Voos is Neias

Lipa and avraham World tour

Jewish music stars Avraham Fried and Lipa Schmeltzer will be hitting up the shores of South America for a series of concerts this fall.

Coming off of a fun filled summer season of spectacular Jewish music concerts all over the world, a new electrifying tour begins this fall with two of the undisputed legends of Jewish music,Avraham Fried and Lipa Schmeltzer.

Both residents of New York, the two will be traveling to the shores of South America, accompanied by the extraordinary "Freilach Band" also of New York.

This will be a historic tour featuring the two biggest names in Jewish music, concert producer Yaron Levy of Pearl Productions said. "We've been preparing for this for months now. We are extremely excited to put into place many of the exciting plans that will ensure the highest caliber concert during this tour." 

The two stars will be performing a number shows around South America, dates and locations to be announced.

(credit: collive.com)

the Event of the Year! This Chol hamoad - Grab your tickets

Leiby Forever Released!

Buy the Music Video here

http://itunes.apple.com/us/music-video/leiby-forever/id456098173

Buy the CD here

http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/lipa-schmeltzer/id456098174

Leiby Forever - Coming 8.11.11

Lipa 24/6!! In stores now or at jzing.com

IN dedication Of famous Singer Yoely Greenfeld's Mother A"H

Chanukkah 2010 at Chabad

LIPA hopes to be this Chanukah in Los Angeles, Australia, Lakewood, and some friends and family events. And not to forget on party for my wife and kids , happy Chanukah!! Get delighted in every way

Happy Chanukkah!

new "kosher" dance - Featuring LIPA songs

Kosherica and Lipa

Lipa In Israel

Look What they have to say... 


Lipa and the Torah, Right before Leaving israel

In Israel

Article in Bikhala

What "bikhala" has to say about lipa

Even Hapina for Airmont Shul

The Week of July 29 2010

Lipa sends a heartfelt Mazel Tov to Michoel Schnitzler who just married off his ben yochid, his youngest child, to Yocheved Cohen - the daughter of Lipa's cousin Mattis and his wife Chumi Cohen.

The wedding was phenomenal! Everyone who's anyone joined in the simcha. Lipa was mechubad with the first 2 brochos, and the renowned chazzan R' Yankel Ungar, a cousin of the kallah, sang throughout the chupah. Lipa then gave a heartwarming drasha, after which he soulfully sang 'Im Eshkochech.'
 
The seuda was beautiful. Moshe Kastenbaum, world famous one-man-band, made the wedding one to remember - along with master musicians Yoeli Brach, Moishe Fried, Yossi Farkas and Yanky Katina. Their music burned up the dance floor.

As a wonderful surprise for his family and guests, R' Michoel Schnitzler himself brought in the chosson and kallah, singing the first dance with a simcha that electrified everyone in the room. He was succeeded by the sensational Shimmy Engel, then by a rocking Yumi Lowy. Next, Lipa took the crowd by storm with 'Hora Yes, Loshon Hora No.' Lipa's a hard act to follow, but the terrific singer Levy Yitzchok Folkowitz didn't disappoint. Master vocalist Sruli Green rounded off a night of delirious dancing and a smashing celebration.

But the night hadn't ended yet. Lipa made a beautiful mitzvah tanz, which you're sure to find video clips of all over the Net. He was accompanied with resonant harmony by star badchan Velvy Feldman who also added rip-roaring jokes - and by the acclaimed singer Berri Weber. Shloime Daskal also popped in and added his voice to the fray.  Like I said, everyone who's anyone! Also spotted were Ari Teitelbaum from Negina, Gershy Moskowitz from Teem productions, Shloime Reichberg from Mekimi and Avrumi Schreiber from Freilach Orchestra, just to mention a few.

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In the middle of Schnitzler's wedding, Lipa left to sing at the chasuna of the Nickelsburger Rebbe's son. There, he belted out a brand new, heartwarming song composed specifically for this special occasion.


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In other news, Lipa was in Antwerp for the big Finkelstein and Gordon wedding, and Yoeli Jacobowitz wined and dined him like a king. He went straight from the airport to 'Tikvateinu' - an organization that helps sick children - to perform for the kids. Yoeli Lebowitz joined him in being mesameach their young audience. The wedding was mind-boggling. The band was flown in from Israel together with Yishai Lapidot, and they gave 'rhythm' a whole new meaning.

On the way home, Lipa went right from the airport to a show in Tannersville. Thanks to JJ Fried and Kosher Mountain Grocery for tzeidah l'derech! From Tannersville, he went directly to Oorah to sing for the camp - but not before he snatched a bite from the grill at JJ and Shaindy Fried's residence. It was a long and tiring journey. Baruch Hashem, Lipa's busy running from wedding to wedding here in the States, making his special magic at the microphone.
 
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Another Mazel Tov shout-out goes to Shloime Toussig for releasing his new hit single, produced by Ruli Ezrachi and composed by Yitzchok Fuchs. It's already getting rave reviews!

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On Thursday, Lipa  attended JRunners.org. in the mountains. look out for full news by the end of this week.

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The Yomim Noraim are not far away - it's time for everyone to start davening for a happy, healthy year! This coming Sukkos, iy'H Lipa is planning to stage 'Fried Mit Lipa 2' in NY, followed by a show in Eretz Yisroel.
 
