If you had told me years ago that I would one day be performing folk-rock music in prisons across America, I probably would have smiled and dismissed the idea as far-fetched. Yet here I am, an Orthodox Jewish rabbi, strumming my guitar and singing my heart out for incarcerated individuals in some of the most unexpected venues. My journey from the synagogue to the slammer has been both surprising and profoundly fulfilling, and I’d like to share how it all came to be.

Bridging the Gap: Performing in Non-Denominational Spaces
One of the biggest challenges I faced as an Orthodox rabbi and musician was finding a way to share my music with a diverse audience while staying true to my identity. The solution came when I began performing in non-denominational spaces, where the focus was on the music itself rather than the religious context from which it emerged.
These performances were transformative for me. They allowed me to connect with audiences who might not have been familiar with Jewish traditions or beliefs but who could still appreciate the spiritual essence of my songs. In these settings, my music transcended religious boundaries, becoming a bridge between different cultures, beliefs, and experiences.

The First Steps into Prisons
My journey into prison performances began somewhat unexpectedly. I was invited to perform at a correctional facility as part of a broader initiative to bring positive, uplifting experiences to incarcerated individuals. Initially, I was unsure how my music, with its spiritual undertones, would be received in such a stark and challenging environment.
But as soon as I began to play, any doubts I had were quickly dispelled. The response from the inmates was overwhelming. They embraced the music with open hearts, finding solace and inspiration in the melodies and messages I shared. It was a powerful reminder that music is a universal language, capable of reaching people regardless of their circumstances.

Building A New Song USA
I originally founded A New Song to inspire all artists to use their art for good. Only after the success of that first prison performance did I begin to expand our mission to bringing hope and healing to incarcerated individuals, and many other facilities through music. The name reflects our mission: to offer a new song, a new perspective, and a message of redemption to those who need it most.
Through A New Song USA, I’ve had the privilege of performing in prisons across the country, from New York to Florida. Each performance is unique, but the common thread is the connection I feel with the inmates. Despite the differences in our backgrounds and life experiences, the music creates a bond that transcends the walls of the prison.

The Impact of Music Behind Bars
Performing in prisons has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. There’s a rawness and authenticity in these settings that’s unlike anything I’ve encountered in other venues. The inmates, often facing immense personal challenges, are deeply receptive to the music. For many, it’s a rare opportunity to escape, even if just for a moment, from the harsh realities of their situation.
The feedback I’ve received from these performances has been incredibly moving. Inmates have told me that the music gives them hope, reminding them of better times and inspiring them to look forward to the future. These moments reaffirm my belief in the power of music to bring about positive change, even in the most unlikely places.