Dovid Pearlman has big shoes to fill. Coming from a family of musicians and singers, Pearlman embarked on his musical career when he was just 8 years old. And 12 years later, he has only grown—physically, of course, but also in his talent and professional life. Now, the 20-year-old student at Lander College for Men is juggling it all: school, social life and a robust profile in the Jewish music industry.

Pearlman, a Staten Island native, was recruited to sing for the Miami Boys Choir. Carrying on a legacy from his father and uncle, who both also performed in the choir, Pearlman was entranced by the entire process of putting together a concert. “I really love everything that goes into it…learning new songs, learning choreography, getting to travel and perform for people all over the world,” he said.

His five years with the Miami Boys Choir sparked something in him that has carried on into his young adulthood. “I thought, ‘If I could do this when I’m older, by all means, I want to pursue this the most that I can, and make as many people feel the simcha as I can.’” And so, upon finishing with the choir around his bar mitzvah, Pearlman immediately began working with the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools on a batch of educational songs for Jewish students across the country.

Through his work at the consortium, Pearlman was connected with Jewish songwriter Chayala Neuhaus, who was well known among the women’s Jewish music circuit. Pearlman and Neuhaus went on to collaborate on the release of the album “Miracles” in 2015, consisting of 10 of Neuhaus’ original compositions. “Miracles” was an instant hit, thanks to Neuhaus’ pre-existing fanbase of women who had learned her songs in school and summer camp.

“My work with Neuhaus, and the release of ‘Miracles,’ really established me as a child solo artist,” Pearlman explained. “The music was very soulful and touched people’s hearts.”

Pearlman then spent several years making the transition from child soloist to adult artist. During his time as a student at TABC, he pondered which direction he wanted to take his music career, writing new songs at every chance between classes. Finally, in 2019, Pearlman hit a turning point in his career upon his release of the song “Chaver Sheli,” an upbeat tune with a music video filmed on the grounds of Camp Morash in Lakewood, Pennsylvania.

And two years later, in 2021, Pearlman was able to execute what he refers to as his “debut album,” with the release of 11 original songs. This album, entitled “Shira Shebalev,” includes a song very close to his heart, composed by his late uncle, Zavel Pearlman.

“Zavel defied many odds to live a beautiful life of 19 years,” Pearlman said, explaining that his uncle was born with a serious heart condition and was not given more than a few weeks to live. “He was able to touch the hearts of so many people with his singing voice. After he passed away in 2005, when I was just 3 years old, we discovered a tape recording of a song he wrote which he had left behind in his bedroom. So with permission from my family, I was able to record and release this song on my album…it even includes Zabel’s vocals in the background.” Pearlman described feeling connected to his uncle, and trying to create music in his uncle’s memory. “I’m constantly thinking about him—he is with me.”

Because of his uncle’s passing, Pearlman understood from an early age that music has the power to heal. Aside from his family’s personal relationship with music, Pearlman recalled a story that moved him to help others with their struggles through music. “There was an IDF soldier suffering from traumatic injuries after a terrorist attack,” he said. “This soldier’s friend reached out to me and shared that listening to my music helped him become more responsive to his doctors.”

Writing and releasing meaningful music is not the only endeavor for Pearlman. He finds himself singing at simchas at least several times a month, something he loves to do. He explained that while he’s happy to perform original work, he is quite flexible and open to whatever the ba’alei simcha want him to provide. “It’s really exciting. I love to be a part of simchas and bring joy to others through music.”

Between writing, recording and performing, how does Pearlman do it all? “When you have something you love to do, you find the time to do it,” he said, adding that the popularity of Zoom courses has helped him manage his busy music schedule. In the meantime, Pearlman is always looking for more opportunities to share his love of music with the world, and is “on a recording spree,” with new songs to come.

To book the talented young star for your next simcha, visit his website at www.dovidpearlman.com, or send him a WhatsApp at
732-994-3435.

By Channa Fischer