Final update for today: Meimka D'lipa continues to sell like mad! Lipa just released new bumper stickers, which you'll soon be seeing all over the place. Look out for 'Hora Yes, Loshon Hora No' or 'Ah Git Vort' to accessorize vehicles throughout the tri-state area and beyond. If you've got four wheels, you need to get one of these! (First to receive these limited edition stickers are those who attend JRunners.)

Enjoy what's left of the summer, and stay tuned!

English Translation For A Git Vort (13)

A Kind Word
English Translation: Chaya Sara Schlussel

A kind word, lei, lei A kind word, lei, lei When you walk into the place you work, or into your house You greet your boss, you meet your employee. Uncle, brother, sister, father, mother or spouse Everyone appreciates courtesy. You see someone laughing, want to borrow his smile Cause inside, maybe feelings are bitter Lift his mood and your mood too will rise by a mile One kind word can make the world glitter. Chorus: If you laugh or you cry Makes no difference how or why Your emotions can be stirred Every man of flesh and bone Needs to hear a kind word If you're stressed, you're distressed, Still, a kind word you addressed It is felt when it is heard And it will always be remembered: a kind word. A Yid somehow feels stronger His confidence lives longer Because your kind word gets stuck to his soul Another's thoughts are suicidal You convince him life is vital With a single word you've made him whole. A Chidah on the Sedra, a joke or a quip Don't ever be too stingy on laughter Make sure to say something nice to someone you meet A compliment you give today can last forever after You can bring the gift of joy whenever you greet. Chorus: If you laugh or you cry Makes no difference how or why Your emotions can be stirred Every man of flesh and bone Needs to hear a kind word If you're stressed, you're distressed, Still, a kind word you addressed It is felt when it is heard And it will always be remembered: a kind word. Beware of an unkind word, a verbal attack. It ruins friends and neighbors, it breaks family ties. Remember once it's spoken, you cannot take it back. Upon a loving word every relationship lies. Chorus If you laugh or you cry Makes no difference how or why Your emotions can be stirred Every man of flesh and bone Needs to hear a kind word If you're stressed, you're distressed, Still, a kind word you addressed It is felt when it is heard And it will always be remembered: a kind word.

English Translation for Voos Tit Dir Vei? (Track 10)

What's Bothering You?
English Translation: Chaya Sara Schlussel

I've had no chance to rest, I'm in Shul as a guest. To lead Lecha Dodi would've been my request. I'm offended 'cuz my name they didn't suggest. Another is sent for Lechu Neranena My hurt is controlled, I am somewhat consoled For "Shochen Ad" I'll no doubt be enrolled I'll go up and daven as soon as I'm told. I'm 'dan l'kaf zchus' - they don't realize I'm new. I fooled myself waiting And anticipating. To get no aliyah is just irritating. I'd give this beis medrash a terrible rating- Just look how they welcome a wandering Jew! For Mussaf, quite rightly, They'll send me politely - But no, they do not even glace my way slightly. There's no chance that I will be taking this lightly. It's Rosh Chodesh, the gabbai skips 'Atah Yitzarta.' I yell "Nu!" I yell "Nu!" I'm the first one to yell "Nu!" How I wish I could cry. I would tell you how badly I'm hurting inside Instead of just "Nu." I'm insulted, in pain, it's no wonder I shouted. I yell long and loud, 'cause my judgment is clouded. Is 'Atah Yitzarta' on my mind? I doubt it. But I keep repeating "Nu! Nu!" before every word. Shlishi went to Fishy, And Zishi had Shishi. This chutzpah is making my heart sore and squishy. Not to the amud, not even Chamishi. Nu, what should I do now? I wanted my voice to be heard. So I yell "Nu!" I yell "Nu!" I'm the first one to yell "Nu!" How I wish I could cry. I would tell you how badly I'm hurting inside Instead of just "Nu." ----------------------------------------- On the streets, people mill Near R' Shlumke from Zvill - Then someone insults the great Rebbe at will. The Rebbe gives money, a valuable bill, Away to the Yid, so his heart may be still. The gabbai's surprised But the Rebbe advised, "That Yid's suffering has to be recognized. He's feeling much pain, haven't you realized? The emptiness in him, my gift may help fill." When he yells "Nu!" When he yells "Nu!" When he yells "Nu! Nu! Nu!" How I wish I could cry. I would tell you how badly I'm hurting inside Instead of just "Nu." ----------------------------------- The whole shul is packed, the Baal Koreh is reading. So many mispallelim praying and pleading When suddenly someone calls out in demand - "Nu, R' Yid, don't you know, by this part you must stand!" The Yid gets embarrassed, he thinks with a sob, 'I'm sitting at home for three years with no job. Yet no one yells "Nu!" no one hears my heart throb. Only now do you see me sitting, and turn like a mob. Now you yell "Nu!" and you yell "Nu!" and you yell "Nu! Nu! Nu!" How I wish I could cry. I realize how you must be hurting inside - Instead of just "Nu."

