Calm

Calm (Randyjw; May 26, 2019)

 

Like Saul to David,

calmed with tender, soothing tones

played on the kinnor.

 

 

These songs by Yehuda Katz have a rather collective, soothing effect:

 

Yehuda Katz – Bachatzi Halayla (Midnight Escape):

(https://youtu.be/u0UN_06tess?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

This next one is by Shlomo Katz:

Shlomo Katz- Od Yishama (There Will Be Heard) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/_DbMc-xbYOQ?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Woman of Wisdom and Valor (Eshet Chayil) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/nb73TalRKYw?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – B’Simchah Rabah (We’re So Happy) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/d30TDPPxs3A?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Calling Out to You (Elecha) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/cH_Vv9Sr9qc?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz V’hamagal –  Libi U’b’sari:

(https://youtu.be/wEQYpCcnmnE?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Loving Life (Mi Ha’Ish):

(https://youtu.be/geMyb2pImuM?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Reflecting Light (K’Gavnah):

(https://youtu.be/UWOz_gWJXP4?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – All Together (composed by Meir Banai, Yair Nitzani):

(https://youtu.be/b7X_ENnjvNw?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Purple Royalty (Shoshanah Ya’Akov):

(https://youtu.be/ygEvI8SrXgo?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

 

Yehuda Katz – Dancing in Mezeritch:

(https://youtu.be/qhooIOY71RY)

 

Yehuda Katz – Hand in Hand (Yamin V’Smol) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/5so_kNsFDlE)

 

Yehuda Katz – Nigun Lewis (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/7Yvh0Pgsgk4)

 

Yehuda Katz – You Are the Kind (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/YHAezU-oMhE)

 

Or:

https://newsnotes1.wordpress.com/2016/03/05/shema-yisrael/

 

 

Yom Hazikaron / Yom Ha’Atzma’ut (Repost)

 

Yom HaZikaron / Yom Ha’Atzma’ut (Randyjw; April 17, 2018)

(Reposted May 1, 2019)

Yom HaZikaron May 7-8, 2019

Yom Ha’Atzma’ut May 8-9, 2019

Soldiers, warriors, heroes, victims

mothers, fathers, siblings, children

departed, terrorism, so many gone, in memoriam

never forget, ever learned?

millions strong, remembering

Israel Stands Still

Israel Stands Still (Randyjw; Originally Posted: April 22, 2017)

Israel stands still

when the siren sounds across the land

recalling the fallen

the never again

You are not forgotten

but remembered again

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Siren of Rehovot, Israel (2012):

 

(https://youtu.be/M_Dc2D2va_A)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I Am poem – Anne Frank

by Natasha Hashemi and Claire Hawer

 

(https://youtu.be/2p-a_mCO_JA)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Eli Atah – Shlomo Gronich and the Sheba Choir

 

(https://youtu.be/CidvVpPMQQ8)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

In Happier Days (Randyjw; Originally Posted: April 23, 2017)

 

Through the slavery of Egypt;

through the auto-da-fe’s; the pogroms;

through the Inquisition; the Crusades;

and the exile of Babylon.

 

The destruction of our Temple

was more than the razing of a building;

it was the attempt to destroy through deicide

what they couldn’t destroy within.

 

The burning of our skin

in the synagogues

as they torched us alive in flames

worshipping false G-ds with idols

and blaspheming the Good L-rd’s name.

 

They eradicated us en masse in genocide

and overtook the Holy Land,

What they didn’t take, through Holocaust,

was that G-d would foil their plans.

 

G-d knows how to make it rain,

blessing, in its proper times.

As much as is done for the earth,

He has done, as well, for our minds.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Happy Rebirthday: Eternal, Israel

 

Happy Rebirthday: Eternal, Israel

(Randyjw; Originally Posted: 05/11/2016)

 

Eternal:

Yom HaZikaron

Remembrance Day (Memorial Day)

 

 

Israel:

Yom HaAtzma’ut

Independence Day

 

 

Yom Holedet!

Happy Rebirthday, Israel.

Always Eternal.

Eternally Yours,

 

HaTikvah (The Hope; a poem by Naftali Herz Imber; also it is the Israel National Anthem)

 

Kol od balayvav pnima nefesh Yehudi homiyah

Ul fatey Mizrach kadima

Ayin L’Tsion tsofiyah

Od lo avdah tikvatenu

HaTikvah shnot al payim

Liyot Am chofshi be’artzenu

B’Eretz Tzion V’rushalyim.

 

(HaTikvah “The Hope” translation from “My Jewish Learning”:)

As long as within our hearts

The Jewish soul sings,

As long as forward to the East

To Zion, looks the eye —

Our hope is not yet lost,

It is two thousand years old,

To be a free people in our land

The land of Zion and Jerusalem.

 

Hear The Israel National Anthem, HaTikvah, on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6Q4XL4oRIRE

 

See excerpts of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, proclaim the State of Israel, with HaTikvah in the background: https://youtu.be/XTSpfNoHpzU

 

 

Passover Songs And More 5779

 

Passover Songs And More 5779 (Randyjw; April 18, 2019)

 

 

Bachatzi Halayla (Midnight Escape) – Yehudah Katz

Published on Apr 2, 2012

(https://youtu.be/u0UN_06tess?list=PL5SpPWIeTwWNr_4EOsuabEG3-7YdmU4_S)

 

 

Od Yishama (There Will Be Heard) – Shlomo Katz

Published on Apr 23, 2012

(https://youtu.be/_DbMc-xbYOQ)

 

 

(Added April 24, 2019):

Mordechai Ben David – Kumzits 1 / Shiru LaMelech

Published on Oct 27, 2015

(https://youtu.be/nCbTQZNWpns)

 

 

All About Those Plagues – Chuck Green

Published on Mar 23, 2015

(https://youtu.be/biBGKDoolCk?list=PLKfigRKHaOCiC8FTF2ZQ16TrNohxpZg5o)

 

Passover Rhapsody – A Jewish Rock Opera – aish.com

Published on Mar 27, 2012

(https://youtu.be/BRWNrk7FxG4)

 

 

Avadim Hayinu (We Were Slaves) – Yuval Grumer

Published on Apr 16, 2019

(https://youtu.be/qg21q0koFJY)

 

 

Pessach Medley with Micha Gamerman (Official Animation Video) –

Published on Apr 5, 2017

(https://youtu.be/0VeH2DARmFE)

 

 

The Passover Seder Symbols Song – runsing

Published on Apr 7, 2008

(https://youtu.be/awl1KCo_oZ0?list=PLEF01FC549202E9E1)

 

 

JEWSIC PASSOVER MUSIC VIDEO – The Jewsicgroup

Published on Apr 12, 2011

(https://youtu.be/EWG4GGmw06E)

 

Ofir Ben Shitrit

 

Ofir Ben Shitrit (Randyjw; December 28, 2018)

 

Introducing Ofir Ben Shitrit to you (music performed and sung by female Jewish Orthodox person):

 

(https://youtu.be/EPQrWRrk26s)

 

 

Eli, Eli:

(https://youtu.be/QgEHWyQsi_k)

 

(https://youtu.be/1IR3CIhrkw0?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

 

Ofir Ben Shitrit – Im Ninalu:

(https://youtu.be/eY0wvCztlLA?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

 

 

(https://youtu.be/hSWqvnDSM7E?list=PLIEZHK9LRlqOKONrK37waNjOvOFCCOMc4)

 

(https://youtu.be/VXLpF9tLpVA?list=PLIEZHK9LRlqOKONrK37waNjOvOFCCOMc4)

 

(https://youtu.be/ZUmw–oRDig?list=PLIEZHK9LRlqOKONrK37waNjOvOFCCOMc4)

 

 

Sunny Songs To Remove The Chill

Sunny Songs To Remove The Chill (Randyjw; December 12, 2018):

 

59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy) – Simon and Garfunkel:

(https://youtu.be/bSzZXrf4AkY)

 

Black & White – Three Dog Night:

(https://youtu.be/nKQGV6v_JG0)

 

Here Comes The Sun – George Harrison (The Beatles):

(https://youtu.be/JNS_SUmCJm4)

 

Aquarius / Let The Sun Shine – The Fifth Dimension:

(https://youtu.be/kjxSCAalsBE)

 

Joy To The World – Three Dog Night:

(https://youtu.be/-2wutEzjy_E)

 

Seasons In The Sun – Terry Jacks:

(https://youtu.be/-tPcc1ftj8E)

 

Sunshine On My Shoulders – John Denver:

(https://youtu.be/6WYJcqi_n2o)

 

 

Sundown, March 30, 2018 – A Pictorial/Musical Pesach

Sundown, March 30, 2018 – A Pictorial/Musical Pesach (Randyjw; March 29, 2018):

 

 

 

Songs on the Passover theme (collected from previous postings):

 

 

Gad Elbaz – Mah Nishtanah:

 

(https://youtu.be/A1rH7rYuZQE)

 

 

Rae Antonoff – Mah Nishtanah (this is the version I sing, but a bit faster):

 

(https://youtu.be/V4oSJRvw0l8)

 

 

Dayenu / Hebrew, edited  (Urdu translation):

 

(https://youtu.be/fcqFGUh_4bg)

 

 

Avi Begun – Dayenu / Hebrew (this is a different song. It’s beautiful. It’s dedicated in the memories of four souls killed in the rampage of terror attacks in Toulouse, France):

(https://youtu.be/tqBeqA_gdxk)

 

 

Jesse Macht – A Different “Dayenu” (I really liked this guy):

(https://youtu.be/EvwxSsJryYU)

 

 

Pete Seeger – Dayenu:

(https://youtu.be/3FLE0nMulAI)

 

 

Chava Alberstein – Chad Gadya:

(https://youtu.be/DHdVYy5B6JM)

 

 

Chaim Parchi – Chad Gadya:

(https://youtu.be/WS9owtlUEe0)

 

 

Chad Gadya – Spanish and Moroccan:

(https://youtu.be/CVGnOqO9A8g)

 

 

Jay Levy – Chad Gadya (this is similar to the version I know):

(https://youtu.be/wnVE3pB_2Fc)

 

 

Eden Mi Qedem – Chad Gadya (Syrian Jewish, in Arabic):

(https://youtu.be/ed-nl2bQmC8)

 

 

Simcha Spot – Purple Chrein (Horseradish with Beets):

(https://youtu.be/AJZpfWE4TyY)

 

 

Ohad Naharin – Echad Mi Yodea (Amir Mizroch Compilation; Contains Nuclear, Jihadist, and War Scenes):

(https://youtu.be/tDio5eHks58)

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Share: Musical Passover

 

My Share: Musical Passover (Randyjw; April 11, 2017)

 

It’s my way to share Passover with you. Enjoy!

 

Gad Elbaz – Mah Nishtanah:

(https://youtu.be/A1rH7rYuZQE)

 

Rae Antonoff – Mah Nishtanah (this is the version I sing, but a bit faster):

(https://youtu.be/V4oSJRvw0l8)

 

Garrison Keillor / A Home Prairie Companion – A Sortof Zydeco Version of “Dayenu”:

(https://youtu.be/tFnCcZNY-Uo)

 

 

Dayenu / Hebrew, edited  (Urdu translation):

(https://youtu.be/fcqFGUh_4bg)

 

Avi Begun – Dayenu / Hebrew (this is a different song. It’s beautiful. It’s dedicated in the memories of four souls killed in the rampage of terror attacks in Toulouse, France):

(https://youtu.be/tqBeqA_gdxk)

 

Jesse Macht – A Different “Dayenu” (I really liked this guy):

(https://youtu.be/EvwxSsJryYU)

 

Pete Seeger – Dayenu:

(https://youtu.be/3FLE0nMulAI)

 

Chava Alberstein – Chad Gadya:

(https://youtu.be/DHdVYy5B6JM)

 

Chaim Parchi – Chad Gadya:

(https://youtu.be/WS9owtlUEe0)

 

Chad Gadya – Spanish and Moroccan:

(https://youtu.be/CVGnOqO9A8g)

 

Jay Levy – Chad Gadya (this is similar to the version I know):

(https://youtu.be/wnVE3pB_2Fc)

 

Eden Mi Qedem – Chad Gadya (Syrian Jewish, in Arabic):

(https://youtu.be/ed-nl2bQmC8)

 

Simcha Spot – Purple Chrein (Horseradish with Beets):

(https://youtu.be/AJZpfWE4TyY)

 

Ohad Naharin – Echad Mi Yodea (Amir Mizroch Compilation; Contains Nuclear, Jihadist, and War Scenes)

(https://youtu.be/tDio5eHks58)

 

Jerusalem’s Jewish Refugees (1948): Video

 

Jerusalem’s Jewish Refugees (1948): Video (Randyjw; January 4, 2017)

 

The truth of this story, which no-one wishes to hear, is that both eastward and westward of the Jordan River, the land was designated and recognized as the Jewish national home, based not on sufferance (i.e., as due to the Holocaust), but on historical fact. Land eastward of the river was subsequently ripped away from these parameters in two, separate severances, and was illegally awarded to the Arabs, in recompense for a slight to the disturbed pride of oversight to one, who did not receive a portion when the Middle East was reapportioned into its present configuration. Why any of the present Arab countries should have received their lands, when the Ottoman Empire had fought on the side which lost, is beyond me.

 

It probably has to do with the transferrence of Turkish power, which seats of previous rule had overseen the Islamic Caliphate, dallying during Byzantine times with Constantinople, its strategic location positioned between the divergence of Eastern Orthodox Christianity toward Europe in the West, the Fertile Crescent of the olden Mesopotamia to the East, and the Caucasian, Mongolian and Asiatic influences to the North and Northeast.

 

The sultanate of the Khans (the word being based in the same root from which the priestly classes of the Cohanim in Judaism is derived) was now being exchanged for the religious base from the lands which produced Islam, Saudi Arabia. With its language of Arabic, considered the pure language of the religion, and its two holy sites, Mecca and Medina, from where Mohammad was said to have begun his initial stirrings and to whose messages its inhabitants were hostile, and from where was found a finally receptive audience, as well as a massive slaughtering of his opponents, appeasement was provided to the Arab world, where no fathomable reason should have been its results — after all, they had been the enemy of the Western powers, choosing to join the axis of the sphere of fascism and communism, rather than the democratic one of modernism and republicanism.

