New Maccabeats Video! D'ror Yikra - Cups.

Finally, a new Maccabeats video featuring the Shabbos song D'ror Yikra to the tune from "Cups."

 

Shalsheles & The Maccabeats - Lemaan Achai - Brand New Song!

Shalsheles was one of my favorite, if not my favorite, Jewish music groups/artists when I was in high school. The Maccabeats are one of my current favorite Jewish music groups. Now, they've come together to perform a song together!

The song IS A Capella, so for anyone who listens to vocal only music during the 3 weeks, enjoy!

What Would Rabbi Akiva Do? Reflections On Yom Ha'Atzma'ut 5773

Chag Sameach everyone!

Image courtesy of myjewishlearning.com

After reading the brilliant piece from Rabbi Rakeffet-Rothkoff from this year's Yom Ha'atzma'ut to Go from YUTorah.org that discusses the Rav's hashkafic evolution into a Religious Zionist, and listening to a shiur given during shul that had nothing to do with Yom Ha'atzma'ut, but rather the restrictions of Sefirah due to the deaths of Rabbi Akiva's students, I have been inspired to write.

I grew up largely ignorant of Yom Ha'atzma'ut, especially regarding any religious significance the day may or may not have. After my experiences in Israel, and then at Yeshiva University, I came to have a growing appreciation for the 5th of Iyar as not merely a political commemoration, akin to the 4th of July here in America, but as a day with valid religious meaning.

My current shul does not recognize Yom Ha'atma'ut at all. Yom Ha'atzma'ut was celebrated there many decades ago under a different congregational rabbi, who happened to have received semicha from YU's rabbinical school, RIETS and was a very ardent Zionist. Hence, my new found connection to the holiday feels a bit stifled without the proud and public religious atmosphere that I experienced in Israel and at YU.

While the current rabbi was speaking about the restrictions during Sefiriah, emphasizing the tragic deaths of Rabbi Akiva's students he specifically mentioned the prohibition of listening to live music, as well as recorded music - and even (per his opinion) A Capella as well. I began to recall the YU chagiga and the afternoon concert that is held every year on this day - and my mind ruminated on the idea of "What would Rabbi Akiva do?"

It is an interesting question that had not occurred to me before, but I think that it bears some significance regarding how we can, or should approach the celebration of Yom Ha'atzma'ut as a joyous religious holiday, even in the midst of mourning customs of Sefirah.

Rabbi Akiva was an optimist and a fervent lover of the Land of Israel.

We know he was very involved in the Bar Kochba revolt, initially believing in the messianic fervor that gripped many, giving hope to the possibility of a final redemption and the rebuilding of the land and the Beis Hamikdash. Some even suggest that the deaths of his students were not due to a plague per se, but because they were actively involved in the rebellion as soldiers serving under Bar Kochba and hence his defeat lead to many deaths, including theirs.

We also know the fairly famous story from Makkot 24b wherein Rabbi Akiva was walking with Rabban Gamliel, Rabbi Elazar ben Azaryah, and Rabbi Yehoshua near Mount Scopus and saw the devastation of Har Habayit, followed by a fox running out from the former location of the Kodesh Kodashim

While his colleagues cried at the latter sight, Rabbi Akiva laughed. They only saw the destruction and were overwhelmed with sadness. Rabbi Akiva saw the fulfillment of a prophecy regarding the plowing over of Har Habayit, which gave him hope that yet more prophecy would be fulfilled, namely, the rebuilding and repopulation of Yerushalayim.

If Rabbi Akiva, who could look at such ruin, and see amid the ashes a glimmer of the promised future yet to come, then if he were alive today and saw the founding of the modern State of Israel, and what it has achieved in its mere 65 years of existence, he would not only smile and laugh, but I imagine sing and dance as well.

In spite of the State of Israel's imperfections - and they do exist - so much good, so much Torah learned, so much mitzvah observance and so many people reaffirming their Jewish identities the world over has happened because we now have our homeland in Jewish hands once again.

While it is absolutely worthwhile to learn the lessons from the tragedy of Rabbi Akiva's students, it is also absolutely worthwhile to step back and celebrate the lessons we have learned - and continue to learn - from having the State of Israel in our lives.

May Rabbi Akiva's words of comfort become true soon, and we will have the full realization of the rebuilding of Israel and the Beis Hamikdash!

YU-Connects To-Go 5773 - Divrei Torah About Dating and Marriage

After a delay due to hurricane Sandy, the YUConnects along with Yeshiva University's Center for the Jewish Future have published a collection of Divrei Torah and professional insights about dating and marriage that are authored by numerous well-respected Roshei Yeshiva, rabbeim, teachers, doctors and professionals.