review on premiere 05/13/10

We all knew we were in for a treat with Lipa's pre-release premiere concert. I mean, who ever heard of a JM show featuring a 16-song lineup of totally new material? What we didn't know was that we'd be treated to an in-depth look at the depth of Lipa's heart, as he belted out one blockbuster after another! The night was full of surprises - which comes as no surprise, since it's a Lipa production after all. A desk and two silver couches graced the stage, with all-time favorite show host Country Yossi conducting the chitchat between Lipa and various composers and songwriters who participated in the cd. There was something for everyone in this production. Whether you go for ultra-modern techno style songs, folksy klezmer pieces, or high-flying horas, Lipa gave it all he's got - and he got it right. To quickly recap: the evening started off with a splash. The song titled 'Splash' was originally brought to life by both Lipa and Avraham Fried - and last night, it soaked the audience with excitement. We got to see a video clip of these two musical geniuses discussing their incredible composition. Once that finished, we couldn't wait for more. Next came 'Choson Domeh L'Melech,' a rousing piece that kept the crowd clapping, tapping and snapping in tandem. The signature song Meimka D'Lipa, which is on the cd both in Yiddish and English as two separate tracks, really showcased Lipa's heart. The unique arrangements in 'Mi Chochom' had us spellbound, and 'The Language of Music' taught us a vital lesson about unity: Though we may speak using different words and different dialects, the language of music is universally understood. A truly original sound was produced for 'Melech Malchei Hamelachim,' and Lipa gave us a feel for his childhood (along with Yossi Green) in 'Ich Hub Gechapt.' By 'Mizmor Lesoda,' Lipa really burned the stage - kicking up his heels, and kicking up the tempo by a coupla notches. 'V'anpaha Nehirin' appropriately set the tone of kedushas Shabbos. One of my personal favorites was 'Vus Tit Dir Vei,' a song that had everyone shouting 'NUuuu!' We got to hear from MBD via video about the making of 'Ayei,' before rocking and rolling along with its catchy beat. The poignant song 'Chayim' was dedicated to R' Chaim Laks, a'h and written by his son Moishe. Lipa sat amid yahrtzeit candles, and sang about tzaddikim who never really leave us - for even in death, they are called Chayim. Next we were greeted with 'A Git Vort' from Lipa, who emphasized the importance of speaking kindly to others. Another definite chart-topper is 'Hora Yes, Loshon Hora No' - which, without speaking about others, pretty much speaks for itself. And an absolute favorite of mine, 'Acharon Acharon Choviv,' marked the end of the show with Lipa pouring out his heart through its lyrics. All in all, the event had a very personal, warm feel to it. It wasn't stiff and formal, but more like a group of friends and fellow artists, just sitting around and shooting the breeze about this extraordinary new album. We got to speak mano-a-mano with songwriters and celebrities like Yitzchok Landau, Shauli Grossman, Michoel Schnitzler, and Yossi Green. They discussed what it was like to take part in this cd, their experiences working with Lipa, and how they made it all come together. Country Yossi added plenty of his laid-back, good-humored shtick, we all relaxed and enjoyed a most pleasant evening. Are you wondering if the cd is any good? Well, I can tell you this much. As soon as the show was over, people started pushing, shoving and shtipping one another, just to get their hands on a copy. I'd say the albums were going like hotcakes, but I've never seen hotcakes fly off the shelves the way 'Meimka D'Lipa' did. If you couldn't be part of the audience on May 13, you'd better line up well in advance on the 16th, to grab a piece of Lipa's heart.

English Translation for The Language Of Music (5)

The Language Of Music
English Translation by Chaya Sara Schlussel.

I travel far for kiruv To lands we rarely hear of To many foreign places With unfamiliar faces It's hard communicating, Every word translating, 'Cause the language I don't know; Guess I'll pack my bags and go. Then, a sudden revelation - A musical inspiration! The notes I express, The buttons I press, And I quickly impress With a symphony This is recognized And internalized Deep in the heart, with clarity Americans And Taiwanese Mexicans And Japanese Brazilians And Portuguese All in unity The language of harmony Is one that shines so brilliantly When the trombones With overtones, And microphones Make music and song Neshomos yearning Start returning To Hashem, before long For our nation Exhilaration A CD sensation Brings elation And celebration A standing ovation It's never enough - for a music buff! So from now on, when I travel Though my words may all unravel, When I try to help a Jewish soul Find the path that will make him whole If his language is unknown I bring a language of my own; Because the music I impart Is spoken to him from my heart. Major, minor, scales; With feeling, song prevails. Amplifier Lower, higher, Solo, choir - No matter how you do it; The song will connect Whenever you inject Emotion into it. Look and see Take it from me Sing musically With harmony On count of three You're bound to be Uplifting him with spirit Because at every age Song is all the rage Whether old or young It rolls off the tongue Just as soon as it's sung, It has merit. It works to awaken Those who are shaken Or who have forsaken, their King. So pure is its sound, So rich and profound, Its rhythms abound And its tenors astound For its source can be found Deep inside, all around The walls of my heart, when I sing. Make the choice To raise your voice And just rejoice With chords of noise Cause song destroys All evil ploys And brings neshamos back. It's got the knack It'll never slack Where words may lack - That perfect music track.

LIPA CD

3 Days from my new hit CD you can Pre-order by clicking this link

 this link

Neias

AN UPDATE FOR LIPA

Just in: The fifth song for Lipa’s new CD, which is coming out on May 16, is already mixed and ready. And the plans for Lipa on Chol Hamoed Pesach have just been finalized. Lipa with Suki and Ding Productions will be going around with Bello to several places. You can view the schedule by clicking the link below:
General Schedule
Monsey
Brooklyn
Far Rockaway

Also a big Mazel Tov to my friend Shloime Mermelstein on the birth of his new baby girl. And of course a mazel to Zalmy Gelbman on his unbelievable wedding, and to Chaim Strasser upon his upcoming wedding on Sunday. Also Mazel Tov to the entire Moskowitz family upon Yossie’s aufrif. And last but not least to my great friend the song writer and gramer Motti Ilowitz upon the birth of his new baby girl this week.