 

Although Israel had joined the winning side and provided legions of their own fighting men (after considerable pleading and begging to be allowed to do so), their loyalty was awarded in the form of a paper tiger — a resolution acknowledging the Jewish rights to their land, yet the bit-by-bit dismantling of such righteous intentions by individual British lawmakers, soldiers and, sometimes, commissioners, who were determined that this enshrined reality, based in claims of law, would be subsequently sabotaged in individual acts of disobedience and contempt in the carrying out of its law. What resulted were the continued attacks of the Arabs upon the Jews, and a war of attrition waged by both the Arabs and a few of the soldiers of the Mandatory Authority, acting to limit, to restrict, and to even bar Jewish population growth within their homeland. This led to the subsequent severance, in two separate actions, of land to the east of the Jordan River, which was illegally ceded by the Mandatory powers and turned over to the Arabs to become, first, trans-Jordan (meaning, “across the Jordan”) and, later, being known simply as “Jordan”.  The reference of its name being derived in its meaning as being “across” from something, means that it refers to some other portion it was removed from, and it was too obvious that this association as the land of the Jews must be removed, and hence, the new entity called “Jordan” was born.

 

Devoid of Jews and independently declared by the Arabs, its state would become a launching area from which to continue a further war to attempt to take all the land, as well as an eventual political tool to use as a further weapon against Israel, and even its own people, by revoking Jordanian citizenship it had originally provided its area Arabs in order to admit Arabs to the land in the war against the Jews. Their 19-year minor incursion and occupation of Jerusalem’s Old City, and a few isolated enclaves, taken via Jordanian participation in a larger Arab war in which Arab states colluded in an attack on Israel in 1948, after Israel declared sovereignty from the Mandate in their state, was an illegal and aggressive attack.

 

Because of the illegality of its actions, no country (with one exception) recognized the ramifications of these acts. But the truth, six decades later, has been continuously overlooked and, through dogma and repetition, has become a propaganda-based lie upon which all subsequent rulings and decisions have been made. Forgotten in this scenario has been the countless Jewish refugees born of this situation, and the story of the exiling of the Jews from their land, in the continued course of history.

 

Let us hear from some of those who have been affected:

 

Video Clip (YouTube): “Jerusalem: The Media Myth of Two Cities”; sponsored by Joe Craven in honor of Jerusalem’s 1948 refugees; produced by: Remervision Video Productions; HonestingReporting.com:

(https://youtu.be/JXSvrAe5xEM)

 

See Mechon-Mamre.org (copyrighted) work. From Psalm 137, enjoining the Jewish people to hold Jerusalem above all joys, and to never forget her:

(http://www.mechon-mamre.org/e/et/et26d7.htm)

 

Based on Psalm 137, come poetry and song. See this beautiful adaptation, composed and sung by Yaakov Shwekey, based on this Psalm, in this video, here:

 

(Yaakov Shwekey) – Im Eshkechech Yerushalayim (If I Forget Thee, O Jerusalem)

(https://youtu.be/9Hl165XhSs8)

 

Update (August 22, 2018):

Here is a Jewish-written, interesting article about a Jordanian Arab, who recognizes the fact that the land of Jordan already IS the Arab state living beside the Jewish state (which was originally a part of so-called “Palestine”, and which should have been the Jewish home), and so can now be a home to the so-called area Arabs who departed Israel in 1948 (now termed “Palestinians”):

 

Belman, Ted. “King Abdullah will kill my family”: King Abdullah began threatening Zahran’s parents and brother in Jordan with torture and even death. They take these threats seriously and so does Zahran.” Arutz Sheva/israelnationalnews.org; August 14, 2018:

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/22623

 

A Breath of Fresh Air

 

A Breath of Fresh Air (Randyjw; December 2, 2016)

 

The earth is on fire, and we’re just beginning to see its flames finally extinguished after days-long blazes ravaged lands in Israel and in the state of Tennessee, within the United States. In some of the area’s worst fires, thousands have been evacuated from their homes, left devastated in the finality of finding their homes turned to rubble amongst the ash. It’s asked that you please help the victims of these devastations, in any ways that you can, to help them in their needs, so that they can rebuild their lives and homes, once again.

 

More than 80,000 people in Israel were evacuated, and many are facing homelessness. Where surveillance footage exists, we find that many instances of the numerous fires were started by Arab terrorists committing arson to burn the land of the Jewish home. Combined with world discriminatory actions against the Jews, such as: the European Union’s insistence upon labeling goods produced in Judea and Samaria; UNESCO, the recent cultural branch of the United Nations, transforming, with the swipe of a pen, Jewish Holy sites into Arab ones; and student campus associations, churches, and others worldwide engaging in unlawful discriminatory actions against Jews via calls for divestment/boycotts/sanctions against the Jewish State, known in parlance as “BDS”; all have been absorbed by the Jewish people with their lives and with tremendous sadness for the state of humanity in the present world.

 

Thankfully, there are many people who will fight to be our friends; we are so thankful. Visitors to Israel, to see the sites, to see the history, to share your FAITH, and your support, we thank you. Trade partners and investors, we thank you. Artists and performers, for being unafraid and for standing with Israel, we thank you. Some of these, as I’ve listed (and thanked) earlier, include Alicia Keys and Carlos Santana — two awesome musicians, and even this.

 

What would the soundtrack of your life sound like? Who would be on it, and why? While I haven’t ever expanded on that exercise, I have put together a few playlists in my lifetime. The ones on this site I’ve made include one with references to the word “Spain”, or “Spanish”; one of songs evoking a feeling of a cozy, local-area song venue in an era of 20’s/30’s-ish sounds; one by way of introduction to the sounds of Jewish life in Israel and in exile; and another from my favorite songs in the tapestry of my life in America, showing the eras through a cultural lens via the sounds they produced. All of these are for educational purposes to showcase a range of styles, cultures, eras, interpretational references and associations as envisioned by others, and more. Please use them for informational insight and exploration.

 

This last list, it’s songs and its eras, reveals a slice of life lived in the American dream over the past half century. It incorporates the music I heard growing up, with influences I associate with my parents’ own preferences, to the changing beats of classic rock, easy-listening, disco, rhythm and blues, and more.

 

One that most resembles the days I yearn for is the carefree sounds of the ’70’s. Growing up, I didn’t care much for most of the genre, but some of the bands and songs out of this time-frame really were exceptional. With time and exposure to the sounds, I have since become an aficionado of the era. One of the most representative bands of the music of these times is Air Supply. Their very popular songs were constantly heard over the airwaves, and formed many a dance-hall d.j.’s most-requested songtracks.

 

Better than that, Air Supply was scheduled to play a concert tour of several performances in Israel. Breaking BDS, these brave souls were all set to astound the newest young listeners in Israel, when the fires broke out during the midst of their performing schedule. Rather than leave many disappointed fans, they instead chose to give more, beyond their initial willingness to play to Israel’s audiences; they provided an additional 200 tickets to their concerts so that the wives of firefighters could attend an evening of song, and help to calm their worry.

 

You are a blessing, Air Supply. Thank you for that added breath of fresh air.

 

Hear the sound of fresh air in this sub-titled, compiled video from YouTube of one of Air Supply’s most-famous songs, “Lost In Love”. It is an example of the carefree sounds of the times in which it was made (and I wish they were still like, now). I, personally, love this song…

(https://youtu.be/3G4nyXNleq0)

 

To read the article, please see:

 

Jewish Press News Brief. “Air Supply Gives Away 200 Free Concert Tickets to Firemen’s Wives”; Jewish Press.com, November 27, 2016:

(http://www.jewishpress.com/news/breaking-news/air-supply-gives-away-200-concert-tickets-to-firemens-wives/2016/11/27/)

Randy’s Reviews – Randy’s Record Reviews: Putumayo Presents… African Odyssey

 

Randy’s Reviews – Randy’s Record Reviews: Putumayo Presents… African Odyssey (Randyjw; October 22, 2016)

 

Putumayo Presents… African Odyssey. (p) and © 2001 Putumayo World Music: 411 Lafayette, 4th Fl., New York, New York 10003 ph: (212) 625-1400; (www.putumayo.com). Barcode Reader: 790248019123; ISBN: 1587590476.

 

Another compilation disc of African music from around the region presented on an acoustic level with profundity and sophistication.

 

1. Manecas Costa – Fundu Di Matu  – Guinea-Bissau (5:30)

Portuguese-influenced song.

 

*2. Seydu – The Well – Sierra Leone (4:22)

Interesting; hard to peg; really nice. Soft, rambling xylophone and percussion, in a ’70’s, jazzy-ish style with scary punches of accent on the highs.

 

3. Les Go – Sou – Ivory Coast (3:12)

Plucky and monochromatic. Complex arrangements of overlaid vocals to simple music in offbeat rhythm.

 

*4. Oliver Mtukudzi – Raki – Zimbabwe (7:05)

Slow-moving reggae-ish sound. I like it; it grows on you, throughout, ’til you’re slo-mo bopping.

 

5. Augusto Cego – Mar – Cape Verde (5:15)

Ocean tide and Portuguese guitar in a ballad style.

 

*6. Bidinte – Kecu Minino Na Tchora – Guinea-Bissau (3:14)

I love this happy, little song with its bluesy start and scale-runs and “Junior” -like backup.

 

*7. Aura Msimang – Kulala – South Africa (4:34)

This is a really neat one with multiple influences presented in such a cool-sounding mix.

 

8. Adama Yalomba – Miri Yoro – Mali (8:24)

Steely strings and wah-wah synth combined with a low voice makes for some really weird and great stuff.

 

9. Doctor King’esi – Nipelaki Kwa Baba – Kenya (2:54)

Reminds me of some old, Israeli music.

 

10. Habib Koite’ – Sinama Denw – Mali (3:25)

Interesting notes put together in a unique minor-major way (puns always intended).

 

Starred standouts on this album include tracks: 2, 4, 6 and 7.

Chanteuse: Smoky Set for Jazz and Piano

 

Chanteuse: Smoky Set for Jazz and Piano (Randyjw; September 2, 2016)

 

1.. I’ll Never Smile Again – Jo Stafford

https://youtu.be/aZ8COLbG5wA

 

2.. Girl from Ipanema – Astrud Gilberto

https://youtu.be/giyzx-xeLko

 

3.. Downtown – Petula Clark

(https://youtu.be/zGc2U4NE87o)

 

4.. By the Time I Get to Phoenix – Glenn Campbell

https://youtu.be/0NeHeNZkH7k

 

5.. If I Had a Hammer – Peter, Paul and Mary

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKgm9ARmOMM&list=RDAKgm9ARmOMM

 

6.. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes – Engelbert Humperdinck

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J35KrD0t_VU&list=RDJ35KrD0t_VU

 

7.. Leaving On a Jet Plane – Peter, Paul and Mary

https://youtu.be/F9pbDeUmpnwe

 

8.. Ebb Tide – Arthur Prysock

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6w58QvLn1M&list=RDI6w58QvLn1M

 

9.. The Windmills of Your Mind – Neil Diamond

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEDtJrhAkF0&list=RDdEDtJrhAkF0

 

10.. Sunny – Bobby Hebb

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILEXei9rfhw&list=RDILEXei9rfhw

 

11.. La Vie en Rose – Foxtails Brigade

https://youtu.be/-NK9zdPj-os

 

12.. Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

https://youtu.be/YuKfiH0Scao

 

13.. Golden Earrings – Peggy Lee

https://youtu.be/qWnVg5eidq8

 

14.. Autumn Leaves – Frank Sinatra

https://youtu.be/zWmLw1dZSWc

 

15.. Didn’t We? – Glenn Campbell

https://youtu.be/7u4G50iBkK0

 

16.. Meditation – Foxtails Brigade

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-zEidLuKYk&list=RD0-zEidLuKYk

 

17.. Les Feuilles Mortes – Yves Montand

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo1C6E7jbPw&list=RDXo1C6E7jbPw

 

18.. Qualche Stupido Ti Amo (Italian) – Andrea Bocelli and Veronica Berti

(https://youtu.be/C6SmJrY3ajQ)

 

 

Or:

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You (English) – Frank and Nancy Sinatra

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meQUdezfMhk&list=RDmeQUdezfMhk

 

19.. The Very Thought of You – Engelbert Humperdinck

(https://youtu.be/kZObg76lHjg)

 

20.. Senza Fine – Peggy Lee

https://youtu.be/7GzEGMJnOfw

 

21.. Those Were the Days – Mary Hopkin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUsmEcJSdzc&list=RDZUsmEcJSdzc

 

❤

 

Lazer Focus

 

Lazer Focus (Randyjw; April 30, 2016)

 

We often find our highest forms of expression in music. Bridging language barriers, it spans the divide to reach into our souls and to bring forward our humanity.

 

For years, music lyrics were often the first means used to broadcast the cultural mores represented within our society — the ones which our youths would most often like to see changed!

 

So, “message music” became a popular way to start a popular movement of the masses in protest of the ways society was presently operating. Folk music of the 1960’s and 1970’s expressed a subset of society’s displeasure of our war efforts in VietNam and toward authority, in general. Because radio reached a broad audience, the influence of mass communication became palpable, though often overstated (Many people still don’t realize that the “loud” voice that the mass media displays neither makes it, necessarily, the popular, nor the majority, opinion).

 

In any case, the modes and methods of the message delivery system may have changed, but the basic precept is still there, and always will be. People need to be heard. They need to feel that they are important, and that their opinions matter. They are the clarion call to wake us up to our mistakes and to correct our actions, before it becomes too late.

 

One such man, with important things to say, is Lazer Lloyd. He is a blues musician with a prescient message, no matter where you stand on the political spectrum. His latest release, “America”, puts together all the shortfalls we could express about this great nation, while still acknowledging that this is a good land, overall. The beauty in the fretwork, and the wording of the sentiments, express what I would’ve also brought up in past wrongs America has committed. On a personal level, to those we’ve hurt, or to those I might have hurt, as well, I would add, “I’m sorry”. This song was touching and I have to admit that I cried while listening to it. Please visit YouTube and click the black arrow in the white portion of the YouTube song identification area to see the lyrics while viewing the song video.

 

“The Bomb Shelter Blues” addresses the realities of being expected to live under the insane conditions imposed upon us in Israel, while others who have the power to stop and change this warring against us hypocritically do nothing and, instead, condemn those upon whom the bombs and rockets fall. I particularly like the message revealed when you click the black YouTube arrow at YouTube.

 

Giving away the surprise, “Back Porch” feels like a really great Indian-style instrumental piece, but simple lyrics about serving G-d find their way between the meditational meanderings of the acoustic arrangement. I really like this piece.

