Creative collaborations do not often happen easily, nor do they always produce powerful songwriting unions.

But that was the case when A.J. Swearingen and Jayne Kelli met at Judy's Highway Cafe, Tequesta, Fla. The trendy venue brought together two songwriters of different ages, gender and styles who blended beautifully to create a folk-pop duo with undeniable chemistry.

Swearingen & Kelli perform 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, with opening act, Jonathan Beedle, Fowler Blast Furnace Room, ArtsQuest Center, SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, and 6 p.m. Jan. 19, with opening act, The Day Rubies, Mauch Chunk Opera House, 14 W. Broadway, Jim Thorpe.

Swearingen & Kelli released their self-titled album last month. The two have been touring together since 2012. Swearingen (pronounced Sware-in-jen) began singing harmony and playing slide guitar in Kelli's band in 2009.

"When we met, it was very natural, an authentic blend of music," says Swearingen. Kelli's voice, described as thick and silky, and Swearingen's own rich voice, harmonize beautifully.

"We are obsessive over our music, and picky about lyrics. We were fans of each other's work before we met," Swearingen says.

Kelli hails from an area of Michigan about one hour from the Canadian border. "I can't get rid of the accent," she says.

Swearingen, born and raised in Bethlehem, started playing in local bars when he was 18. He also spent five years in Nashville. The duo resides in the Tampa Bay area.

When asked how they would define their music style, Swearingen says, "Titles are so hard. I'd say we are folk-pop with elements of country, but not twangy. [We are] influenced by older country writers. Plus, we throw in a couple of waltzes, so there are surprises."

While speaking with Swearingen and Kelli, you get a sense of heartfelt respect between the two.

"She is a prolific writer," says Swearingen. "We complement one another so well."

He adds with a chuckle: "We don't really have to communicate. It's as if we are operating from one brain."

That type of music alliance is enviable and valuable. Their music has been described as remarkably intimate, with the husky-sweet crooning of songstress Kelli, and Swearingen's vocals gorgeously blended with acoustic guitar tunes of Americana and country music.

Kelli's music influences include Tori Amos, Fiona Apple and Radiohead, while Swearingen's influences include James Taylor, Cat Stevens and Gordon Lightfoot. That brings to fruition nearly all-original music by the duo, with an occasional Fleetwood Mac tune thrown into the mix.

When asked what the future holds for them, Swearingen says, "We want to get on ['Late Show with David] Letterman.' And we're touring and adding new dates weekly."