Ben Kolarcik

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Being born into a family of six kids helps you develop certain qualities.   One of those traits is the ability to articulate and be heard.   For Ben Kolarcik, not even the din of six kids could keep him from being heard when he had something important to say or as it turned out more often something important to sing.

"That's what I do, "Ben says.   "I love people.   I love listening to their stories and in turn sharing with them what I've experienced and what I've learned.   It's in these simple moments I can let people know, and to remind myself that "doing music" is much more than selling them a CD or t-shirt, or even furthering my own agendas.   It's about facilitating an encounter, an experience, between an individual and their Creator.   It's so much more than entertainment."

Ben's progressive pop/rock style goes beyond mere entertainment to what many describe as engaging and passionate.   His distinctive voice captivates his listeners with the depth of emotion expressed and showcases an enthusiasm for a myriad of musical forms.   As a 24 year old, Ben possesses a wealth of experience in leading people of all ages at worship events around the globe.

He began singing and leading worship as early as middle school.   Soon after graduating high school, Ben began pursuing a career in music from his hometown of Louisville, KY.   "It was about a year and a half of working full time, recording in the evenings, and doing the occasional gig on a weekend," Ben recalls, "that I started feeling a sense to go "full time" with my music.   It was a real turning point.   It's when I realized that I didn't need a record deal to do what I loved or what I felt called to do.   I just needed to do it.   That's when things started to get interesting."

After releasing an independent record in 2001, Ben began receiving numerous opportunities to perform and lead worship nationwide for various churches and camps.   Additionally, he took part in international mission trips and was invited to tour for three months in Australia and New Zealand.   In 2002, after performing at the Parachute Festival in New Zealand, Ben received a call from a record executive in Nashville requesting a meeting.   It was at this meeting that Ben was introduced to Justin Unger and after a couple month journey of writing and recording, the two ultimately came together to form ACROSS THE SKY.

In July 2003, they released their national debut on Word/Curb/Warner Bros. Records.   In three years this critically acclaimed duo performed all over the world, received a GMA Dove Award nomination, and toured alongside acts like Mark Schultz, MercyMe, and Michael W. Smith.

"At the end of last year, despite everything we had accomplished, we really felt the Lord leading us to close that season of our lives.   It was hard to admit, but it was the right time," Ben comments.   "Since then, I've really had the opportunity to focus on writing new songs, and getting back to my roots of leading worship."

As Ben and his wife, Melissa, expect their first child in late 2006, he describes his new vision with confidence and excitement.   "I have a desire to be a blessing to the Church and not a burden.   It's one thing to have a performance fee, show up, put on a concert and not pay much mind to the ministry of an event or a church.   It's another to partner with someone intent on Kingdom work that lasts beyond that one night.   That's what I want to be a part of.   I'm trusting the Lord will continue to allow me the chance to share this new music and my passion for pursuing a Holy, yet very accessible God."