 

“Eye of the Storm” is a really good “L-rd Have Mercy” plaint, plain and simple. Hear the sample, below.

 

“New Year’s Blues (Tears For Dikla)” is a really mellow, really wonderful blues tune to chill out to. I think you’ll enjoy it. It’s on YouTube, for those who don’t have Facebook.

 

Here social justice in action via the Jewish voice (our concept of repairing the world, in Hebrew, called “tikkun olam” and via righteous works, called “tzedakah”, or “charity”, is prevalent as a precept in our traditions). Here a sampling of this in a YouTube link to Lazer Lloyd’s “Eye of the Storm”:

 

Eye of the Storm:

(https://youtu.be/CGlODsUCioU)

 

“Lazer Lloyd”, the album by Lazer Lloyd, was the Number Three Blues-Rock Album of 2015 (RMR). He also had the number two Blues-Rock song and the number six Blues-Rock song for the year, as well. His song, “New Years Blues (Tears For Dikla)” received over 3.1 million views on Facebook, was shared more than 33,000 times, and generated more than 14,000 comments.

 

Lazer Lloyd is now on tour. See his official website to verify dates, times, locations, updates and additions to the touring schedule – Go to: (http://lazerlloyd.com/)

 

Pennsylvania:

Erie – 04/30/2016 – Erie Harley/9:30

New York:

Buffalo – 05/01/2016 – DHU Strand Theater/7:30

Ohio:

New Lima – 05/02/2016 – RSVP for Location/6:00

Columbus – 06/01/2016 – Woodlands Tavern/7:30

Illinois:

Decatur – 05/22/2016 – Pop’s Place/3:00 – 6:00

Springfield – 05/23/2016 – Alamo/8:00

Kankakee – 05/24/2016 – Moose Hall/8:00

Chicago – 05/26/2016 – Buddy Guy’s Legends/9:00

Berwyn – 05/29/2016 – Fitzgerald’s/9:00

Indiana:

Griffith – 05/25/2016 – Wildrose Brewing Co./7:00

Wisconsin:

Silver Lake – 05/28/2016 – Benders/9:45

Michigan:

Petoskey – 05/30/2016 – Crooked Tree

Arts/6:00

Grand Rapids – 05/31/2016 – Open Source Studios/7:30

Indiana:

Indianapolis – 06/02/2016 – Slippery Noodle/8:30

Missouri:

St. Louis – 06/04/2016 – Beale on Broadway/10:30

Bela Fleck: Throw Down Your Heart: Tales From The Acoustic Planet, Vol. 3 – Africa Sessions (CD)

 

Bela Fleck: Throw Down Your Heart: Tales From The Acoustic Planet, Vol. 3 – Africa Sessions (CD)

2009; Produced by Bela Fleck Productions Inc. Under exclusive license to Rounder Records. (http://www.rounder.com/); info@rounder.com

 

1. Tulinesangala – Uganda (2:50)

Nakisenyi Women’s Group

Chanting, clapping

 

2. Kinetsa – Madagascar (4:16)

D’Gary

Really cool. Appalachian banjo-like sounds. Reminiscent of a familiar song I can’t figure out. Violin.

 

3. Ah Ndiya – Mali (3:49)

Oumou Sangore

Bluesy start, progressing into Chinese/Arabic/funk-like stuff. Cutting woman’s voice.

 

4. Kabibi – Tanzania (2:30)

Anania Ngoglia

Woah… crazy-jazziness sounding like Elmo — No, not St. Elmo’s fire, but Elmo from Sesame Street! With xylophone-like accompaniment providing Caribbean island sounds and vocal runs up and down the scales (even they laugh at the end).

 

5. Angelina – Uganda (2:51)

Luo Cultural Association

Rambling safari-like trek with interplaying percussionist pluckings running around in the background. High-pitched ululations sound like human mosquitoes!

 

6. D’Gary Jam – Madagascar, Uganda, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Cameroon (6:15)

D’Gary, Oumou Sangare, Richatd Bona, Baba Maal, Vusi Mahlasela, Afel Bocum, Anania Ngoglia, Toumani Diabate and Friends

I figured I’d find Toumani Diabate on this compilation… I was indeed actively searching for another great production from him. This one is like a nightmare, but intriguing. You can’t stop listening, even though everyone is going off in their own directions, doing their own things. Strangely, it all blends together in a scary, compelling way.

 

7. Throw Down Your Heart – Mali (5:07)

Haruna Sumake Trio and Bassekou Kouyate

This soft instrumental sounds more like an Ali Farka Toure/Toumani Diabate collaboration, the kind I was hoping to find. Also Jethro Tull tune toward the end.

 

8. Thula Mama – South Africa (3:59)

Vusi Mahlasela

A little bit of bebop in an African vibe with English subtitles.

 

9. Wairenziante – Uganda (2:55)

Muwewesu Xylophone Group

Having once or twice picked up a pair of mallets, I can appreciate the xylophone/marimba dexterity exhibited here.

 

10. Bunibalal – Mali (4:32)

Afel Bocum

A standout of a song. Soft male voice, Japanese/Arabic intro, Irish-tinged, totally African.

 

11. Zawose – Tanzania (3:20)

Chibite – The Zawose Family

How can people make such sounds? And offbeat, too? By true musicianship and artistry. This one’s a trip.

 

12. Ajula/Mbamba – The Gambia (4:31)

The Jatta Family

Quick tempo, probably what many Western minds would automatically associate to African music.

 

13. Pakugyenda Balebauo – Tanzania (2:58)

Warema Masiaga Cha Cha

E.T. went to Africa, instead. Neat question-answer format with kazoo/didgeridoo loose-stringed backup.

 

14. Jesus Is The Only Answer – Uganda (3:24)

Ateso Jazz Band

I love this one so much. So happy and uplifting. Upper register music and vocals. You’ll be smiling with this one!

 

15. Matitu – Tanzania (4:19)

Khalifan Matitu

Xylophone only, building up with background stuff sounding like a rainfall in a dense, tropical forest.

 

16. Mariam – Mali (3:51)

Djelimady Tounkara

I don’t know if I know what this song wants to be. It just is what it is — Ole’!

 

17. Djorolen – Mali (5:04)

Oumou Sangare

Delta meets Asio-Africa in rather soulful ballad. Love it.

 

18. Dunia Haina Wema/Thumb Fun – Tanzania (7:13)

Anania Ngoglia

Find myself not sure if I like it, yet enthusiastically starring it, just as well. Obvious mastery of the musical instruments, as well as the vocal chords echoing additional instruments. Sounds like you’re privileged to listen in on a jam going on.

 

———————————————————————–

 

This album started as an idea, when Bela Fleck heard the sounds of African music coming from the computer of his musicians on the tour bus. Enjoying what he heard, he decided to investigate the origins of his preferred instrument, the banjo, in West Africa, engaging Sony to underwrite the affair. After the tickets were booked, the field engineers reserved, the details and logistics arranged… Sony backed out.

 

So much had already been riding on this venture. With everything in place, Bela couldn’t let everyone down. Not only is he a folk hero in pioneering banjo music and styles, he turned folk hero in helping his fellow musicians continue with the job for this project. He hired his half-brother, Sascha Palladino, putting the venture to visuals in a documentary release now available through Netflix, or via purchase at New Video, a part of Cinedigm Entertainment:

 

(http://www.newvideo.com/)

DVD Cat: NNVG158461

DVD UPC: 7-67685-15846-3

SRP: $26.95

DIGITAL CAT: NNVG1839

 

The album won two 2009 Grammy® awards for Best Contemporary World Music Album and Best Pop Instrumental Album. Standout tracks on this African collaboration include numbers 10, 14 and 17, as well as number 18.

 

He’s now on tour in North America, with the following states and dates – For more details and to purchase tickets, visit his friendly website at: (http://belafleck.com/shows/)

 

INDIVIDUAL VENUES:

with Louisville Symphony Orchestra: KY – 04/30/2016

with The Flecktones: IL, MO, NC, NH, OH, PA, VT – June

with Abigail Washburn: AK – May; UT, CO – July

 

FESTIVALS:

Colorado:

Telluride Bluegrass Festival with The Flecktones – 06/16/2016

Telluride Bluegrass Festival All-Star Jam – 06/19/2016

Rocky Grass Festival with Abigail Washburn – 07/30/2016

District of Columbia:

American Acoustic with Chris Thile – 06/24/2016

North Carolina:

Brevard Music Festival – 06/28/2016

Wisconsin:

Blue Ox Music Festival with The Flecktones – 06/11/2016

Yiddish Folksongs: Orchestra of the Jewish Theatre Bucharest (CD)

 

Yiddish Folksongs: Orchestra of the Jewish Theatre Bucharest (CD)

 

Conductor: Chajim Schwartzmann; International Passport; Laserlight Digital 15 185. (p) 1990 Delta Music Inc., Los Angeles, CA, 90064. © 2002 Delta Entertainment Corporation; 1663 Sawtelle Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90025. Laserlight Digital is a registered trademark of Delta Entertainment Corporation. According to Wikipedia.org (accessed April 11, 2016), the company filed for a reorganization under Chapter 11, and decided by mid-2008 upon liquidation, including the sale of 170 music licenses. The dust jacket website for Delta Entertainment didn’t come up in my search, but, instead, I found this very interesting website from the digital library at the University of Pennsylvania, listing extensive notes corresponding to the album and CD, including transliterations of the Yiddish, and other unique information:

(http://digital.library.upenn.edu/webbin/freedman/lookupalbum?catlg=B-051(a))

 

Wow, does this take one to another era. It’s a good thing, too, because nobody’s culture should be systematically eliminated, as the Germans tried to do to the Jews by barring their participation in the arts in Germany during various phases in their history, but especially during the Nazi regime, leading to the murder of six million Jews.

 

Each song represents the European settlement period following our expulsion from Spain, ordered by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in 1492. Heading East across Europe, we settled mainly in the areas of Germany and Poland (Russia would do the same, transferring us to a slim area of its territory called the Pale of Settlement, essentially the first Jewish ghetto).

 

Generally blessed with a sardonic sense of humor and optimism, we infused our song during this period with appropriate emotion reflective of our inner drive to rise above our situations. And yes, despite the worst, we have.

 

1. A Ngindl (2:49) – female
2. Gei ich mir spazim (1:48) – female
3. Leig ich mir mein kepale (3:05) – female
4. Iamce ram ciam (1:35) – man / Really good
5. Di Mame is gegangn (2:27) – female
6. Inter a klein Beimale – male
7. Di Warnicikes – female / I hear something about “schmaltz” (fat) in this
8. Ein mul ti ich si banaien (2:42) – male
9. Lomir singen ciri bim, ciri bom (2:43) – male and female
10. Wus dergeisti mir di lurn (3:22) – male and female
11. Oi Awram (1:16) – female
12. Di Mame kocht Warenikes (1:43) – male
13. Mamaniu, liubeniu (3:53) – female / The best “Oy!” at the end
14. Mit a Nudl un a Nudl (2:17) – male
15. Asoj wie-s is bitter (2:40) – female
16. Bin ich mir a Schneiderl (1:25) – male / Good representation of humor and emotion, like Italian
17. Meheteineste meine (2:29) – female
18. Wus-je wilsti? (2:13) – male and female

 

Singers:

1, 7: Rochele Schapira

2, 3, 5: Nuscha Grupp-Stoian

11, 13, 17: Leonie Waldmann-Eliad

4, 14: Dorian Livianu

6, 9, 10, 18: Bebe Bercovici

8, 12, 16: Carol Marcovici

9, 10, 15, 18: Trici Abramovici

 

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: Dust to Gold (CD)

 

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: Dust to Gold (CD)

 

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan & Party (p) © 2000 Real World Records Ltd. Licensed exclusively to, and manufactured and distributed by: Narada Productions Inc., 4650 N. Port Washington Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53212. All tracks published by Womad Music Ltd./EMI Virgin Music Ltd. The dust jacket website reference doesn’t fully connect, so please see Real World Records for info: (https://realworldrecords.com/artist/458/nusrat-fateh-ali-khan/)

 

The liner notes say that Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s hometown was Lahore, Pakistan. It becomes complicated, as much like Israel (known then as “Palestine”) had been partitioned to carve an Arab state from its midsts (known as “Jordan”), so, too, had India been partitioned to carve a Muslim state from its midsts, known as Pakistan (not to mention that India had first fallen under Colonial occupation and rule by the British). According to Wikipedia.org (accessed April 10, 2016 and applicable to the rest of this information): (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nusrat_Fateh_Ali_Khan), the ancestral Khan household was situated, prior to Partition, at Basti Sheikh, in the city of Jalandhar, East Punjab, British India (now in Punjab, India).

 

Ali-Khan was born, after Partition, on October 13, 1948, and grew up, then, in central Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan, finding early affinity in the family tradition of Sufi devotional music, known as Qawwali. He ascended to leadership of his family Qawwali party upon the deaths of his father, and afterwards, also, an Uncle, and gave his first public performance, via a studio broadcast recording, during the annual music festival known as Jashn-e-Baharan, arranged by Radio Pakistan.

 

He only lived to age 48, expiring of a heart attack in London, England on August 17, 1997, awaiting a kidney transplant, due to renal failure.

 

His music has garnered multi-national awards, and he is known as a pioneering force in world music. He partners with Ofra Haza in the song “Forgiveness”. While I can only recall his utterance in this mostly instrumental song as a singular one, it is, nevertheless, a good one. Both he and Ofra solely, and soulfully, wail, using their voices non-lyrically as instruments.

 

I had not, yet, discovered his rendering in “Forgiveness” prior to hearing this “Dust to Gold” CD, and so my opinions were proferred as a neophyte to his music. Had it been the reverse, perhaps I would have heard him in a more-flattering context; as it were, I did not. Frankly, I feel that this music is a fail. Much as the failed process of alchemy whereby the synthesization of precious metals, like gold, is attempted to be created through dust or other materials, the synthesization from “Dust to Gold” in this music, simply put, doesn’t work.

 

1. Khawaja Tum Hi Ho (Master It Is Only You) (Rajasthani Hindi) 15:44 – The inside jacket explains that this song, sung in a female persona in the classical style, praises a Sufi saint. I find it an annoying semblance of a screaming, dying cat.
2. DATA Teira Durbur (Master In Your Court) (Urdu) 16:21 – This song also praises a Sufi saint, and may be even more annoying than the first. Oy!
3. Koi Hai Na Ho Ga (There Was No-One, There Will Not Be Anyone) (Urdu) 15:08 – Apparently not. This song praises the Islamic “Prophet”, and has a more familiar tune. Interestingly, it mentions Aksa mosque (Jerusalem), but makes no mention of the Dome of the Rock (Al-Aksa is the small, silver mosque on the Temple Mount; the Dome of the Rock, the familiar representation of Islam in Israel, is not actually a mosque).
4. Noor-E Khuda Hai Husn-E-Sarapa Rasool (The Light of G-d is the Embodiment of the [Islamic] “Prophet”) (Urdu) 17:09 – Praises the Islamic “Prophet”. Also more familiar; almost hypnotic.