View the ad for Der Yid below:

Brand new off the press!

Mazel Tov to Shloime Gertner on his new baby girl! May he and his wife have much nachas! And congratulations to Michoel Schnitzler – i watched his DVD that is coming out now in the studio while they were making the final touches. Wow! Great DVD! It was something not yet ever done in the Heimishe community. Michoel Schnitzler on a whole new level!

The brand new Lipa CD is heavy in works. Its coming out less then 4 months! We are really looking forward to the release date of May 16!!!

Lipa did an AWESOME performance at the one and only HASC concert last week. We bring you the belated article and pictures below (sorry the delay):

Article By: Yossi Zweig
Photography by: Stan Weiss

Can you imagine? An organization like HASC has had 23 annual concerts?? There is nothing like this in the whole Jewish world. How would you kick off a 23rd concert? By bringing two of the biggest Jewish music stars around today Avraham Fried & Lipa, that’s how! You bring back Yisroel Lamm, Dedi and musicians that have played this show for years. Nachum Segal, the M.C. of the evening, welcomed us to Avery Fischer Hall for HASC XXIII.



The concert, a Suki & Ding production, with music by the Neginah Orchestra, and maestro Yisroel Lamm began with a 2 part Overture. Two parts you might ask? Yes, two parts. Part one consisted of famous songs from the performers of the evening played by the orchestra and accompanied by the Simcha Ensemble lead by Shloime Kaufman. Part two however, was very different. It consisted of some past HASC melodies played “country style”. There was Paul Wheil on the violin, Steve Bill on banjo and whistler Jim Hynes. The crowd loved the new flavor of this piece arranged by Yisroel Lamm. It was like fond memories, with a little twist.

Nachum Segal came on stage and announced the main act of the evening, Lipa & Avremel. From nowhere, the 6 Flags theme song came on and someone dressed like the Six Flags old man dancer was on stage dancing. Then, a clone of the first man joined him. Way up, almost on the ceiling, another was dancing his way down a rope, while being lowered onto the stage, and the three of them proceeded to dance. When the number was up, the first was revealed to be Avremel, the second Lipa, but who was the third? It definitely wasn’t Dedi. It was Bello the clown from the Greatest Show on Earth. That was quite an entrance.



Bello exited the stage and Avremel and Lipa jumped right into their first number with some great classics such as Emes Ma Nehedar/Mareh Kohen.



After a great big welcome to HASC XXIII the only way to welcome an audience of this caliber was to sing Fried’s Boruch Haba.Now we were getting down to business. Lipa walked off stage and Avremel began to tell of the song composed by R’ Yom Tov Ehrlich called “The Torah” about the Malach Hashem sent out to ask the nations if they want the torah. Avremel sang this song on his first Yiddish album and it is a gorgeous song. As he got to the part of the Malach approaching the nation of Russia and asking them if they wanted the Torah, Lipa entered from stage right dressed for the Russian winter and told Fried, “Nain”, they don’t want the torah. That is exactly how the rest of the song was performed. Avremel acted the part of the Malach and Lipa as the nations.



It was spectacular and the oil am really enjoyed it. After talking about the Yidden accepting the Torah, what better song to transition into than Lipa’s very own Torah Shebiksav together with Avremel.

Fried told us that the day of the concert is the Baal Hatanya’s yahrtzeit and in his honor we should sing some famous Lubavitch songs. Of course two or three of the songs were niggunim so I can’t tell you what they were called, but in addition to those niggunim he sang Uforatzta, Didan Notzach, We Want Moshiach Now, and what better way to finish than Hopp Kossack. Everyone was singing along as they all knew these songs. It set a very spiritual tone for the evening.

Nachum Segal invited the chairman and awardees to receive their awards and tell of their experiences with the HASC organization and camps. Abie Eisner, Chairman, introduced Senator Charles Schumer, who accepted an award and in turn introduced Speaker Sheldon Silver. There were some big hitters in the house and I don’t just mean Lipa & Avremel. Speaker Silver said towards the end of his speech how proud he is to share the stage with Lipa and Avraham Fried. Everyone had a good laugh.

Now it was time for Lipa to shine. He had the stage all to himself and performed three songs that were introduced especially for HASC over the last few years. Gelt, Abi M’leibt, and of course the world famous Lipa Diet had the audience “eating” it up.It was time to get serious. This year we, the Jewish people and HASC, lost three people close to our hearts. Izzy Taubenfeld of Sameach Music, Chezky Ehrenfeld and Aliza Shull. In their memory Avremel sang a heartrending rendition of Gam Ki Eilech with the Simcha Ensemble lead by Shloime Kaufman. By the time the last few chords faded away there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.Avremel walked around the stage when he saw a makeshift bed with covers over someone’s head. He started to say, “Lipa, Get Up! Wake up already”. He asked the crowd to join in, and soon everyone was chanting, “ Lipa, Lipa”. Then, a hand slowly appeared followed by a head. Wait! It was not Lipa, but Dedi. “What am I, chopped liver?” Dedi asked. With a big laugh Dedi asked Yisroel Lamm in his signature way “Yisrael, give me music!” Kulanu K’echad started up. There is just something about Dedi and his charisma that brings joy to people and has thousands of people singing in their seats “Ouuu Ouuu Ouuu”. Dedi asked the band to tone it down a bit when the audience was singing with him Kulanu K’echad Yachad. All I can say is that there is NO ONE like Dedi.Lipa was back and I guess after the nap back stage he needed to “Wake Up”. With a few new rhymes here and there the crowd was awake and wanted more. Lipa exited the stage and Avremel entered.

