Aly & AJ are popular singers Alyson Renae Michalka and Amanda Joy Michalka, better known by the nicknames Aly and AJ. Alyson Michalka, born on March 25, 1989 is two years older (18 years) than her sister Amanda Michalka who was born on April 10, 1991(16 years). They were both born at Torrance, California and spent most of their childhood days in Seattle, Washington. In addition to being teen pop singers, they are also recognized as actresses, guitarists and song writers. Aly and Aj began to develop a strong passion for both music and acting from tender ages. Since they were raised as devout Christians, they could fulfill their passion by acting and singing in church productions. Alyson started playing the piano at the age of six and guitar at the age of thirteen. Her acting career started with her cast role as Keely Teslow in the Disney channel original series ? "Phil of the Future." From there on she acted in a handful of television films. She also covered a series of song performances along with her sister. Younger sister Amanda also learned to play a variety of music instruments including electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bongos and piano, all at a young age. She also made an appearance on a variety of television shows and song performances. Sisters Aly and AJ together wrote and recorded their first album "Aly & AJ" for Universal/Hollywood Records. The first performance the "Aly & AJ Concert" was held on July 24, 2005 in California at the Henry Fonda Theater in Hollywood. As part of their contract with Disney, Aly & Aj have released a variety of songs for many films. They also did several Walt Disney records projects such as compilations and soundtracks. Their biggest commercial hit in the US was their breakout single "Rush". Recently in 2006, Aly & Aj was nominated for Contemporary Inspirational Artist of the Year Music Awards. Their eagerly anticipated upcoming album, titled 'Insomniatic,' is scheduled to be released on July 10, 2007.