Harry Belafonte, Miriam Makeba, and Chubby Checker Sing Jewish/Jewish-Themed Songs

 

I have one post dedicated to Jewish/Israeli song artists called “Shema Yisrael”, and another dedicated to the familiar songs of my youth and upbringing here in America, called “American Culture In Music”.  “American Culture In Music” contains many songs in many languages, reflecting the diversity and melting pot which is America. Jewish songs were a part of my youth, but did not receive as broad a recognition in American culture as the rest of the type of songs represented “American Culture In Music”.

 

It is interesting to see how individual cultures adapt to their newfound societies, combining their old traditions with the new. It is an educational experience to look at a review, from the future, back to the past, to see how it’s developed, integrated, and been influenced by the melding of different cultures within societies. While many people can probably sing “Havah Nagilah” and many of the tunes written for the film adaptation of Shalom Aleichem’s novel based on the reality of life for the Jews during Russian pogroms against them, via the popular movie musical, “Fiddler On The Roof” (for which I played the part of ‘Hodel’ in a grade school musical presentation), other artists’ renditions of some of these songs deserve a posting set aside and apart from both these lists for the special classifications or designations into which these fall. Two such are those by Harry Belafonte, Miriam Makeba, and Chubby Checker. It shows a blending of cultures in the performances of one through the songs and representative styles of the other.

 

Here they are singing one of my newest favorite songs, ‘Erev Shel Shoshanim’, and several renditions (live and on studio albums) captured via film and video, or pressed into vinyl, of Harry Belafonte’s versions of: “Havah Nagilah” and “Hineh Mah Tov”. I hope you enjoy their versions of these Jewish songs, and this informational, educational look at cultures of American society through song:

 

Erev Shel Shoshanim:

Harry Belafonte:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5nYc26rEGo&list=RDc5nYc26rEGo)

 

Erev Shel Shoshanim:

Miriam Makeba:

(https://youtu.be/gP0OuRVzpw0)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Hineh Mah Tov (1960; Concert: England):

(https://youtu.be/RCzUWap9rm0)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Hineh Mah Tov (Album: Return to Carnegie Hall):

(https://youtu.be/LwLtzxkgfV0)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Noah:

(https://youtu.be/1dG7QI3L5tI)

 

Chubby Checker [Added September 28, 2019]:

Havah Nagilah

(https://youtu.be/McKBRGeU1hM?list=PLzb6Bc1k2vUaebYV9sDxE_TBKl2sAWF7U)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Havah Nagilah (Album: At Carnegie Hall: The Complete Concert):

(https://youtu.be/KTCmKmofaKA)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Havah Nagilah (Harry Belafonte From Jamaica: Calypso):

(https://youtu.be/kVxAb97XyZM)

 

Harry Belafonte:

Havah Nagilah (TV: The Danny Kaye Show; with Danny Kaye):

(https://youtu.be/t_L1RAVm4js)

 

Shema Yisrael

Created: Approximately November 24, 2015

Re-posted: March 5, 2016; Continual updates.

Shema, Yisrael are the opening words to one of the most meaningful, and probably one of the most well-known, prayers in Jewish precepts. The English translation of the Hebrew renders “Hear, O Israel”.

Following is an introduction to some wonderful Jewish and/or Israeli artists for you to Hear Israel for yourself. I hope this will open up a new world of the Middle East to you, with the ancient sounds of our various traditions, lands of our dispersion, modern interpretations, and others, as no other education could possibly inform you better than via our cultural heritage and language as expressed through performance. I hope it will give you an enhanced appreciation of Israel and her people through music appreciation, as well as showing you via other avenues. Please enjoy!

Music:

Ofra Haza: Ofra’s beautiful voice transcends cultures and ages in pure and timeless wonder. Find her music on: Youtube – Some great songs include: Neshikot BaYam; Im Ninalu; Shecharchoret; Yerushala’im Shel Zahav.

Ofra Haza – Im Ninalu (later version):

(https://youtu.be/ZRnzTTYk7_Q)

Ofra Haza – Yerushala’im Shel Zahav:

(https://youtu.be/YBNV8L7qjGE)

Here’s a nice, rhyming transliteration of Yerushala’im Shel Zahav:

(http://www.hebrewsongs.com/song-yerushalayimshelzahav.htm)

Ofra Haza – Im Ninalu (earlier version):

(https://youtu.be/O2xNTzlFSk0)

Ofra Haza – Shecharchoret:

(https://youtu.be/s0BL6jD56BE)

Ofra Haza – Neshikot BaYam (static-y intro):

(https://youtu.be/HHQxyxQQPio)

Ofra Haza – Mi Li Yiten:

(https://youtu.be/cWELOuqzwY4)

Ofra Haza – Forgiveness:

(https://youtu.be/NfcRY3g9Y2c)

Ofra Haza – I Want to Fly:

(https://youtu.be/xKdAJ8LqoN0)

Ofra Haza – Kaddish (Montreux Jazz Festival):

(http://youtu.be/5hQ0OkcLKuE)

Ofra Haza – Eli, Eli:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFcXeGtDg7w&list=RDlFcXeGtDg7w)

Ofra Haza – Ha’Kotel (The Wailing Wall):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCPfa86whTQ&list=RDTCPfa86whTQ)

Ofra Haza – Adamah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjPq9Bupipg&list=RDUjPq9Bupipg)

Ofra Haza – Kol Ha’Neshama:

(https://youtu.be/uNORpY9uxPw)

Ofra Haza – Shir Ha’Frecha:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUAvhOvIsG4&list=RDkUAvhOvIsG4)

Ofra Haza – Love Letter:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KoZ0rcY4EE&list=RD8KoZ0rcY4EE)

Ofra Haza – Chai (1983 Eurovision song contest):

(https://youtu.be/Pc54OKvroEY)

Ofra Haza – Sof Kaitz (Summer’s End):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBPz4NXRarw&list=RDJBPz4NXRarw)

Ofra Haza – Laila b’Kna’an:

(https://youtu.be/xg5iDdznijg)

Ofra Haza – Hatzrif HaKatan:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKkVo5wFRqI&list=RDJKkVo5wFRqI)

Ofra Haza – Yad Anugah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROoBR_WPxbg&list=RDROoBR_WPxbg)

Ofra Haza – (can’t read this; Arabic; ‘avi’):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTOtwp6iGOk&list=RDnTOtwp6iGOk)

Ofra Haza – A’salk (Montreux Jazz Festival):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asCLOFYNMj8&list=asCLOFYNMj8)

Ofra Haza – Shaddai (Montreux Jazz Festival):

(https://www.youtu.be/xrWBqxm4eS0)

Ofra Haza – Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh:

(https://youtu.be/FB9_nVfNSsU)

Ofra Haza – Ya Ba Ye

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAY5Q5sxPDg&list=RDhAY5Q5sxPDg)

Ofra Haza – You:

(https://youtu.be/GPq6eGCXXP8)

Ofir Ben Shitrit: A sweet and beautiful voice. Find her music on: YouTube. Some wonderful songs include: Kiryah Yefeyfiyah, Im Ninalu, and more.

Ofir Ben Shitrit – Kiryah Yefeyfiyah:

(https://youtu.be/EPQrWRrk26s)

Ofir Ben Shitrit –

(https://youtu.be/1IR3CIhrkw0?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

Ofir Ben Shitrit – (an excerpt on The Voice/Israel):

(https://youtu.be/Rqr_WfbemWk)

Ofir Ben Shitrit – Im Ninalu:

(https://youtu.be/eY0wvCztlLA?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

Ofir Ben Shitrit – My Favorite Things (Hebrew):

(https://youtu.be/KluKxSQugOY?list=RD1IR3CIhrkw0)

Ofir Ben Shitrit – HaKayitz Ha’Acharon:

(https://youtu.be/r1IjRa2uNr4?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

Ofir Ben Shitrit, Aviv Geffen and More – Kutzim:

(https://youtu.be/cxZ71G-3pZI?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

Ofir Ben Shitrit – Katonti:

(https://youtu.be/0Tzkscx_MpQ?list=PLC2Ejqlmbo1_KHSbkw5iN5LEL9pnZa2Kg)

Anna Spitz: Find her music on Youtube. She reminds me of Kate Bush.

Anna Spitz –

(https://youtu.be/LD-_Qos-k-Q)

(https://youtu.be/mUQVs-d64tE)

(https://youtu.be/pPShYoaBwCs)

(https://youtu.be/ACbk4wi3Jgo)

(https://youtu.be/Y2TuEhzIUc8)

Reeva Nepon – This particular video, found on Youtube (Kids) is an Ofra Haza-inspired medley of her songs.

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BBZG2g-j10)

Shlomo Gronich: Musical collaborations with many groups — but, I love his one with the Sheba Choir. Find his music on Youtube. Great songs include: Eli Attah (a prayer); Adon Olan (a prayer); and Ha-Masa (The Journey).

Shlomo Gronich and the Sheba Choir – Eli Attah:

(https://youtu.be/gw7dm4RJMFY)

Shlomo Gronich and the Sheba Choir – Adon Olam:

(https://youtu.be/uGSJG0IEKn8)

Shlomo Gronich and the Sheba Choir – Ha – Masa (The Journey):

(https://youtu.be/rlV9agzNOek)

Dikla Hacmon: Find her music on places including Youtube. Great songs include: Ana Bachoach; Nishba; Harei et Mekudeshet Li; and Va’Eem Tavo’ee Elay.

Dikla Hacmon – Ana Bachoach:

(https://youtu.be/w0BhBqu-DTw)

Dikla Hacmon – Nishba:

(https://youtu.be/Vuul2eNeq2U)

Dikla Hacmon – Harei et Mekudeshet Li:

(https://youtu.be/J66EwlHN-ZQ)

Dikla Hacmon – Va’Eem Tavo’ee Elay:

(https://youtu.be/-FggloZz32A)

Nana Mouskouri: Internationally acclaimed, unique styling, and diverse range of genres have set Nana Mouskouri as a fan favorite. Find her music on Youtube. Able to sing in multiple languages, some of her best include, with Mike Brant: Erev Shel Shoshanim.

Nana Mouskouri – Erev Shel Shoshanim:

(https://youtu.be/eFvrMAjVrIA)

Reb Shlomo Carlebach: Music on YouTube.

Reb Shlomo Carlebach – Kol Nidrei:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFxv_gI70ZU)

Esther Ofarim: Find her music on Youtube. Great songs include: A Taste of Honey; Le Vent et La Jeunesse (French).

Esther Ofarim – A Taste of Honey:

(https://youtu.be/MZj_oeqFlJ8)

Esther Ofarim – Le Vent Et La Jeunesse (French):

(https://youtu.be/qrLzcoBxn0g)

Yasmin Levy: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: Nacio En El Amo; Adio Querida; Firuze; Mal de l’Amor; Una Hora En La Ventana.

Yasmin Levy – Naci En El Amo:

(https://youtu.be/619GY-vS8A0)

Yasmin Levy – Irme Kero:

(https://youtu.be/4kFhqS1yMuI?list=PLBC07D7D5B368C34F)

Yasmin Levy – Ven Kerida Ven Amada:

(https://youtu.be/7C7o7AKWIf0?list=PLBC07D7D5B368C34F)

Yasmin Levy – Keter (Crown):

(https://youtu.be/Nghtf_VP-tE?list=PLBC07D7D5B368C34F)

Yasmin Levy – Adio Querida:

(https://youtu.be/DdcusOXh_f8)

Yasmin Levy – Firuze:

(https://youtu.be/1swgg7D0MaI)

Yasmin Levy – Mal de l’Amor:

(https://youtu.be/FIAv19v6kLw)

Yasmin Levy – Una Hora En La Ventana:

(https://youtu.be/sygnx_yvYqc)

Yasmin Levy and Amir Shahsar – Niña de las Flores:

(https://youtu.be/OvFzLhYtsAc?list=PLBC07D7D5B368C34F)

Yasmin Levy – Madre…

(https://youtu.be/XQvqxrRkw_s?list=PL0LL6dQu5PUD5D7f5pyoCEsmfIEINbr-H)

Yasmin Levy – Porque:

(https://youtu.be/UfaEYs9QAR4)

Yasminb Levy – Sho’ef K’mo Eved:

(https://youtu.be/mD2WeWXZdb4?list=PL0LL6dQu5PUD5D7f5pyoCEsmfIEINbr-H)

Yasmin Levy – La Allegria:

(https://youtu.be/Ry1YjNYu6YY)Yasmin Levy – La Hija…

(https://youtu.be/B51AWXsXNIk?list=PL0LL6dQu5PUD5D7f5pyoCEsmfIEINbr-H)

Shiri Maimon: New music, classics and more, in updated, but still relevant, styles. Find her music on YouTube. Some of her great songs include: Bashanah Haba’ah, Kama Ahavah with Shimon Boskilah, Teahvi Ktzat Et Etzmoch; v’Rotziti Shetodeah; Now That You’re Gone; MeChakah Shetashuv.

Shir Maimon – Bashanah Haba’ah:

(https://youtu.be/4ojXjl5nLWU)

Shiri Maimon and Shimon Boskilah – Kama Ahavah:

(https://youtu.be/DYH3zJjlXnc)

Shira Maimon – Teahvi Ktzat Et Etzmoch:

(https://youtu.be/UBpT0q-eZD4)

Shiri Maimon – Now That You’re Gone:

(https://youtu.be/534cKbwChxU)

Shiri Maimon – MeChakah Shetashuv:

(https://youtu.be/06SAlQPjGZg)

Rivka Zohar: Meaningful, and beautifully sung, songs. Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: Mah Avarech.

Rivka Zohar – Mah Avarech:

(https://youtu.be/6kaWe7Y50fs)

Hadar Ozeri: Beautiful Psalms and more. Find her music on YouTube. Some of her great songs include: Psalm 121 and HaLevai:

Hadar Ozeri – Psalm 121:

(https://youtu.be/qFViCmK6M40?list=PLQXaZ_19IyN8TseAbKtA558zMZK32szSI)

Hadar Ozeri – HaLevai:

(https://youtu.be/tTnRuybuDBY)

Shaylee Atari: I found this beautiful singer through the writer of the song, Ifty Kerzner (via YouTube). Find her music on Youtube. Great songs include: Etzleinu Bagan.