Avremel told a story of when Pavarotti was performing at Avery Fischer Hall.Pavarotti sang The L-rd Is My Sheperd after the applause quieted down up in the balcony a Alter Yid stands up and begins singing: Mizmor Ldovid, Hashm Roie Lo Echsor, and soon the entire audience is in tears. After the concert Pavorroti tracks down this Yid and asks him “Whats you secret?? How did you get the entire crowd to cry?”
The yid answers, “Mr. Pavorroti, you know the Psalm, but I know the Sheperd”. Avremel then started one of my all-time favorite and amazing Fried songs, Tattenyu.

Lipa joined Avremel on stage and asked why he couldn’t sing something more upbeat. “Oldies are good, but people want to feel happy and we need something that has a beat.” Fried responded, “How about this?” He began with sings Netzor Leshoincha. Lipa responded, “You need something with a little… hmmm how about this? If I were a rich man… Everyone was laughing and Lipa/Fried then went through various oldies but goodies like; Tradition, Recession, Matchmaker, Aishes Chayil, Sunrise, Sunset and finally To Life, L’chaim.

Lipa asked for his “brother” Dedi to join him and Avremel on stage. They announced that they were going to sing a set of some very popular songs of today, from popular singers like Yaakov Shwekey & MBD.



This next set was amazing! Yossi Green’s Anovim , Yonatan Razel’s Vhei Sheomda, and MBD’s Kulom Ahuvim completed the set. Avery Fischer Hall was on its feet clapping and singing. We are talking about some major hits of today and that were performed by these three HUGE super star performers.

Now at that point we were asking ourselves, “How do you top that? I am sure the show is over”. We were so wrong.

Lipa invited composer and singer, Reb Yitzchak Fuchs, the composer of Hallelu to come on stage and join him.



If you have never before heard or seen Yitzchak Fuchs like a lot of people that night, you were in for a surprise. Imagine if you can, a man in his 50’s with a long white beard and long flowing peiyos strumming on a guitar with his head swaying to and fro, that is Fuchs. Yitzchak didn’t open his eyes. He just swayed and strummed until his turn to sing approached. Then, this deep melodious voice emerged and people just sat there spellbound. That is Yitzchak Fuchs. Add to that the incredible arrangements of Mendy Hershkowitz (Freilach Orchestra) with Yisroel Lamm and the Neginah Orchestra and you might get the picture. When they were done the audience got up and wanted more, but that was all they were getting.

Next, was a cute video shot in a Bank where Lipa wanted money. He met Uncle Moishy on the way in and the bank teller was Fried. Lipa said he needed money to pay his bill and Fried said he needed ID. Avremel finally told him that he should raise his hand to the Father in heaven and ask for help! A warning appeared on the video, “RAISING YOUR HANDS IN A BANK IS NOT A GOOD IDEA!” The video cut away to Lipa performing Hentalach around the world, which was originally sung on the Oorah CD.

The night was winding down, and a HASC concert could not be a HASC concert without a video of camp HASC. Avremel composed a song to go to the video called “Changing the World One Smile At a Time”, which he performed live. It was a beautiful song and of course the video was very emotional.

Nachum Segal announced that it was time for the finale.



How do you end a Lipa/Fried HASC concert? Avremel’s Sisu, Lipa’s Raboisai, Dedi’s V’kovei, Fried’s Matzliach, Lipa’s Shelo Osani Goy, and finally the hope of Chazak.



The entire hall left with smiles and humming the HASC anthem to dim the lights. As we all left Avery Fischer Hall on January 10th, 2010, we were all looking forward to HASC XXIIII in Yerushalayim. For more information on HASC and their programs please plus more photos and updates visit www.hasc.net.

Yossi Zweig of Jewish Insights put together a great article on the YU Chanukah concert this past Thursday night, and great pictures were provided by Stan Weiss. Please read on:

This concert was as they say “off the hook”. The opening act was the winners of YU’s “Battle of the Bands” the group is called Out Of Exile and its lead singer Raphi “HeBro” Fulcher happens to be a African American Jew. I heard from friends that they really got the crowd riled up and were a great way to kick off the concert. Aryeh Kunstler was a guest performer playing with the band and they performed together 2 original songs PLUS Aryeh’s Modeh Ani.

Yehuda Green just has this special charisma, I honestly can’t say more. He is so genuine and pure that it all shows in his music and performance. Top that off with him inviting the other 2 acts to join him on stage each to do a song with him, it was spellbinding and the crowd loved every minute of it.Ohad has a most amazing voice. The notes he hit and the clearness of his voice just drew you in. When people say that the voice is a instrument, well Ohad has been tuning his instruments for year and its at its peak. He sang Boiee Kallah for those single boys and girls out there and we loved to hear his voice dip and cascade.



