Gedalya Folk Rock Rabbi

In an effort to capture the spirit of the times, Gedalya looks back at classic folk artist to create modern message of connection and understanding

NEW YORK (February 8, 2023) — Woody Guthrie famously called people hoping machines, and as everyone settles into 2023, Gedalya, known by his fans as the Folk-Rock Rabbi, recalls and recounts that same sentiment in his latest album, This is My World.

“One of Guthrie’s most beloved songs was This Land is Your Land, and I wanted to expand on that idea for the new digital age,” Gedalya said. “His was a message of the power of empathy and hope, and I believe that continuing on that message is more important than ever.”

With the release of This is My World, Gedalya continues to spread messages of unity through his unique blend of folk, rock, and spiritual music.

“Through uplifting lyrics and memorable melodies, I invite listeners to join me in creating a better world for all,” Gedalya said. “Small actions can make a huge difference in the world, and I hope listeners feel empowered to create a better world as they listen to the new album.”

This is My World features eleven tracks that showcase Gedalya's exceptional songwriting skills and ability to connect with his audience. With a mix of upbeat rock songs, introspective ballads, and spiritual anthems, the album is a testament to Gedalya's versatility as an artist.

But throughout, he keeps a focus on a powerful message.

"I believe that music has the power to bring people together and help us heal,” Gedalya said. “With This is My World, I wanted to create a body of work that would inspire and encourage people to put their focus on making a positive difference in their communities." 

“Thanks to amazing advancements in technology, we have access to more information and more people than in the history of humanity. The internet has connected us all, creating a time where we have the ability to work together for a better tomorrow. But we have to choose it. I want This is My World to be that invitation to step up and champion the world you want to live in.”

The album also reflects a new approach from the artist.

“Currently, it can be difficult to determine which genre one's music belongs to,” Gedalya said. “In the current musical climate, there are so many new categories, feels, and sounds that everyone is blending and experimenting with to create something creative, new and exciting.”

In an effort to take advantage of that musical climate, he said, with This is My World, he focused on finding his place musically and continued carrying his upbeat messaging.

One day, he sat down and asked himself, "Gedalya, where do you fit in?"

And after he pondered the question, he said an inner voice cried out, "You're a folk singer!" and that inspiration led to the development of the new album. 

“When you look around with an open mind and a desire to grow spiritually, you will find so many things to learn,” Gedalya said. “But as reflected in the first track, Look at the World, people have to choose to be there and take advantage of the one and only opportunity we get to experience this life.”

With This World is an Illusion, Gedalya drives the listener to explore the duality of existence and finding the right path. Song for Peace pushes a message of giving to others, and Eyes on Wine, inspired by a verse from The Book of Proverbs, preaches focus. 

Those tracks – along with the rest of the album – share the importance of learning to live in a way that benefits the world.

“While you listen to the songs, I hope that you will listen with an open heart and an open mind and that you will find that place within yourself that shares what you're hearing,” Gedalya said.

Songs from This is My World are currently available for purchase for digital play on Gedalya's website as well as on Bandcamp.

Physical copies of the album, along with digital copies of the eleven tracks, can also be found on his website, TheFolkRockRabbi.com. CDs can also be ordered by emailing Gedalya directly at GedalyaMusic@Gmail.com.
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The Folk-Rock Rabbi’s latest release, ‘Needle and Thread’ aims to connect people with different backgrounds by recognizing their similarities

NEW YORK (July 10, 2022) — Gedalya, the New York based musician known for his infectious melodies and positive, lyrics is pleased to announce the release of his latest single Needle and Thread.

The song explores the connection between all people and how understanding can bring unity to those that otherwise would face conflict.

“Underneath our different exteriors, we are all connected spiritually,” Gedalya said. “Needle and Thread challenges my listeners to see past what is driving them individually and recognize the similarities that bring us together.”

“Our souls are sewn together with the same needle and thread,” he sings in the chorus in a recognition that the pain and difficulties everyone faces should bring us together instead of tearing people apart.

And he hopes the song can help people achieve that desire.

“Too often, we pursue our needs while viewing the world only through the lens of our personal experiences,” Gedalya said. “But what goes unrecognized is that underneath it all, we are all cut from the same spiritual cloth, and if we accept in our hearts no matter our differences, deep down we share far more than we don’t, we will live more fulfilling and rewarding lives. This song is a recognition and a celebration of what we share.”

The song also fits into the mission of A New Song USA, a not-for-profit organization that promotes music with a positive message. The organization was founded by Gedalya, who serves as director alongside his musical performances and recording.

“With A New Song USA, I want to encourage artists and fans to find the most rewarding parts of their lives and share them with others,” Gedalya said. “The music we promote is a way to do precisely that.”

For more about Gedalya, visit gedalyasings.com.
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A common theme in Jewish thought is that the purpose of the darkness is only to realize the light. So too when it comes to freedom, sometimes it takes a war to remember how important it is to have peace. The Holocaust was incomprehensible event in Jewish and World history, and nothing can be given back to replace the loss that occurred. After the war the State of Israel began and is continuing to grow. My song The Promised Land is about my own personal longing to be back home. Only good things, Gedalya more

Singer-songwriter Gedalya reflects on holiday season with new single, The Lesson of the Flame

Dec. 1, 2020 (New York) – Just in time for Hanukkah, Folk-rock singer-songwriter Gedalya has released “The Lesson of the Flame,” a musical reflection of the need for positive spirituality during difficult situations.

“Finding ways to get through hardship is central to religion,” Gedalya said. “And I wanted this song to reflect the powerful combination of faith and positivity.

“It’s my first time writing a holiday song, or even writing a song directly about Judaism, for that matter,” he said. “Even though I wrote the song with the holiday season in mind, it’s about more than just the annual celebration. I wanted to convey the power in continuity and history. This Hanukkah many of us are experiencing a year of tragedies, but by learning from tradition and remaining faithful we can find better times. I tried to reflect that in ‘The Lesson of the Flame.’”

The song speaks directly to the power of positivity, especially during times of tribulation.

“Finding yourself can be a challenge, especially when times are difficult,” Gedalya said. “This year especially I have seen so many struggle with what is happening in the world. I wanted to make sure they heard a positive message for the holiday, but also I wanted anyone that hears the song to feel – deep down – that their situation can also get better. Now is the time to look inward to find the strength to make it to those better times.”

While the song reflects Gedalya’s faith, he said its spiritual message is universal.

“I wanted ‘The Lesson of the Flame’ to speak directly to the listener’s soul,” he said. “But the message of the song is not inherent to a particular faith; rather it speaks to a state of being. It’s a frame of mind that brings light to the dark and the blessings of that kind of a life are tremendous.”

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As a young boy I was quiet and shy. I gravitated to doing things I could do on my own, without being a part of a group. Writing poetry was something that I enjoyed and felt real with. I also liked trying to say something with meaning that made sense while using rhymes and being a bit creative.
I didn't begin to put music to my words until I was around eighteen. One of my first songs, If I Were Superman really sums up where my head was at as a teen.
When I was twenty-one I drove to NYC from Florida with my first demo tape and began my career in music.
As I grew as a writer and performer I also took time to travel the world.
While on my journey I became an observant Jew. I've seen both sides in my life, the secular and the religious world while maintaining my identity and ability to understand both sides.
I seek to give a bit of insight, inspiration and guidance through my music. Now I'm fifty and still doing what I love to do, learning about life, writing songs and sharing my message.
I'm hoping to build a good relationship with my fans and to share interesting ideas and positive vibes.

Wishing you and yours only good things, Gedalya more