Shaylee Atari – Etzleinu Bagan:

(https://youtu.be/Y05rqt0YHtw?list=RD1IR3CIhrkw0)

Avaya: I found this beautiful singer on Youtube. Find her music also on Youtube. Great songs include: Hatikvah.

Avaya – Hatikvah:

(https://youtu.be/pI974v1Jdig)

Shalva Band: So special. Find their music on Youtube. Great songs include Hadelet Tihiyeh P’tuchah, their One Day/Medley song, and Shir Ha’Re’ut.

In sign and song:

(http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/272826)

Shalva Band / God Bless America:

(http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/272852)

Shalva Band – Hadelet Tihiyeh P’tuchah:

(https://youtu.be/jUVVw7YTSBI)

Shalva Band – One Day / Medley:

(https://youtu.be/KN5n4eSNGIA)

Shalva Band – Shir Ha’Re’ut:

(https://youtu.be/tAsojiZFqh0)

Havazelet Ron: A pure and mature voice. Find her music on Youtube. Great songs include: Kiryah Yefeyfiyah, Tiyul Leili (Cholot Midbar), and more.

Havazelet Ron – (This one in German):

(https://youtu.be/ElXCfhnJKyM)

Havazelet Ron – Kiryah Yefeyfiyah:

(https://youtu.be/5JeSqMMhtGU)

Havazelet Ron – Tiyul Leili (Cholot Midbar):

(https://youtu.be/dGU8x4Hzhhg)

Havazelet Ron – Haroa Hakatana:

(https://youtu.be/bRugxYARoqg)

El Banat: Find their music on YouTube. Great songs include: Maksima; Maagalim.

El Banat – Maksima:

(https://youtu.be/SeAl4PWhZIo)

El Banat – Maagalim:

(https://youtu.be/l5AxKYFa6TY)

Yamma Ensemble: Putting Psalms to music. Find their music on YouTube.

(https://youtu.be/73QA00odga4?list=RDEPQrWRrk26s)

Tamar Bloch: A beautiful singer in many Middle Eastern voices. Find her music on YouTube in these great ensembles and groups: Habibti Ensemble; Zaaluk; Andalucious; El Banat; and more:

Zaaluk – En Casa de mi Padre:

(https://youtu.be/KsH6KX5OBXU)

Habibti Ensemble – Baghdad:

(https://youtu.be/bkUYJImXlrQ)

Andalucious – Hassebni:

(https://youtu.be/C1lBtjlcALA?list=RDC1lBtjlcALA)

Mor: Find her songs on YouTube. Great songs include Machzik Li Et HaYad.

Mor: Machzik Li Et HaYad:

(https://youtu.be/BuP3NVBjGxI)

Dudu Fisher: Dudu Fisher was a cantor and is the son of a Holocaust survivor. His father grew up in Poland and was taken into hiding from the Nazis by his best friend’s family, the Kvarchuks. Attending a Dudu Fisher concert is an emotional and moving experience, as these videos attest. Find more of his music on: Youtube. Some of his great songs include (theme song from) Exodus, which was penned by Pat Boone, and these:

Dudu Fisher – (Posting): Kantor’s Tears: Dudu Fisher at Synagogue Krakow:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-hRt3mcitQ&list=RDm-hRt3mcitQ)

Dudu Fisher – The Prayer, Les Miserables (Bring Him Home), sung before Pastor John Hagee during the time of his birthday, referencing the four-years’ captivity, to-date at that time, by Hamas of Gilad Shalit:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45B8IqU9IJM&list=RD45B8IqU9IJM)

HaDuda’im V’HaParva’im: Find their music on YouTube. Great songs include: Tsel U’me Be’er:

HaDuda’im V’HaParva’im – Tsel U’me Be’er:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxA1AlH9o-0&list=RDvxA1AlH9o-0)

Yaakov Shwekey: Find his music on YouTube. Great songs include: If I Should Forget Thee, O Jerusalem; Shema Yisroel.flv.

Yaakov Shwekey – Shema Yisroel.flv:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8D1DuVmtVQ&list=RDS8D1DuVmtVQ)

See also these nice YouTube compilations of “Im Eshkechek Yerushalayim”:

Yizkerem YouTube Compilation; Yaakov Shwekey – Im Eshkechek Yerushalayim (If I Forget Thee, O Jerusalem).

~~shaynky911~~ YouTube Compilation; A Shmuel Borger / Amudai Shaish Production; Im Eshkechek Yerushalayim.

Simcha Leiner: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: “A Musical Masterpiece” with Yedidim Choir; Conducted by Yisroel Lamm:

Simcha Leiner and Yedidim Choir – A Musical Masterpiece:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De-_Ub4x5BQ&list=RDDe-_Ub4x5BQ)

Shloime Dachs: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Shema Yisrael.

Shloime Dachs – Shema Yisrael:

(http://youtu.be/dV2jxTUuL44)

Mordechai Ben David: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Kumzits 1 / Shiru LaMelech:

Mordechai Ben David – Kumzits 1 / Shiru LaMelech

(https://youtu.be/nCbTQZNWpns)

Idan Amedi: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Mah At Margishah; Sivon; Chelek Mehazman; Ad Sheyaaleh Hayom Habah.

Idan Amedi – Mah At Margishah:

(https://youtu.be/AeH0XKsiq_4)

Idan Amedi – Sivon:

(https://youtu.be/rBoAeXkmpsc)

Idan Amedia – Chelek Mehazman:

(https://youtu.be/iUMQ1NjHsqY)

Idan Amedi – Ad Sheyaaleh Hayom Habah:

(https://youtu.be/8WQ-hCDe-nQ)

Neil Diamond: Find his music on YouTube, and Everywhere. Some great songs include: Cracklin’ Rosie and Cherry, Cherry.

Neil Diamond – Cracklin’ Rosie and Cherry, Cherry:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxExoU-jyOw&list=RDdxExoU-jyOw)

Aviv Geffen and Matti Caspi: Find their music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Mistovev. Update: On March 8, 2016, a knife-wielding Arab terrorist killed visiting Lubbock, Texas student, Taylor Force, in Tel Aviv-Yafo. Breaking free of a gathering crowd, the terrorist headed toward 26-year old Yishay Montgomery, whose father and grandfather are, incidentally, also from Lubbock, Texas. Clumsily, Yishay fell. (Frankly, I believe, an angel watched over his step.) He was able to whack the guitar he had been carrying over the terrorist’s head. The police shot the terrorist further along down the tayelet. (Hartman, Ben. “‘Guitar Hero’ Adjusting to Newfound Fame After Trying to Hinder Jaffa Terrorist”; The Jerusalem Post; March 9, 2016.) The singer in this video, Aviv Geffen, replaced Yishay’s broken guitar. Thank you, Yishay, and thank you, Aviv. You both rock! In addition to ten others injured, Fox news writes a nice article about the slain victim, Taylor Force. Taylor had been an Eagle Scout, a National Honor Society student, a West Point graduate, and came from a long line of military servers in his family. He had served at Fort Hood, as well as having seen deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has seen major terror hotspots by going out and confronting them. Terror felled this fine gentleman, at 28, in Israel, while he was on a school trip with Vanderbilt University (Fox News: “American Murdered in Israel was West Point Grad who Served in Iraq and Afghanistan”; FoxNews.com; March 9, 2016). I don’t know how to thank you for your service, Mr. Force, and family. My gratitude goes beyond words, but… Shalom. Thank you. Rest forever at peace, knowing that you did your best to try to bring peace to the rest of the world. I’m sorry you lost your life to the purpose. Update – December 21, 2018: The United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations passed the advancement of the bill on August 3, 2017, and on March 23, 2018, President Trump signed it into law.

Aviv Geffen and Matti Caspi – Mistovev:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGTfINnNVMg&list=RDfGTfINnNVMg)

Eliad: Find his music o: YouTube. Some great songs include: Siman.

Eliad – Siman:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc47KqYnmjg&list=RDgc47KqYnmjg)

Maor Edri: Find his music on Youtube. Some great songs include: Kululu.

Maor Edri – Kululu (sound is silent, at first):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDRETnvAvdE&list=RDsDRETnvAvdE)

Eyal Golan: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Elohai; K’She’At I’to; He Who Believes; Va’Ani Koreh Lach; Al Tamori; Ha’Ahavah Ha’Yeshanah; Bi’Ladai’ich; Kol Ha’Chalomot; Ba’Iri; Bishvilech.

Eyal Golan and Nikos Ortis – K’She’At I’to:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agsItmAUZqs&list=RDagsItmAUZqs)

Eyal Golan – Mi Sh’ma’amin:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHWqcdsW_08&list=RDgHWqcdsW_08)

Eyal Golan – Va’Ani Koreh Lach:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCFnAPoWvmA&list=RDRCFnAPoWvmA)

Eyal Golan – Bishvilech:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3FMqG4FN_g&list=RDj3FMqG4FN_g)

Eyal Golan/Variant Versions of K’She’At Ito:

Eyal Golan – K’She’At Ito (Studio Version):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4t2GDIoquE&list=RDg4t2GDIoquE)

Eyal Golan – K’She’At Ito (Music Video Official):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8BSv_FkNHg&list=RDx8BSv_FkNHg)

Eyal Golan – Kol Ha’Chalomot (Studio Version):

(https://www.youtu.be/rgqHT-iy8kA)

Moshik Afia – Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Mah Itach; Chalom Matok; Tfos; Shover Sh’tikah; Al Tachil; Holechet Lach BaSheket; Sach HaKol Neshikah; Mekavim; Rega Amitai; Letof Mesuchan; Od SheMatzati; At Ba’Achat.

Moshik Afia – Mah Itach (Music Video Official):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ugO2ueMtis&list=RD9ugO2ueMtis)

Moshik Afia – Shover Sh’tikah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQkqY1xJXic&list=RDUQkqY1xJXic)

Moshik Afia – Al Telchi:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qWwxQm_QX8)

Moshik Afia – Holechet Lach BaSheket:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Bo35vIgXRY&list=RD0Bo35vIgXRY)

Moshik Afia – Rega Amitai:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3g-ecop-bg&list=RD_3g-ecop-bg)

Moshik Afia – Letof Mesuchan:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk9hMrBdQE0&list=RDPk9hMrBdQE0)

Moshik Afia – Od SheMatzati:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAtswY4KvK8&list=RDlAtswY4KvK8)

Moshik Afia – Mah Itach (Studio Version; Same as Concert Version, with Different Picture):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXJt9043KW0&list=RDYXJt9043KW0)

Shlomo Katz: Find his music on Youtube. Some reat songs include: Od Yishama (There Will Be Heard).

Shlomo Katz – Od Yishama (There Will Be Heard):

(https://youtu.be/_DbMc-xbYOQ?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ

Shlomo Katz, et al – Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach Yartzeit Concert finale.mov:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idiZPCY83k0)

Yehuda Katz: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Bachatzi Halayla (Midnight Escape); Woman of Wisdom and Valor (Eshet Chayil); B’Simchah Rabah (We’re So Happy); Calling Out to You (Elecha); Libi U’b’sari; Loving Life (Mi Ha’Ish); Reflecting Light (K’Gavnah); All Together; Purple Royalty (Shoshanah Ya’Akov); Dancing in Mezeritch; Hand in Hand (Yamin V’Smol); Nigun Lewis; You Are the Kind; Traveller’s Prayer (T’filat HaDerech); Yibaneh HaMikdash, with friends: Raphael Barkats, Chanan Elias, Shlomo Katz, Aron Razel, Yankele Shemesh, Chizki Soifer.

Yehuda Katz – Bachatzi Halayla (Midnight Escape):

(https://youtu.be/u0UN_06tess?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Woman of Wisdom and Valor (Eshet Chayil) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/nb73TalRKYw?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – B’Simchah Rabah (We’re So Happy) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/d30TDPPxs3A?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Calling Out to You (Elecha) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/cH_Vv9Sr9qc?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz V’hamagal –  Libi U’b’sari:

(https://youtu.be/wEQYpCcnmnE?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Loving Life (Mi Ha’Ish):

(https://youtu.be/geMyb2pImuM?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Reflecting Light (K’Gavnah):

(https://youtu.be/UWOz_gWJXP4?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – All Together (composed by Meir Banai, Yair Nitzani):

(https://youtu.be/b7X_ENnjvNw?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Purple Royalty (Shoshanah Ya’Akov):

(https://youtu.be/ygEvI8SrXgo?list=PLMsoBWRyDM56WNWnS31I7XJ5VIQbRoAXZ)

Yehuda Katz – Dancing in Mezeritch:

(https://youtu.be/qhooIOY71RY)

Yehuda Katz – Hand in Hand (Yamin V’Smol) (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/5so_kNsFDlE)

Yehuda Katz – Nigun Lewis (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/7Yvh0Pgsgk4)

Yehuda Katz – Givat Shmuel Carlebach:

(https://youtu.be/NmtYlDBFK54)

Yehuda Katz – You Are the Kind (composed by Reb Shlomo Carlebach):

(https://youtu.be/YHAezU-oMhE)

Yehuda Katz, Reva L’Sheva – Traveller’s Prayer (T’filat HaDerech):

(https://youtu.be/Rvvl75WbBK4)

Yehuda Katz, Raphael Barkats, Chanan Elias, Shlomo Katz, Aron Razel, Yankele Shemesh, Chizki Soifer (recorded by Chanan Elias) – Yibaneh HaMikdash:

(https://youtu.be/M9mCDqCKbkA)

Benny Friedman: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Yesh Tikvah.

Benny Friedman – Yesh Tikvah:

(https://youtu.be/PIPCHjFC9yk?list=PLzb6Bc1k2vUaebYV9sDxE_TBKl2sAWF7U)

Sliichot prayers:

(https://youtu.be/O9Y1WQziOoQ)

Yuval Dayan: Find her music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Od Shetachazor.

Yuval Dayan – Od Shetachazor:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCVl3mhEk7g&list=RDpCVl3mhEk7g)

Beinoni: Find his music on YouTube. Great songs include: Deep Roots.

Beinoni – Deep Roots:

(https://youtu.be/TovnZeD7XEs)

One Family – Music on YouTube includes, World Champion:

One Family – World Champion:

(https://youtu.be/wq1I9vAoL1s)

Ishai Levy: Beautiful music. Find on YouTube, Spotify and others.