When Lipa makes an entrance, he MAKES AN ENTRANCE. People in the crowd were already chanting Lipa and requesting songs but with his charisma and well performance you can’t help but smile. Dressed in his signature neon blue “beketche” with gold Chinese characters, you just get this magical feeling that something good is going to happen.









Did I mention the spectacular band of the evening? A Show of “Achdus” brought the famed Freilach Orchestra straight from their performance with Lipa in Miami the previous night together with the Neginah Orchestra Brass section blowing people away with their powerful music. Lipa lighting the candles while making jokes of not wearing his “Shtreimel” because of minhag hamukoim had the place laughing.



After a quick intermission the concert began anew with Dovid Dachs who has already been making waves in the music world, especially with his performance in Ohel’s 5770 concert weeks earlier. The crowd could not get over the range and control of his specular voice. He then surprised his father by calling him onstage to join him singing “Hamalach” off of Shloime’s debut album.

Ohad wasn’t done with YU yet. He took us on a trip through the world when he started singing songs in other languages that he learned when he traveled and performed in places far and wide. He just always surprises, his voice height, learning different languages and just friendly demeanor just put the crowd to ease and love him.

Lipa then appears in what looked like to be a corduroy jacket and beige vest - a “YU” uniform if you will.





It seems that people can NOT get enough of Lipa and he had more to give. Believe it or not Lipa was doing a little stand up comedy. That’s right telling jokes about dating and his own personal experiences as being a shadchan and the place was rolling. Lipa performed a “poshiter yid” all in ENGLISH, who know he could do that? Two more songs then of course Hentelech joing on stage by Dovid Dachs dressed in one of Lipa’s costumes.





All in all it was a great evening; the show was captivating and the crowd left very happy.

Last nights amazing show at Gulfstream South Florida was amazing. Here are some pics presented by Baruch Ezagui:

After Lipa’s stellar performances in Brazil, Toronto, Chicago, and Florida, what's with New York?! Well, tonight will be the grand Chanukah show in Yeshiva University with Lipa, Yehuda Green, and Ohad. Don’t miss out on the Y.U. Chanuka concert tonight – its gonna be one of the best shows of the year! See you there!

This past Monday night, Hannah Sacks Bais Yaakov, in conjunction with Xclusive Productions, presented: A CHICAGO CHANUKAH CONCERT starring LIPA SCHMELTZER, Shua Kessin and Shea Rubenstein. Music was orchestrated and conducted by Yisroel Lamm.

Shua, Lipa, and Yanky Katina in Limo on the way to Chicago

The Following Pictures of Lipa in Chicago are presented by Ozer Babad:

You may view the latest post at http://www.TheJewishInsights.com/wp/?p=3550

Today Lipa performs in Florida! Don't miss it!

Lipa's performance last week in Toronto for NCSY with Freilach Orchestra and Yisroel Williger was a smashing success! The production was professionally organized by Avraham Zamist, Yumi Shechter, and Berny. Here are some pictures from Toronto:

Lipa will be in Chicago tonight with Yisroel Lamm, Shua Kessin, and Shea Rubinstein for an awesome performance arrange by Ozer Babad for Bais Yaakov of Chicago.

Wednesday Lipa will be in South Florida – see flyer below


Over 10,000 are expected to attend the 30th annual south Florida Chassidic Chanukah Festival, which will include performances from popular Jewish music star Lipa Schmeltzer and the Kenyan Safari Acrobats. The L.E.C. Choir will perform and music by the YBO Orchestra.The Festival will be preceded by a 100 Menorah Car Parade, beginning at Chabad’s Regional Headquarters in Miami Beach, and culminating at the Festival in Gulfstream.For more Chanukah Festival information, to reserve VIP or box seats, or to become a Festival Sponsor, please call 954-458-1877, email ltchabad@ gmail.com, or log on to Chabadsouthbroward.com or visit COLlive

And on Thursday Lipa will be back in New York at the Y.U. Concert with Yehuda Green and Ohad.

A Freilichen Chanuka!

Pictures from LIPA & YOSEF CHAIM in Brazil!

Coming Soon: Ohel 5770 ON DVD, CD and Digital Download

Lipa will be making a trip to Eretz Yisrae soon.

And don’t forget the Toronto concert on Monday!

Stay updated with Lipa's upcoming concert schedule:

Lipa in Brazil
Lipa will be travelling to Brazil this week for 2 shows there

A Chicago Chanukah Concert

For tickets please visit www.JewishEventTickets.com

Lipa Y.U. Chanukah Concert

For tickets please visit www.JewishEventTickets.com
Produced by: Avram Zamist

Lipa in the HASC XXIII Concert

For tickets please visit https://www.hasc.net/concert/tickets.php

NCSY Canada annual concert & dinner featuring Lipa Schmeltzer with Yisroel Williger and the Eitz Chaim Boys Choir, ABD and Yoni Stern.
Music by Nafshenu & Zemer Orchestras.

Monday December 7th, 2009 at the Toronto Center for the Arts.
Separate & family seating available. Call: 905-761-6279 or visit NCSY.ca
Click here to view the latest post.

Neias Archives

OHEL BENEFIT CONCERT REVIEW

Last night, the lucky 1,000 people in the audience at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall experienced an evening of true originality and inspiration. Never before in the history of the Jewish concert stage has there been such a seamless synthesis of music, film, story, dramatic staging, humor, and a memorable message.

