Episode 11 | Eli Schwebel | Thank You For the Music

About the Guest: Eli Schwebel is a Brooklyn-based recording artist and producer with deep roots in Jewish music. He played a key role in revitalizing Jewish Acappella and introduced a pop-rock sound that redefined traditional Jewish music. His solo album, Hearts Mind, is considered groundbreaking in the genre. Eli has performed at prestigious venues like Avery Fisher Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and The Jerusalem Theater, and recently had sold-out shows at Joe's Pub and David Geffen Hall. He has shared the stage with prominent artists such as Mordechai Ben David, Matisyahu, and Avraham Fried, and has performed with D'veykus and The Rabbi's Sons. Coming from a rich musical lineage, Eli is the son of renowned tenor Rivie Schwebel and the grandson of celebrated Chazan Aaron Schwebel and mezzo-soprano Florence Wassner. About the podcast: Dive into the Heart of Jewish Music with Mendy Portnoy: Where Music and Soul Collide. Imagine a young boy, one of nine children, captivated by the melodies of Shabbat prayers. In his mind, the cantor's voice wasn't alone; it soared alongside a full orchestra, transforming the synagogue into a concert hall. That boy, Mendy Portnoy, grew up to become a world-class producer, shaping the very soundscape of Jewish music with TYH Music and Farbrengable Studios. Now, Mendy invites you on a unique journey – not just through hit songs, but into the lives and minds of the people who create them. Join Mendy as he sits down with iconic voices, from soulful singers to talented songwriters and industry insiders. Each episode unveils the stories behind the music, delving into the joys and challenges of the music world, and the individual spark each guest brings to their craft. Peek behind the curtain and discover the fascinating people who shape the music that moves our Jewish community. But Mendy's podcast goes beyond celebrity interviews. Growing up in a vibrant family led by an orchestra conductor-turned-Rabbi, music was always woven into Mendy's experience of Judaism. This podcast is his quest to understand the very essence of "Jewish music" – its origins, influences, and what it means to those who create and embrace it. Whether you're a music aficionado, curious about the industry, or seeking a deeper connection to the melodies that touch your soul, Mendy Portnoy's podcast is your invitation to listen, learn, and be inspired. Join him on this exploration of where music and soul collide, and discover the vibrant heart of Jewish music. Follow WIJM on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/whatisjewishmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Follow Eli Schwebel on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/elischwebel?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Eli Schwebel - Original Music https://www.elischwebel.com/music 00:00 intro 00:34 Who is Eli Schwebel 02:13 childhood 03:25 musical dynasty 06:35 Growing up with music 07:45 music and tefilah 09:35 MBD’s impact on Jewish music 12:10 We music vs. I music 22:03 Reflecting and receiving greatness 23:58 Giving and accepting critique 28:57 Mordy Shapiro is underrated 31:53 it’s time for Abie to pick up the guitar 33:50 Abie Rotenburg’s personal influence 36:23 Making music a “real” thing 39:55 starting Lev Tahor 42:40 First Jewish Accapella group 44:05 In the shadow of your father 46:00 Finding your own musical identity 51:00 Some people love music 55:05 What do you do? what do you love? 56:00 PARDES in songwriting 01:01:23 You will guide God 01:04:10 Playing piano is an experience of God 01:07:09 What is Jewish music? 01:11:45 You cannot eat while listening to music 01:13:00 Let's do a part 2 01:13:45 Thank You Hashem