Ishay Levi –

(https://youtu.be/rMfBg0OPuXc?list=PLFgquLnL59akKAm-BzEGUi1swo8v-UFTZ)

Narkis: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: Galbi.

Narkis – Galbi:

(https://youtu.be/Vo2wHhdxKf4)

Keren Peles and Ron Buchnik: Find their music on YouTube. Great songs includeL Me’Ever Lanehar.

Keren Peles and Ron Buchnik – Me’Ever Lanehar:

(https://youtu.be/E6fgnGEsocE?list=PLFgquLnL59akKAm-BzEGUi1swo8v-UFTZ)

Maor Edri and Mooki: Find their music on YouTube. Great songs include: Kotev Shirim.

Maor Edri and Mooki – Kotev Shirim:

(https://youtu.be/S2K7VomBnSQ?list=PLFgquLnL59akKAm-BzEGUi1swo8v-UFTZ)

Izkis and Eti Biton: Find music on YouTube.  Great songs include: Sagapo.

Izkis and Eti Biton – Sagapo:

(https://youtu.be/h1kGvrH8CyU)

Akiva Turgeman: Find his music on YouTube. Great songs include: Al Tazvi Yada’im.

Akiva Turgeman – Al Tazvi Yada’im:

(https://youtu.be/u3n2SLWQsXk)

Rotem Cohen: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: El Ha’Olam Shelach.

Rotem Cohen – El HaOlam Shelach:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hC8q4Gab_xM&list=RDhC8q4Gab_xM)

Shuli Natan: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: Yerushalayim Shel Zahav.

Shuli Natan – Yerushalaim Shel Zahav:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYp_c4YsiKo&list=RDvYp_c4YsiKo)

Roni Dalumi: Find her music on Youtube. Some great songs include: Ten.

Roni Dalumi – Ten:

(https://youtu.be/ZINnbP08Kzs?list=PLCE2txRE9iH5mE6-m0OBOSglYFDwZ43i3)

Noa Kirel: Find her music on YouTube. Some great songs include: מגיבור לאויב

(https://youtu.be/2REhb6ywcpM?list=PL8F3F6FrXuEIMshtDBj2s5ZLJTFbq_ABy)

Ohad Moscowitz: Find his songs on YouTube. Some great songs include: Melech Malchei Hamlachim/Mi Bon Siach (The Rose – Cover); Chupah (with Yedidim Choir); Birkat Chupah (All of Me – Cover).

Ohad Moscowitz – Melech Malchei Hamlachim/Mi Bon Siach (The Rose – Cover):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVDrRWJlYU0&list=RDXVDrRWJlYU0)

Ohad Moscowitz And Yedidim Choir – Chupah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh0WyxH1TnE&list=RDRh0WyxH1TnE)

Ohad Moscowitz – Birkat Chupah (All of Me – Cover):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVdYqdr3zdw&list=RDeVdYqdr3zdw)

Jo Amar: Find his songs on YouTube. Great songs include: Kochavi Sokah; Shalom Leven Dodi:

Jo Amar – Kochavi Sokah:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6yxbHLFHw8&list=PLINtTB03kzq3NbilQeZXqd5w20arlOdaS&index=14)

Jo Amar – Shalom Leven Dodi:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOQtA5XozVA&list=PLINtTB03kzq3NbilQeZXqd5w20arlOdaS&index=2)

Samson Kemelmakher: Find his songs on:= Youtube. Some great songs include: Shtetele Beltz.

Moshe Peretz: Find his music on Youtube. Some great songs include: Ulai Ha’Lailah; Yaldah K’tanah; and the very moving project with Israeli newspaper, Yediot Acharonot, named “My Brother”.

Moshe Peretz – Ulai Ha’Lailah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHDuKGNNTc8&list=RDNHDuKGNNTc8)

Moshe Peretz and Agam Buchbut – Yaldah K’tanah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJnOQQ815LQ&list=RDkJnOQQ815LQ)

Agam Buchbut: This young singer has been at her craft for years. I like her early work. Find her music on YouTube. Some great songs include Yaldah K’tanah, with Moshe Perets (see above), and BaYom HaZeh.

Agam Buchbut – BaYom HaZeh:

(https://youtu.be/MYKvKLpugPA)

Shlomit Levy: Find her music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Tzur Menati; A’Salk.

Shlomit Levy – Excerpts of concert footage: Tzur Menati; A’Salk…

(http://youtu.be/TAxXOM-p-_k)

Shir: Find their music on Spotify. Some great songs include: Laila, Laila; Erev Shel Shoshanim; Have Nagila; Ba’Shanah Ha’Ba’ah.

Chava Alberstein: Find her music on Youtube. Some great songs include: Chad Gadya.

Chava Alberstein – Chad Gadya:

(https://youtu.be/DHdVYy5B6JM)

Idan Raichel Project: Find their music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Bo’i.

Idan Raichel Project – Bo’i (with dedication):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25FxYQ5w-NI&list=RD25FxYQ5w-NI)

Chanan Ben-Ari: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Mimcha Ad Elai.

Chanan Ben-Ari – Mimcha Ad Elai:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA1WcPP9uLk&list=RDgA1WcPP9uLk)

Pe’er Tasi: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: the Yves and Lir Remix of ‘Way of Peace’.

Liel Kolet: Find her music on YouTube. See if you can find her really nice PBS special; Some great songs include: Hallelujah; and The Dream of Tomorrow.

Liel Kolet – The Dream of Tomorrow (with Kol HaNeshamah intro):

(https://youtu.be/65tpkO55JI8)

Hallelujah:

TheGuitarNick (Learn Guitar Fingerstyle + TAB; http://www.GuitarNick.com):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXmrDmR07SM&list=RDBXmrDmR07SM)

Leonard Cohen: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Hallelujah.

Leonard Cohen – Hallelujah (Considering the person/listing, do you see anything ironic with the URL address containing the word, “pork”, in it?):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttEMYvpoR-k&list=RDttEMYvpoR-k)

Daniel Kahn: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Hallelujah.

Daniel Kahn: Hallelujah (Yiddish):

(https://youtu.be/XH1fERC_504)

Mike Brant: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs (in Hebrew; most others are French) include: Erev Shel Shoshanim; Erev Tov, and Diber Elai B’Prachim.

Mike Brant – Erev Shel Shoshanim:

(https://youtu.be/3b4A5qMcFgk)

Mike Brant – Erev Tov:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k9Na3HHegk&list=6k9Na3HHegk)

Mike Brant – Diber Elai B’Prachim:

(https://youtu.be/ZQKAqCiCr4o)

Shai Hamber: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: B’toch; Yesh Li Koach; V’At; Karov Elecha; Pri Ganech; Shalechet.

Shai Hamber – B’toch:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2C7R_IWdzg&list=RDf2C7R_IWdzg)

Shai Hamber – Yesh Li Koach:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgEZyvFUn3g&list=RDrgEZyvFUn3g)

Shai Hamber – V’At:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hA5KarhIKQ4&list=RDhA5KarhIKQ4)

Shai Hamber – Karov Elecha:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rO9l_tXqeAc&list=RDrO9l_tXqeAc)

Shai Hamber – Pri Ganech:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcujPbGFN18&list=RDGcujPbGFN18)

Shai Hamber – Shalechet:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pG_LsGwaskc&list=RDpG_LsGwaskc)

Eden Ben Zaken: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: Pisah Mezichroni.

Eden Ben Zaken – Pisah Mezichroni:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fn6cLOjtqto&list=RDFn6cLOjtqto)

Barbra Streisand: One of the greatest voices of all time. Find her music and movies: YouTube and everywhere. Some great movies include: Yentl; Some great songs include: Avinu Malkeinu; HaTikvah.

Barbara Streisand – HaTikvah; and Conversation with Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir, approx. 1978:

(http://youtu.be/8uPHaioopKM)

Barbra Streisand – Avinu Malkeinu:

(http://youtu.be/KUXeiIURirI)

Alma Gluck: Find her music on YouTube. Great songs include: HaTikvah (Israeli National anthem recorded in 1918!); and Chanson Hebraique (recorded in 1917!). Violinist Efrem Zimbalist (Sr.), her husband.

(http://youtu.be/lDJUDqtxK6M)

Mordechai Ben-David: Find his music on YouTube and Spotify. Some great songs include: Mi Ha-Ish?:

Mordechai Ben-David: Mi Ha-Ish?:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yi-wFdgc-8&list=RD_yi-wFdgc-8)

Helmut Lotti – Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Shalom Aleichem; Havah Nagilah.

Helmut Lotti – Shalom Aleichem:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPcffro3fQs&list=RDuPcffro3fQs)

Helmut Lotti – Havah Nagilah:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXS73OD8MMI&list=RDtXS73OD8MMI)

Eden Alene: Israel’s winner of The Next Star to Eurovision contest for 2020, find her music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Fire; Better.

Eden Alene – Better:

(https://youtu.be/mPv1pHGVaS0)

Daklon: Find his music on YouTube. Great songs include: Ahuvat Levavi.

Daklon – Ahuvat Levavi:

(https://youtu.be/MBMRVb60VrA)

Moshe Haim: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Od Yom Yavoh.

Moshe Haim: Od Yom Yavoh

(https://youtu.be/zh7WdYVFsUI?list=PLq5znWywlAlVK1HilsPSJo8xgiOae4Njs)

Moshe Giat: Find his music on YouTube. Some great songs include: Shmur Eli Al Chayali:

Moshe Giat – Shmur Eli Al Chayali:

(https://youtu.be/B5633wZ51nA?list=PLq5znWywlAlVK1HilsPSJo8xgiOae4Njs)

Mashup of Jewish songs through the ages; brought to you by YouTube:

Benny Friedman and Meir Kay:

(https://youtu.be/7qJRgbFeP6A)

Y-Studs:

(https://youtu.be/gbeArPQqsc8)

Radio Lev Hamedina (radio station): Find it on: TuneIn (Requires free app download); net streaming and other apps available for this station via the internet.

Kol Israel (curated radio and news):

http://www.kol-israel.com

American Culture In Music

Created: Approximately March 2, 2016

Updated: January 10, 2017 – Third-party video availability subject to change.

 

These songs featured prominently in my childhood, growing up in America during the 60’s and 70’s, the era from which most of this music originated. It also includes the songs, which became favorites, from the generation of my parents, and the sentimental oldies even they listened to. There’s no way to describe the eras of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s, drenched in emotionalism, unless you re-experienced them through performance media, such as recordings and film. Yep — they don’t make ’em like they used to. The same can be said for the hoppin’ 50’s, caught between the innocence of varsity sweaters and poodle skirts, and the greasers, the vehicle-centric realm of cruisers and cars. From the psychedelic, peace activism and rock-band explosions on the British and American scenes of the 60’s, to the carefree soft-rock sounds of the 70’s, this music each relays the sounds of its decade like no other really can. The decades continue on, in the heyday disco days of the eighties, turning into punk rock, and then the indy and grunge rock scene of the nineties. The following two decades saw trance, electronic dance, more diversity and closer fusions of all things, everywhere. This is it’s story, told only from the perspective of my own growing-up years, as only my story could tell; the rest has to be told by you. This is an aural educational journey to take a look back through time and place, sound and space, as no other school could teach, except by personally experiencing it for yourself. And this is to its purpose — alone.

 

I hope you enjoy these classics as much as I do.

 

A Lover’s Concerto:

The Toys; Original:

(https://youtu.be/FmJ1AqtTuyo)

 

 

A Lover’s Concerto:

Kelly Chen:

(https://youtu.be/HeyocZdBVE4)

 

 

Afternoon Delight:

Starland Vocal Band:

(https://youtu.be/UDeCdqfwmY4)

 

 

Age of Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In:

The 5th Dimension:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjxSCAalsBE&list=RDkjxSCAalsBE)

 

 

Ain’t No Sunshine:

Bill Withers:

(https://youtu.be/YuKfiH0Scao)

 

 

Autumn Leaves:

Frank Sinatra:

(https://youtu.be/zWmLw1dZSWc)

 

 

Autumn Leaves/Les Feuilles Mortes (French):

Yves Montand:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo1C6E7jbPw&list=RDXo1C6E7jbPw)

 

 

Black and White: * Unavailable

Three Dog Night:

(https://youtu.be/4f65mO146Zo)

 

 

By The Time I Get To Phoenix:

Glenn Campbell; Original; 45RPM; Mono:

(https://youtu.be/0NeHeNZkH7k)

 

 

California Dreamin’:

The Mamas And The Papas:

(https://youtu.be/dN3GbF9Bx6E)

 

 

Chloe (The Swamp Song): * Unavailable

George Probert:

(https://youtu.be/gitlVdy1088)

 

 

Chloe (The Swamp Song): * Unavailable

Grand Dominion Jazz Band:

(https://youtu.be/sqbOEFEkFE4)

 

 

Dancing Queen:

ABBA:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYSSD0SVhN0&list=RDXYSSD0SVhN0)

 

 

Didn’t We?:

Glenn Campbell:

(https://youtu.be/7u4G50iBkK0)

 

 

Do You Know The Way To San Jose?:

Dionne Warwick:

(https://youtu.be/jqWt49o7R-k)

 

 

Downtown:

Petula Clark:

(https://youtu.be/l60S18sG3_U)

 

 

Ebb Tide:

Arthur Prysock:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6w58QvLn1M&list=RDI6w58QvLn1M)

 

 

Everybody’s Talkin’:

Harry Nilsson:

(https://youtu.be/2AzEY6ZqkuE)

 

 

This Land Is Mine (Exodus, The Theme From) (Lyrics):

Andy Williams:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTqMs58mMwU&list=RDqTqMs58mMwU)

 

 

Exodus (, The Theme From) (Instrumental):

Ernest Gold:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT3-mOHqva8&list=RDcT3-mOHqva8)

 

 

Galveston:

Glenn Campbell:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTbTHlTmDX8&list=RDZTbTHlTmDX8)

 

 

Georgie Girl: * Unavailable

The Seekers:

(https://youtu.be/wslbfYEizLk)

 

 

Girl From Ipanema:

Astrud Gilberto:

(https://youtu.be/giyzx-xeLko)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

Danny Purches:

(https://youtu.be/2H-ku8NvZeM)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

Peggy Lee:

(https://youtu.be/qWnVg5eidq8)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

David Neal:

(https://youtu.be/OKAneOuDS6A)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

Fabulous Hollywood!