Featuring performances by Lipa Shmeltzer, Ohad, and Abie Rotenberg, the concert was produced by A Dove and Kol Rom Multimedia, and was the collaboration of talented professionals utilizing collective experience in the fields of music, theater, video and film production, and original scripting and lyrics. Musical director Shai Bachaer led the musicians of the Shloime Dachs orchestra.





Norman Gildin of OHEL was the executive producer.

With huge stars like Lipa, Abie, and Ohad, you might expect a solid, loud concert with all the effects. Instead it was a very intimate evening with these talented individuals using their songs to inspire us in these troubling times. Alice Tully Hall is not a huge concert venue, but last night it was a place where everyone could see the stage and the performers sang like they were there just for you.

The integrated film, produced and directed by Chananya (CJ) Kramer of Kol Rom Multimedia, was shot on location in multiple states as well as in Israel.Upon entering the landmark theater – the audience knew immediately they were in for something special. Production designer and concert director Bernie Dove created a raised multi-leveled platform stage, which was an impressive, internally lit construction allowing the orchestra to be featured on stage throughout the show with singers performing on the platforms all around and above them. A custom built backdrop encased the three video screens.

As opposed to standard concerts, nothing about the evening was random. Every song, scene and segment was coordinated to propel the story, and the singers’ performances were intrinsic to that framework.

The show began with “Open Your Heart”, an original theme song composed by concert producer Avram Zamist with lyrics by script and screenplay writer Malka Leah Josephs. The song featured Abie Rotenberg on video, packing his car and singing about going to New York for the Ohel concert. We then cut to Ohad in Israel, singing in Hebrew and English about his excitement for traveling to Manhattan to perform, and suddenly, Ohad and Abie each appeared on stage live to finish out the song. Back on the video screen, Lipa is seen choosing his brightest bekeshe as he sings about this show that’s “all new, it’s a chiddush…hope they understand my Yiddish!” and then he too appeared on the stage’s highest platform, overcoat on and multicolored costumes in tow. He then descended into the audience to pull out “Bernie Kaufman” (played by actor Dan Brody), who becomes the central character of the evening.

Now on stage, Bernie tells the audience that it all started the day he was sent on a business trip to Israel by his boss: Elly Kleinman of Americare. (A major sponsor of the event). The audience’s attention then shifts from the stage up to the large video screens where we see Bernie navigating a very stressful workday. In this first segment of the film, we learn that Bernie is struggling to balance work with family responsibilities, and that he has a special needs son with whom he has trouble connecting. Fielding numerous tasks and a surprise visit from the boss, Bernie gets a call from his son but gets distracted, winds up leaving him on hold, and never finishes the conversation. Bernie’s over-eager assistant suggests that he “take up some Tai Chi,” and advises his overworked boss to “Stop- don’t think about it, ‘cuz tomorrow is a brand new day.” In an attempt to drown out his assistant’s too-cheerful admonitions, Bernie slowly turns up the volume on the Nachum Segal radio show wherein the audience hears the voice of - and then sees Nachum Segal himself in his studio, “broadcasting” his introduction to that very same hit song. In seamless transition, the music is then picked up by Ohad - now singing “Stop!” in full spotlight on the stage.

And so the night continued, shifting from musical number to film and back again with the live Bernie character appearing on stage at various intervals to interact directly with the singers. At no point was there a song that did not fit smoothly into the framework of the show. As Bernie meets more characters along his journey to Israel - and toward his own new and improved self, the videos segue directly into more musical numbers or medlies on the stage, each time in a new and suprising way. Songs such as Abie's classic Hamalach Hagoel, Ohad's soaring Boee Kallah, and Lipa's popular Hentelach to name a few, each not only fit into the story- but clearly enhanced and elevated the powerful message within the story. An idealistic yeshiva student sharing a taxi ride with Bernie inspired a Torah themed medly from Abie (accompanied by the young but very talented Dovid Dachs) and Lipa;



A comic scene with an Israeli hotel check-in clerk who tries to convince Bernie of the merits of giving joy to a bride and groom getting married that night left the audience in stiches and segued into the upbeat wedding themed “Binyan Adai Ad” by Lipa; and a poignant scene in the airport coffe shop shared with a Holocaust survivor led directly into a pre-intermission Emuna themed medly by all three performers. At that point, without exception, every one of the “hentelach” in the audience was raised in time to the music as the crowd, engulfed in colorful lighting, enthusiastically responded to the beat and the uplifting message of belief.

And if it wasn't enough for this select audience to be treated to an integrated evening of professional quality film, live orchestra and top singers, they also enjoyed a number of surprising cameo perfomences including Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Rabbi Paysach Krohn.

In an artistic highlight of the evening, Bernie is seen on stage, his back to the audience in a dreamy trance-like state while swirling lights engulf him. Emerging slowly from a hidden space deep within the platforms of the stage set, Lipa begins his stirring song: “Chalom Chalamti”. With the help of a violinist (the talented Jonathan Keren), Lipa encircles Bernie until the song comes to a close and it is time for Bernie to “Wake Up”! This song becomes an opportunity for Bernie to wake-up to the fact that his life needs some re-prioritizing. Bernie wonders how he can find the time to do all the different things demanded of him, and Abie reminds him that “there is a time for everything… Lakol Zman Voes”.

