The King is in the field. I certainly wouldn’t want to be caught solely behind a computer or phone screen as opportunity knocks during this time of reflection, growth and progress. I’d rather be learning Rabbi Simon Jacobson’s sefer, “60 days: A spiritual Guide to the High Holy Days,” with DJ Al, my hubby/study-buddy.
Music has a power of its own and can certainly play a role in advancing us forward. There’s been a slew of great new music put out since Tisha B’av, and it’s no wonder that much of it is inspirational.
“Avodat Halev” by Aryeh Kunstler and Itzik Dadya, combining both English and Hebrew, stirs the soul.
Consider this description of Mordechai Shapiro’s beautiful song “Umibadalecha”: An Army of Yidden is waiting. Some wait for a zivug, a match, others for a child. They proclaim unanimously, “Umibaladecha,” only you. As one, Bonei Olam’s Ohel Sarala and Vzakeini participants tap into the unparalleled strength of tefillah, davening to the One who has the power to bring the miracles, our Father. Very deep indeed. We feel blessed to visit my father, our greatest fan. When generations unite, we are unstoppable. Avraham Rosenblum and Joey Newcomb held a multigenerational farbrengen that wowed the crowd #TYH!
The sensitivity of our singers always touches us deeply. They often turn their feelings into songs. Awareness of and attunement to others, this time of year especially, is very important. Our leaders remind us that the holidays are difficult for people who either are alone or feel alone. I’ll put on my chaplain hat here and urge all of us to extend extra sensitivity, kindness, a warm welcome and perhaps an invitation to others.
Zevy Giniger and Dovid Pearlman’s song “Wings,” representing Camp Simcha’s Bike4Chai, speaks for itself. “Going to Yerushalayim” by Shlepping Nachas is upbeat and great fun, as is Thank You Hashem’s Russian version of “Geshmak to be a Yid.” By the way, Reb Nissim Black has a new show on Thank You Hashem’s YouTube network, filled with interesting content live and behind the scenes.
Benny Friedman’s “Tu Tu Tu” is not to be missed. Ari Hill’s “Oh Yerushalayim” touches on bullies and peaceful protests—peace in general in Israel. May clarity reign. New York has also dealt with protests of late, headed by Curtis Sliwa, founder of The Guardian Angels. May Hashem protect our protectors.
“Hu Hamelech/He Is the King” stars Nissim Black and Gad Elbaz, a dynamic duo. The hauntingly beautiful “Lost Words” by Tali Yess brought me to tears, as he references distance and conflict repair, which is so much healthier than conflict avoidance. “Bitachon” by Beri Weber is a jolly zemer. Eli Herzlich’s “Marsh Chevron” music video boasts great sound and imagery. Akiva Gelb’s “Hashem I Am Worthy of You Being With Me” provides a meaningful reminder of our unique value in this world, presented by a diverse and talented group. Simche Friedman’s “Lirkod Ito” is a lively niggun, so get out those dancing shoes as we follow the yellow brick road forward in life.
Who can ever forget Mendy Wald’s classic “Zochreinu L’chaim,” this time of year or any? Wishing the entire Jewish Link family a Shana Tova! Here’s to new beginnings! Thank you Hashem!
Al and Sarah (Newcomb) Gordon own and operate 1640 WJPR, a unique radio station in hybrid format out of Highland Park/Edison, New Jersey. Al has been dazzling Radioland with his voice and personality for decades. Sarah, a certified chaplain, columnist, writer, realtor and therapeutic healer, is new to radio and new to the Gordon household. Together they hope to blaze a unique trail utilizing their special koach, impacting their children, grandchildren, community, many fans and all others as intended from above, one song and one smile at a time. #TYH Nation YOU matter! They can be reached at: [email protected].
