Clearly, we were ahead of our time back in 1995. In the tradition of Jewish hip-hop artists MC Heeb and Kid Tu’Fonqué (and Weed, our goyishe homeboy), meet Matisyahu, the Chassidic reggae rapper.
Hangin’ with my Hebrew Homies
Clearly, we were ahead of our time back in 1995. In the tradition of Jewish hip-hop artists MC Heeb and Kid Tu’Fonqué (and Weed, our goyishe homeboy), meet Matisyahu, the Chassidic reggae rapper.
Way Too Much Culture Collision
“In the crowded reggae scene, Matisyahu literally stands out like no other. Beyond his versatile voice, which ranges from sweet and fluid to rough and rugged, he’s a very unexpected face: standing over six feet tall, wearing the traditional garb of a Hasidic Jew. With his long beard and black hat, this 26- year-old lyricist, MC, and beatboxer is a singular performer whose distinctive power, poetry, and skills unify the inspirations he found in Bob Marley, hiphop, and his own cultural influences.”
Yup
But, believe it or not, the music’s pretty good. I imagine that if I ever saw him live, rapping in black suit and long beard, my head would probably asplode.
— Ben
Where you heard the Hebrew homeboy
Ben, was that your songlist on WTMD this morning? If so, mighty fine. I had to google you after I heard it. I’m back in B’more after 11 years living in even less-auspicious locales.
OUCH!
After reading this I had to look up “auspicious”. Damn, that hurt. Of course I think I may have just made your point for you.
He’s popular
I guess this guy’s popularity has gone stratospheric. Quotes taken from today’s paper:
“And his 2005 concert CD “Live at Stubb’s” has claimed the top spot on the reggae chart for eight straight weeks, selling more than 300,000 copies.”
“His transformation into an international star of devout faith is a story of two redemptions…”