In a final dramatic scene at the hotel, Bernie meets an old friend, Baruch, who he hasn’t seen since Yeshiva days. The friend opens up to him about his own special needs son who has been helped by Ohel and is having a bar mitzvah the next day at the Kotel. Bernie is moved as his story because it hits home. He says he wishes he could be more like Baruch, but then takes Baruch’s message to heart: “You don’t need to be more like me, Bernie, You need to be more like you.”

Music to Lipa’s “Poshiter Yid” starts up on video and is continued live. Lipa then performed his well known “Poshiter Yid”, but this time he sang it with all new original lyrics that emphasized the themes of Bernie’s journey.





As the film is re-capped with clips of each character on screen, the song reminded the audience of the messages of Torah from the Yeshiva student, Tefillah from Rabbi Krohn, Emunah from The old man, and reaching your own true potential by being the best “Poshiter Yid” that you can be from Baruch the old friend. Lipa ended this dramatic number with a message to Bernie that he is ready to rise to the challenge of becoming his better self.

With the opening stirring sounds of Lipa’s “Hashiveinu”, we see Bernie on film at the Kotel at night, crying out to Hashem in prayer. We hear his voice telling his young son that “things will be different from now on. I’m making some changes. I love you.” Bernie is then seen the next morning at the Kotel joining his old friend Baruch at Baruch’s sons bar mitzvah. There, he is reunited with the old man and the yeshiva student. As the music reaches its crescendo, all of the characters dance together at the Kotel in unity and simcha.

Abie took the stage to sing “Shema Koleinu” while beautiful images of each of the characters in Yerushalayim were seen on the screens above. The professionally filmed footage brought the characters to life –literally - as one by one as the actors from the film were revealed in spots live on the stage ending with Bernie himself.

In commemoration of his fifteenth yartzheit, all of the cast and singers joined together in a tribute to the great Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, Z”l, by singing “Am Yisroel Chai”, and the show ended with a final chorus of the original theme song “Open Your Heart, Let the Music Inspire”.

As the credits rolled, funny outtakes from the film were shown on the side screens giving insight into the magnitude of the creating of such a production. In response to the audience, still clapping and not leaving, the singers came back on stage for one final curtain call/chorus of the night’s theme.

Thank you OHEL – you have taken Jewish concerts to new heights with a night of truly unique and meaningful quality entertainment!

Photos by: Baruch Ezagui

Listen to Lipa's interview with Nuchem Segal on JM in the AM.Click the link below to listen. You will need Real Player to stream the file.

 Listen to Lipa on JM in the AM

Wow! Lipa really injected us with a dose of simchas Yom Tov this Chol Hamoed. First he dazzled in Disneyland, then he brought a bit of Mickey-like magic back with him to Brooklyn, for the most talked about, buzzed about, blogged about show ever - the Fried Mit Lipa concert!

In Southern California, Lipa sang beneath the stars in a Sheya Mendlowitz production of rip-roaring fun and spectacular entertainment, benefiting the world-renowned organization, Chai Lifeline. Yisroel Lamm flew in from NY to flawlessly orchestrate the music for that Pure Tiyulim event, which totally raised the bar on kosher vacationing overall. Special thanks to Tim and Lauren for helping to make it all happen! Lipa performed before and after the famous Disney fireworks - and no doubt about it, he made the bigger bang!

If you missed the Fried Mit Lipa concert here in Brooklyn College, you missed out on an event that that will surely go down in history as one of the best JM concerts of all time. Two incredible talents shared a single stage for more than 2 1/2 hours of mind-blowing music. I've been to many concerts, with many headline performers - but this one brought out the very best in each of them. Fried's one-in-a-million voice combined with Lipa's boundless energy and unmatched showmanship created something extraordinary. Lipa gave his modern, fresh interpretation to Fried's fabulous lineup of songs - while Avremel lent his depth and richness to Lipa's popular hit tracks. And from the first moment right through the finale, the momentum in the room never let up.

All throughout the show, the two megastars bantered and joked with each other with easy, unaffected friendship. Their mutual respect for one another was obvious, and enjoyable to witness!

Their sequences from one song into another were brilliantly thought out. "Wake Up" flowed right into "Modeh Ani," with Lipa literally jumping out of a snooze in a swivel chair, and springing like a human slinky across the stage. Reb Elimelech's "Aderaba" segued seamlessly into Reb Zishe's "Hashiveini," and "Gelt" morphed into "Adom Doeg al Domov." It just made sense!

The slow segments like "Ah Sukkalah Ah Kleine," which Lipa sang with touching toichen and hartz, and "Aleh Katan," which Fried belted out with pure emotion, really touched a chord with the audience. We were treated to so many fast-paced numbers like "Hesech Hadas" "Matzliach," "Binyan Adei Ad" (replete with bongo drum-dancing and signature Lipa-rap) that the crowd went wild with the sheer joy of it all. At the end, even though security tried to intervene, it was almost impossible to keep the bopping, bouncing, deliriously dancing crowd in their seats.

Yosef Chaim Shwekey and the Shira Choir added immensely to the show's stunning success. Many people also deserve special thanks for making this incredible performance possible: Yanky Katina, Yossi Frankel, Avrumi Schreiber and Mendy - to name just a few. The event was produced by Nuta Waidenbaum, who did a spectacular job on every aspect of the night's entertainment. And thanx to Avi for taking care of all the tickets!