidence, check out the video below (also viewable from his MySpace page).

God touched Jay’s heart regarding the needs of the poor.  He said, “What can I do to help?”

Lord, may You be pleased to increase his number.