The Hollywood Sounds of

Frank DeVol and His Orchestra:

(https://youtu.be/iphOePrFnqI)

 

 

Going Out Of My Head:

Little Anthony And The Imperials:

(https://youtu.be/Kq204wG8UfA)

 

 

Golden Earrings: * Unavailable

Tamra Rosanes:

(https://youtu.be/AXDwGJl97eU)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

The Clebanoff Strings and Percussion (?)

The Golden Age of Light Orchestras:

100 Great American Light Orchestras;

Volume One:

(https://youtu.be/GSKrgZjwTU8)

 

 

Golden Earrings:

Tanya Karamanos – Violin and Musicians:

(https://youtu.be/1iV4C9oSK0Y)

 

 

Guantanamera: Various Artists;

Original Music By Jose Fernandez Diaz;

Based On A Poem By Jose Marti –

 

Guantanamera:

Huecco, et. al; Traducao Portugues:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPtB6NXiz1g&list=RDVPtB6NXizg)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Dennis Greenwood; English; Lyrics:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJt_q3_ROf0&list=RDwJt_q3_ROf0)

 

 

Guantanamera: * Unavailable

Nana Mouskouri; French:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIjSPFgQl00&list=RDuIjSPFgQl00)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Joe Dassin; French:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YeaKaAwbsM&list=RD5YeaKaAwbsM)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Lucrecia with Andy Garcia; Spanish:

(https://youtu.be/zf9iDO8WwMk)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Compay Segundo; Spanish:

(https://youtu.be/9QO4aegj-jA)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Jose Feliciano; Spanish:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmyQOq4MAdY&list=RDlmyQOq4MAdY)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Julio Iglesias; Spanish:

(https://youtu.be/ikVNjQApJ4A)

 

 

Guantanamera Twist and Shout:

The Mavericks; Tarrytown;

November 1, 2014; Spanish:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcUVTjGzwsU&list=RDtcUVTjGzwsU)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Compay Segundo with Lucrecia and Joseito Fernandez and Famous Singers; Spanish:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwY4wkQXtz0&list=RDuwY4wkQXtz0)

 

 

Guantanamera: * Unavailable

Julio Iglesias and Nana Mouskori; French:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSJAW9oHAXU&list=RDZSJAW9oHAXU)

 

 

Guantanamera:

ABBA; Spanish:

(https://youtu.be/jg6CscmG6-8)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Luciano Pavarotti, Celia Cruz and Jarabe De Palo; For Afghanistan; Spanish:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvQR_OcNG8w&list=RDAvQR_OcNG8w)

 

 

Guantanamera:

Helmut Lotti; Spanish:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uB0VSOrNhJ8&list=RDuB0VSOrNhJ8)

 

 

Guantanamera: * Unavailable

TheGuitarNick (Learn Fingerstyle + TAB; http://www.GuitarNick.com):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDSv-hGfzI9-0&list=RDRDSv-hGfzI9-0)

 

 

Harper Valley PTA:

Jeannie C. Riley:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOZPBUu7Fro&list=RDaOZPBUu7Fro)

 

 

Here Comes The Sun:

The Beatles:

(https://youtu.be/2tO3835ZGSo)

 

 

Honey: * Unavailable

Bobby Goldsboro:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYZE7QQa1Z4&list=RDZYZE7QQa1Z4)

 

 

If I Had A Hammer:

Peter, Paul and Mary (Live):

(Civil Rights March; Washington, D.C.; 1963):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKgm9ARmOMM&list=RDAKgm9ARmOMM)

 

 

If You’re Going To San Francisco (Lyrics):

Scott McKenzie:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EskS_SoGqww&list=RDEskS_SoGqww)

 

 

I’ll Never Smile Again:

Frank Sinatra, Jo Stafford and The Pied Pipers:

(https://youtu.be/kEPnhszmKuo)

 

 

I’ll Never Smile Again:

Jo Stafford:

(https://youtu.be/aZ8COLbG5wA)

 

 

In The Mood:

Glenn Miller:

(https://youtu.be/c2aqHGaSxRI)

 

 

In The Mood:

Glenn Miller:

(https://youtu.be/xPXwkWVEIIw)

 

 

Joy To The World:

Three Dog Night:

(https://youtu.be/xsa6txKXb3w)

 

 

La Vie En Rose*:

Foxtails Brigade:

(https://youtu.be/-NK9zdPj-os)

 

 

Leavin’ On A Jet Plane:

Peter, Paul and Mary:

(https://youtu.be/F9pbDeUmpnwe)

 

 

Lost In Love:

Air Supply:

(https://youtu.be/3G4nyXNleq0)

 

 

Massachusetts: * Unavailable

The Bee Gees:

(https://youtu.be/f4JlL10lgXs)

 

 

Meditation:

Foxtails Brigade:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-zEidLuKYk&list=RD0-zEidLuKYk)

 

 

Message To Michael:

Dionne Warwick:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f3WPBREdjo&list=RD9f3WPBREdjo)

 

 

My Sweet Lord:

George Harrison:

(https://youtu.be/0kNGnIKUdMI)

 

 

Never On Sunday:

Sirtaki (?) / Stevan Vagner (Post):

(https://youtu.be/GI9MIOpyOVA)

 

 

Norwegian Wood:

The Beatles:

(https://youtu.be/VPsEYpvnnRA)

 

 

One Less Bell To Answer:

The 5th Dimension:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZcA3kiaQb0&list=RD9ZcA3kiaQb0)

 

 

One Toke Over The Line: * Unavailable

Brewer and Shipley:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNKL9onYB_8&list=RDMNKL9onYB_8)

 

 

One Toke Over The Line:

Brewer and Shipley:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVxA1MkEkyo&list=RDgVxA1MkEkyo)

 

 

Puff The Magic Dragon:

Peter, Paul and Mary:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FnMmuFaguc&list=RD9FnMmuFaguc)

 

 

Put Your Hand In The Hand:

Elvis Presley (Concert):

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Nkp_t2RUaA&list=RD6Nkp_t2RUaA)

 

 

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You*:

Edgar Ramirez; Jennifer Lawrence:

Excerpt from JOY – Twentieth Century Fox:

(https://youtu.be/QswAZPumAwk)

 

 

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You:

Frank and Nancy Sinatra:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meQUdezfMhk&list=RDmeQUdezfMhk)

 

 

Qualche Stupido Ti Amo / Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You:

Andrea Bocelli and Veronica Berti:

(https://youtu.be/yzyEsiivVD0)

 

 

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You:

Robbie Williams; Nicole Kidman:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtrXxgtYGUw&list=RDrtrXxgtYGUw)

 

 

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You:

Ilias Michailakis and Christine:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GauYVx4oS8&list=RD0GauYVx4oS8)

 

 

Saying Something Stupid Like I Love You:

Priscilla and Nico:

(https://youtu.be/-4lBQs7ISMI)

 

 

Seasons In The Sun:

Terry Jacks:

(https://youtu.be/9E_IBciZoP4)

 

 

Senza Fine*: * Unavailable

Andrea Bocelli (Concert):

(https://youtu.be/QqCmC-7QUoA)

 

 

(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay:

Otis Redding:

(https://youtu.be/rTVjnBo96Ug)

 

 

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes:

Engelbert Humperdinck

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J35KrD0t_VU&list=RDJ35KrD0t_VU)

 

 

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes:

Nana Mouskouri:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNQVhSYvKkw&list=RDsNQVhSYvKkw)

 

 

Somewhere/One Hand, One Heart/I Have A Love:

Barbra Streisand/Johnny Matthis:

(https://youtu.be/OZAHNH2FT90)

 

 

Sunny:

Bobby Hebb:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILEXei9rfhw&list=RDILEXei9rfhw)

 

 

Sunny:

Bobby Hebb and Ron Carter:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRWyxzmNdJc&list=RDuRWyxzmNdJc)

 

 

The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down:

Joan Baez:

(https://youtu.be/C_ksYL26lZE)

 

 

The Very Thought Of You:

Engelbert Humperdinck

(https://youtu.be/5E1ugy_-ogQ)

 

 

The Very Thought Of You:

Nat King Cole:

(https://youtu.be/tOaWJu8Wuj0)

 

 

The Windmills Of My Mind:

Neil Diamond:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEDtJrhAkF0&list=RDdEDtJrhAkF0)

 

 

These Boots Were Made For Walkin’:

Nancy Sinatra (Lyrics) / * Decided to delete

(Looks like a personal video message; Sorry ’bout that, but it seemed to have the best sound quality):

 

 

Those Were The Days:

Mary Hopkins:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUsmEcJSdzc&list=RDZUsmEcJSdzc)

 

 

Up, Up And Away:

The 5th Dimension:

(https://youtu.be/5akEgsZSfhg)

 

 

When Will I See You Again:

Three Degrees:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUSYj5zq144&list=RDHUSYj5zq144)

 

Wichita Lineman:

Glenn Campbell:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJBvdEBpHE8&list=RDTJBvdEBpHE)

 

 

Wichita Lineman:

Glenn Campbell; Concert Footage, 2006:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E80727OUUDI&list=RDE80727OUUDI)

 

 

Yellow Bird:

The Kingston Trio:

(https://youtu.be/bIC7hmSMq54)

 

 

Yellow Bird:

Johnny Tillotson:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0d6jFSYEzo&list=RDy0d6jFSYEzo)

 

 

Yellow Bird:

The Brothers Four:

(https://youtu.be/RdvUm-CJhVc)

 

———————————————————————-

* Andrea Bocelli sings these on his David Foster-produced PBS special, “Love In Portofino”.

 

These pressings and video clips showcase the sound of the times as represented by its diverse people — the legacy of our pride, and were the discs that were spun in broadcast studios, dance halls, and homes across America. It was a time of discovery, mergence, and awakening; carefree, yet still cognizant and concerned. A movement of unity was beginning in quietude and celebration. These were the days.

 

Thank you to all the artists and to those who support them, both out-loud and in quiet, as well as to those who can only hint their approval. Your voices will all be heard, one day.

Anthology of World Music: The Music of Afghanistan

 

Anthology of World Music: The Music of Afghanistan; (p) International Institute for Traditional Music (Berlin). Originally issued as the UNESCO collection. Original Fifty Albums of Anthology of Traditional Music of the World, published by Barenreiter Verlag/Musicaphon. © 2003 Rounder Records Corp.; One Camp Street, Cambridge, MA, 02140. (http://www.rounder.com/) email: (info@rounder.com) Rounder-82161-5121-2. Commentary by Professor Alain Danielou (1902-1994). Edited for the International Music Council by the International Institute for Comparative Music Studies and Documentation (Founder, and first Director, Professor Alain Danielou). Succeeding Prof. Danielou was Professor Ivan Vandor.

The dust-jacket of this c.d. notes the many influential elements of the countries surrounding Afghanistan upon its music, including ancient forms of Greek, Iranian, Turkish, Indian, Russian, Roma folk music, and even stylings resembling those of the European Middle Ages! It’s no wonder, considering that Afghanistan is situated almost at the juncture of where these civilizations meet.

Some of the instruments used in these recordings include: versions of a Lute, known to them as: Tumbur (plucked); Dambura (two-string); Dotar (three-string); Bowed Instruments: Ritchak (popular in the North); Sarinda (popular in the South); Drums: Dhol (two-sided); Zer-Berhali (one-sided); Doirah (tambourine); Sornai (oboe; found in tombs of Sumer; “Sahnai,” in India); Tula (flute); Cheng (called a “Jew’s Harp” and said to be known all over the Orient).

In totality, this is a very nice sampling of Afghan (Afghani) music.

1. Song of Kataran (Turkestan) (4:49): Oldish, chanty, based on a few notes which makes it mildly hypnotic. Makes me think of what might be the sound of northern India, except on a lower voice range, mixed so because it headed west.
2. Song of Badarshan (3:06): Sounds like a regal, Renaissance processional march, conducted in the outer courtyards of perhaps a Persian or Turkish ruler.
3. Melody for Flute from Turkestan (2:40): Really interesting, small flute adds to its trill-like characteristics.
4. Festive Music from Chardi (in the region of Kabul) (3:53): Somehow, what seems to be like a major tune-up session for the horn section in the orchestral pit emerges to several thematic tunes. This mish-mash works.
5. Chant from Azarejot (Central Afghanistan) (5:40): Rolling music sounds great and is suddenly punctuated by discordant vocals. Startling, at first, it immediately settles in and blends together in a very nice, almost African-style sound.
6. National Afghan Dance (Shah Mast) (1:55): Sounds like they’re playing giant rubber bands in the National Afghan Dance.
7. Chant from Farkhar (4:48): This one sounds more typically Arabic to me, though it’s sung in “Persian” and is said to be in the Greek genre familiar in Persian, Arabic, and Greek music.
8. Village Dance Melody (of the region of Kabul) (1:59): Soft with drums predominant and balailaika-reminiscent banjo-like strumming.
9. Pushtu Quatrain (Charbait) (4:15): Familiar Greek-like style found in Arab refrain.
10. Ancient Chant of Kabul (3:21): This sounds like a man calling plaintively upon the woman he seeks to court. I wonder what it really says?
11. Ancient Chant of Khodaman (2:37): Very emotional singing — Why don’t we have such intense feelings like this anymore? Have we become too desensitized?
12. Tumbur (Lute) Solo (3:45): Instrumental song only; played with Tumbur and Zer-Berhali acting in consonance with each other, extremely tightly.
13. Ghazni Chant (2:09): I think I’ve heard this tune with some other different background — I’m thinking one of the popular Israeli singers, like Eyal Golan, Moshik Afia, Moshe Peretz or Dudu Aharon.
14. Chorus from the Panshir (3:12): Repetitive talk-singing and clapping; I don’t hear the doirah (tambourine) that’s supposedly supposed to be playing in this song.
15. Solo of Sarinda (2:55): This is nice. It’s another Instrumental with bow instruments supposedly in the Roma mode, but I don’t really hear it.
16. The Dotar (Small Lute) of Herat (3:14): Instrumental; twangy and plucky, almost like an Australian didgeridoo.

 

Shir – Israeli Songs

Shir – Israeli Songs

Listen in Spotify to the soul-rending songs of the Jewish spirit (must have Spotify installed to hear in entirety; these are just samples).

This experience replicates some of the religious prayers and rites of our people through our actual prayers/songs, as well as being culturally interpreted through new, modern song, which, nevertheless hearkens back to the past. Some of these songs were born in kinship with the rebirthing of the nation, and reflect that. Overall, you will hear the melancholic minor-key beauty so particular and prevalent in the essence of our souls.

