The World’s Premier Johnny Cash Tribute!

Church of Cash – Band Biography

The Church of Cash is not just a band; it’s a mission. Founded by frontman Jay Ernest, this award-winning tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash brings the spirit, sound, and soul of the Man in Black to life with striking authenticity and raw energy.

With a deep respect for Cash’s timeless catalog and a passion for performing, Church of Cash delivers everything from early hits like “Folsom Prison Blues” and “I Walk the Line” to the powerful late-era ballads of the American Recordings. But they’re more than just a tribute—they’re a spiritual revival of classic American music, offering a fresh yet faithful interpretation that resonates with audiences of all generations.

Since forming in 2010, Church of Cash has played thousands of shows across the U.S. and Europe, earning praise for their spot-on musicianship, stage presence, and reverence for the source material. In 2019 and 2021, they were voted Best Tribute Band by the Midwest Country Music Organization, and Jay Ernest was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in 2021.

Whether on grand festival stages or intimate theaters, Church of Cash doesn’t just play Johnny Cash—they embody him.

“We don’t wear wigs. We don’t fake accents. We just honor the music—and we do it with fire.”
– Jay Ernest

For those who believe in the power of honest storytelling, hard-driving rhythms, and the unforgettable voice of Johnny Cash, welcome to the congregation.

This is the Church of Cash.

• Founded by Jay Ernest in Honolulu, Hawaii.
   
• Inspired by Johnny Cash’s timeless music and legacy.
   
• Church of Cash was created as a mission-driven tribute to honor the Man in Black with authenticity and reverence.
   

• Jay relocates to Minnesota, establishing the band’s Midwestern roots.
   
• The band starts touring regionally, building a loyal following through clubs, theaters, and festivals.
   
• Known for faithful interpretations of Cash’s catalog without gimmicks—no wigs, no fake accents, just music.
   

• Church of Cash expands nationally, performing at state fairs, performing arts centers, and large venues.
   
• Releases first live and studio recordings to showcase their live performance energy and musicianship.

• Church of Cash signs on with Hello Booking.
   

• Named “Best Tribute Band” by the Midwest Country Music Organization.
   
• Earns a reputation as the most authentic Johnny Cash tribute act in the U.S.
   

• Frontman Jay Ernest inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, recognizing his dedication to preserving Johnny Cash’s legacy.

• Named (again) "Best Tribute Band" by the Midwest Country Music Organization
   

• Co-creates and stars in Folsom Prison Experience, an immersive theatrical production recreating Johnny Cash’s 1968 concert at Folsom Prison.
   
• The show tours major theaters and becomes a critical and fan-favorite success.
   

• Tours Europe, expanding their congregation overseas.
   
• Continues performing over 100 shows per year across the U.S., including the Minnesota State Fair and high-profile festivals.
   

Church of Cash is a globally touring band with a passion for Johnny Cash’s music that continues to inspire new generations. With decades of road-tested experience and a loyal fan base, they remain at the forefront of tribute music, delivering unmatched performances with heart, grit, and reverence.