Abayudaya: Music from the Jewish People of Uganda

Address updated from the liner notes to correspond with website information (please verify this information before use):

Smithsonian Folkways Mail Order, PO Box 37012, MRC 520, CG 2001, Washington, D.C. 20013-7012; Phone/U.S.: (800) 410-9815, or (888) FOLKWAYS; Phone/International: (202) 633-6450; Fax/U.S.: (800) 853-9511, or (202) 633-6477; Website/(http://www.folkways.si.edu); Informational Requests (not secure for orders!): (smithsonianfolkways@si.edu). (p) and © 2003 Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. Compiled and annotated by Jeffrey A. Summit, co-author with Richard Sobol, of Abayudaya: The Jews of Uganda (New York: Abbeville Press, 2002). He is a Research Professor at Tufts University, where he also serves as Rabbi and executive director of Hillel.

Folkway Records was founded in 1948 by Moses Asch. The Smithsonian Institute acquired the collection in 1987 from the Asch estate. Smithsonian Folkways Recordings is a non-profit label “expressing a commitment to cultural diversity, education and increased understanding.”

I’m glad I wrote my comments prior to reading the CD’s liner notes and revealed my own impressions without being influenced by someone else’s thoughts. In the end, though, after hearing the entire CD and then reading the story, I must say that the story did influence my thoughts.

Nowadays in this crazy world, everybody criticizes and hates the Jews and tells them what awful people they are — so much so that the United Nations disproportionately issues resolutions against them; the Christians and others start a boycott and divestment campaign to stop others from doing business with us (the Jews), which, with the exception of oil, is the original way that the Arabs got others to boycott us and use them instead. If a business “did business” with the Jews, then the Arabs would not give that company its business; and if the Arabs were courted by foreign businessmen, then the foreign businessmen had to cease all dealings with the Jews before acquiring any Arab business! Given the Inquisition, the Crusades, the pogroms and The Final Solution against us, why on earth would anybody desire to be a part of the Jewish people?

The answer is — for the same reason that they hate us. For because G-d said that we would be His people and He would be our G-d, we are envied and despised and need to be made to look unworthy of the honor (already bestowed). That is the reason for “replacement theology,” whereby another group claims conferred status for themselves and tries to make it appear that our position (in G-d’s eyes) has been replaced.

That is why I am very wary of all those who have gone before and all those who will come since who wish to ally themselves to Judaism in claims of being Jewish. Some claim to be lost tribes, and if we get it wrong by forsaking them, we will be in sore trouble with the L-rd for doing so.

This group of people from Uganda, calling themselves ‘The Abayudaya’, does not claim Jewish lineage, but claims to be Jewish through the practice of faith. The CD notes say that, of the approximately 600 people which comprise this community, there span five Bantu ethnic and language groups: Baganda, Basoga, Bagisu, Bagwere, and Banyole. It has been long known that Christian missionaries have, for hundreds of years, been actively engaged in the proselytization of the African continent to make Christian converts of the African people. They have succeeded tremendously. Many of the Abayudaya converted to Christianity under the regime of Idi Amin. The Anglican Church Missionary Society even evangelized the Abayudaya’s founder, Semei Kakungulu, for the Anglican Church.

Kakungulu had hoped to be recognized by Britain as a king in the eastern region of Uganda, but when he was not, he joined the Malakite Protestants instead. By 1919, he is said to have embraced the concept of male circumcision on the eighth day of life, which the Malakite’s founder, Malakai, told him only Jewish people practice. He, his sons, and male followers were circumcised, and they practiced a mixed style of Biblical observance and Protestantism.

Kakungulu adapted Malakite worship music and developed the Sabbath liturgy for the Abayudaya. Their first contact with Judaism occurred when Kakungulu met a Jew named Yusuf, a trader who taught them certain prayers and blessings, elementary Hebrew, and the basics of Kosher slaughtering.

At this point, they dropped references to Jesus and the practice of baptism. Another Jewish man from Yemen, David Solomon, provided them basic Hebrew books and Jewish calendars. It is noted that they had had little contact with Jews up until the mid-1960’s.

The Abayudaya still celebrate the local traditions of their language and ethnic groups and don’t find this to be in conflict with the Jewish identity they have chosen for themselves.

In 1962, Mr. Solomon asked Arye Oded, secretary at the Israeli Embassy in Kampala, to visit them. Mr. Oded did so and arranged for prayerbooks to be sent to them. They began to restructure their worship to more closely resemble Judaic practice, but Idi Amin (1971-1979) put an end to all that.

I guessed that “Yudaya” meant having to do with the Jews; I was right — it means “Jew” in the Luganda language. The plural, “Jews,” is “Bayudaya.” “Abayudaya” means “The Jews,” repeating the definite article when referring to themselves as “The Abayudaya.”

They continue to use their African dialect languages; Hebrew is not used as a communicational language, and is not indigenous to their culture. Hebrew mistakes I noted in several places where it is used in song are referenced in the liner notes, explained as the Luganda influence adding vowels to the Hebrew pronunciation. For instance, I thought I heard an “i” sound at the end of “likrat,” which should not be there. In Hebrew, adding an “i” would mean “to me”, where it is not warranted; I also thought I heard a “u” sound added (some Hebrew dialects do seem to have this, though).

During Idi Amin’s eight- to nine-year reign of Uganda, many Abayudaya converted to Christianity, leaving only about three-hundred of the community remaining with what faith they had acquired to-date. Much of it was forgotten during this time, and they allege to have worshipped in secret, attempting to make its revival beginning in the early 1980’s with the “Young Jewish Club.”

In 1988, the Anglican School claimed Nabugoye Hill where the original Moses Synagogue was. Joab (J.J.) Keki, his brothers, and some youth formed a new group they named “The Kibbutz,” and squatted in one of the buildings on the hill. Kakungulu’s son, though, had converted to Christianity.

As representative of the Abayudaya, Keki first visited the Nairobi Jewish community in the late 1980’s, but was disbelieved. His brother, Gershom Sizomu, however, began to study with one of their members in the early 1990’s.

Many of the Abayudaya now wish to move to Israel. To be recognized formally for one who was not born into the Jewish faith, a halachic conversion must take place and would generally need to be performed by an Orthodox Rabbi. Three Conservative and one Reform Rabbi went in 2002 there to perform conversion for more than 350 members of the community.

Kakungulu divided the Song of Moses into eight songs, which was the basis for Abayudaya worship in the early 1980’s; new compositions were created later on by the Young Jewish Club and were based on various sources and influences: Zulu music, music of the Independent Churches in Kenya, The Salvation Army, Israel Church, and Bantu folk music. Most are sung in the Luganda language with an occasional Hebrew word added. In one of the songs on their CD, they sing of “Musa,” which is the Arabic word for the Jewish Moses, whom the Muslims consider a prophet. The Psalms were all originally sung in Luganda, but they are now starting to be increasingly sung in Hebrew.

Popular African music also plays a role in shaping the composition of Abayudayan music. They seem to prefer their own compositions and liturgy over incorporating traditional Jewish music and prayer services into their own. It does not seem to me to be part of the Jewish community when tradition is held in such disregard, in deference to secular, non-religious factors. What has held all Jews together, despite differences in worship style, are certain prayers and traditions which cannot just be jettisoned and its results considered Jewish at the same time. While Reform and Orthodox practice, on outward appearance, seem to be unrelated at-best, the premise of Judaism remains essentially, at its core, the same.

In a dustjacket photo, the menorah crafted by one of their people is a symbolic rendition only — a metal sculpture without a place for candles or oil. We use a chanukkiyah to commemorate the Hasmonean Jewish victory more than 2000 years ago over the occupying Roman pagan forces, when we recouped our Temple and resanctified it with the cruze of Holy oil found there, which burned eight days, ensuring enough time for additional oil to be produced. The chanukkiyah, used only for this festival commemoration, has eight place-arms to represent each day for which the light was kindled, plus one holder more for the lead candle. There is to always burn an eternal flame kept lit in the Temple.

I don’t know whether the Abayudaya have been formally recognized, but without going through an Orthodox conversion, it seems unlikely to be a possibility, despite everyone’s best wishes. They insist on maintaining their own traditions and not adopting the other Jewish ones. They are adamant about that. So, what makes that Jewish? To me, that pretty much makes it… Bantu.

1) Psalm 136 (3:24) – Beautiful in phases I and II (upbeat mode). Swahili Mapambio style used in evangelical Churches throughout East Africa. Composed by J.J. Keki.

2) Katonda Oyo Nalimana (G-d is All-Knowing) (4:09) – Crazy drums, crazy chanting, frantic clapping and crazy yips (as in, “whoo-whoo” crazy). So crazy, singers even do the “whoo-whoo” screaming where you pat your lips with your flat hand. Undignified. A traditional song of the Basoga people with improvised words in Luganda (as they traditionally are in this style and context).

3) Hiwumbe Awumba (G-d Creates and then Destroys) (2:31) – Crazy music-box ukelele-sounding song with bird-twittering in the background. Mentions airplanes, bicycles, cars and death. By Michael Mausoni, whose own family are Christian converts. Similar to 1990’s-style sounds. Umm……………….

4) Mwana Talitambula (The Child Will Never Walk) (1:18) – A child singing about a child who will never walk. I like this. The child uses vocalizations as if it were an instrument. Lusoga text based on local traditions.

5) Mwana, Ngolera (Baby, Keep Quiet) (0:49) – An older child in a deeper tone singing rhythmically, as if an instrument. Lunyole text based on local traditions.

6) Tulo, Tulo (Sleep, Sleep) (0:52) – One singer, singing softly, “Sleep, sleep.” Very nice. Popular Baganda lullabye, Luganda text. “Sleep, sleep, take the child. If you don’t, then you are a witch! I want to go dancing, change my life. You only live once.” Sounds like typical American crap from too-young parents with children, who still want to party and foist their children on others. Not Jewish values at all.

7) I am a Soldier (0:46) – Lots of children singing that they’re a soldier in the Army of the L-rd. (In English). This song made me angry. I feel they are mocking Israel and Jews with their English, saying they are a soldier in the L-rd’s Army. It comes across very poorly, as if it was meant to. Indeed, it was a Pentecostal Church song to which they added the final verse, “in the Army of the L-rd” to supposedly make it “Jewish”.

8) Mi Khamokha (Who is Like You, O, G-d?) (0:18) – Parts of a Hebrew prayer. Different than I’m used to. Different melody, as theirs is composed by Aaron Kintu Moses. (One verse, in Hebrew).

9) Kabbila (The Patch of Forest) (3:49) – Repetitive. Woman’s voice too shrill for my ears. Traditional Baganda folk song, text in Luganda.

10) Twagala Torah (We Love the Torah) (1:33) – Text in Luganda, English and Hebrew. Melody and Luganda text by Moses Sebagabo.

11) We are Happy (3:25) – An actual song with accompaniment, singing ‘they’re happy’. Village guitar music, keyboards, occasional drums and adungu (harp) about Purim, with improvised lyrics to mark occasion of the festivity. Composed by Gershom Sizomu. (In English).

12) Adon Olam (Master of the World) (1:53) – I nod in praise. Hebrew text. Melody by Gershom Sizomu.

13) Lekhah, Dodi (Come, My Beloved) (5:21) – I think I hear some Hebrew mistakes. Hebrew text, sung in Hebrew. Melody by J.J. Keki.

14) Psalm 92 (4:59) – Sounds like they’ve received some coaching from Missionary Christians teaching hymns. Composed by Jonadav Keki (J.J. Keki and Gershom Sizoku’s father). Influenced by Protestant worship. Text in Luganda.

15) Psalm 93 (2:44) – Another Christian hymn-sounding song. (“Musa?”). Text in Luganda. Melody by Jacob Mwosuko.

16) Kiddush and Motzi (Sabbath Blessing over Wine and Bread) (1:11) – The blessings over bread and wine (different tunes than I’m used to). (In Hebrew). Melody by Gershom Sizomu.

17) Psalm 121 (1:31) – With jingle bells! Text in Luganda. Melody by Miriam Keki (1980’s).

18) Maimuna (2:13) – Crazy yips, ululations, whistles — too much! J.J.Keki’s campaign song for chairman of Namonyonyi subcounty. He first ran unsuccessfully in 2000, and then again at a later date, after 9/11/2001, which was successful (Keki was walking up to the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001, when the first plane hit the tower). Based on a modified version of a Bagisu circumcision song, although Abayudaya do not participate in Bagisu circumcision rituals, but have close contact with them. Maimuna is a woman’s name. “Maimuna, the animal is in the trap. Maimuna, ‘Where are we going?’ You are required to go to school before you obtain leadership positions.” The final line is sung with an alternated response: “J.J.”, “Keki”. This sounds like the situation they were in under British Colonial rule, not Judaism.

19) Hinei Ma Tov (Behold How Good it is for Brothers to Dwell Together) (1:23) – Hebrew mistakes again (adding an “i” after a word where it doesn’t really belong, and a “u”). Different tune, also. Text in Luganda and Hebrew. Group composition of the Young Jewish Club in the 1980’s.

20) Ali Omu Yekka (My Only One) (4:45) – A song with musical accompaniment. It’s very nice. Some words include: “My Beloved”, ” My Doctor”, “My Wealth… the only one I choose”. Sounds rather like stereotyping of the Jews, no? Sounds like a choice based on acquiring traits by association, as if talismanic, no? Text in Luganda by J.J. Keki. Melody by J.J. Keki.

21) Psalm 150 (3:33) – I started singing along; I must know some of the tune. Text in Luganda, with last verse in Hebrew. Melody by J.J. Keki.

22) Deuteronomy 32:8 / Song Two (Selection) (0:35) – A chant. Text in Luganda. Adapted by Kakungulu, founder of the Abayudaya, from Malakite melodies. This song is no longer used, except at sad occasions.

23) Deuteronomy 32:39 / Song Eight (3:35) – Slow singing by men. Text in Luganda (some seemed to sound like Arabic: I thought I heard the word, “Sura,” meaning, ‘Chapter.’). Adapted by Kakungulu, founder of the Abayudaya, from a Malakite melody. Sung by J.J. Keki, Gershom Sizomu, Aaron Kintu Moses, and their mother, Devorah (they are one family). This song is no longer used, except at sad occasions.

24) Psalm 130 (1:52) – A little ditty. Text in Luganda. Melody by Yael Keki. This song is only used for sad occasions.