I am a big of the To-Go booklets of Divrei Torah, and always make sure a batch gets delivered to our shul. If you're lucky, your congregation will have these available shortly, but if they run out or happened to not have ordered any, all the articles are available online to download for free. 

Here are the various different articles and their authors:

• Divrei Bracha from Rabbi Hershel Schachter
• Rabbi Kenneth Brander - "Foreword"
• Dr. Efrat Sobolofsky - "Introduction"
• Rabbi Michael Taubes - "Is there a Mitzvah to Arrange Shidduchim?"
• Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky - "Rejoice Beloved Friends"
• Mrs. Mindy Eisenman - "Communication in Relationships in Tanach: A Paradigm for Others"
• Rabbi Chaim Eisenstein - "The Ultimate Connection: Developing the Necessary Tools for a True Lasting Connection in Your Marriage"
• Rabbi Akiva and Chaya Sima Koenigsberg - "Matchmaking Fees and Beyond"
• Rabbi Ari Sytner - "Our Words: Helpful or Hurtful? Ona'at Devarim in the Singles Community"
• Rabbi Dovid Cohen - "Dating or Waiting: When Am I Ready?"
• Dr. Chani Maybruch - "Essentials to Look for in a Spouse"
• Shana Yocheved Schacter, CSW - "Relationships that Work: Introspection and Expectations"
• Rabbi Dr. Jonathan Schwartz - "Seeking Mr./Mrs. "Perfect": Denying Mr./Mrs. "Right""
• Dr. Sara Barris - "Deepening your Relationship: Dating and Beyond"
• Mrs. Marjorie Glatt, J.D. - "Let's Get Practical! Top Tips for Increasing Matches in Your Community"
• Dr. Nicole Schreiber-Agus, Estie Rose & Chani Wiesman Berliant - "Frequently Asked Questions about Genetic Testing"
• Rabbi Dr. Eddie Reichman - "The Mandate of Genetic Testing"
• Dr. Efrat Sobolofsky - "Points to Ponder: Positive Action Items"

Enjoy! I hope the insights contained in these Divrei Torah and articles will inspire daters and shadchanim alike.

Another Maccabeats Marriage Update

My last post on the subject of the marriage availability of the members of the Maccabeats was this past January, with a new image that was subsequently updated in February - and is now outdated.

The updated graphic, as well as its original version, are the most (and basically only) downloaded files from my blog. I wanted to set the record straight so people, probably eager female fans, will stop downloading the  old picture.

Not only have several Maccabeats gotten married, there is also a NEW Maccabeat (and former Y-Stud) who has joined the group.

Click to enlarge.

The Members of The Maccabeats

Also, We will now have a separate availability graphic for the members of Standfour.

The members of StandFour

So for all those girls and potential mothers-in-law out there hoping for a Maccabeat Marriage - time is running out! 

...Unless there are more new (single) Maccabeats added in the future.

New Maccabeats Chanukah Video / Original Song - "Shine"

The Maccabeats have taken things to the next level as they release their newest song/video "Shine," their very first original song. Known for the past two years as one of the best, some may argue the best, Jewish A Capella and Parody groups out there, I welcome this change and think they've done a great job. Same Maccabeats quality, professionalism and where appropriate, humor, all wrapped up in a new, catchy song that we've never heard performed before. I like the use of continuity with "Miracle" and the reappearance of the Greeks from "Candlelight."


"Shine" can be purchased online at CDBaby

I hope this is just the beginning of their original releases, and they have much continued blessing and success in reaching out to the world and providing inspiration for us all.

For those who are wondering what the deal is with the "break off" group StandFour, these four former Maccabeats now have lives that are too busy to allow them to travel across the country, or to Australia, as readily as their fellow singers. However, even though they won't be touring, they still want to produce quality, engaging Jewish music and videos, hence StandFour.

I say the more Jewish Music out there, the merrier, and   look forward to what both The Maccabeats and Standfour will create in the future.

Maccabeats Gangnam Style!?

Sort of... and it's still hilarious.


I can't wait to see their REAL new video - their first original song.

Maccabeats Rosh Hashana Greetings

While not quite a full-fledged music video, the Maccabeats just released a video greeting card, wishing everyone a Shana Tova.

I think it's cute. The new official logo is rather spiffy, I must say.

I am also encouraged by the forthcoming great projects that are "in the works" for 5773, as stated in the description of the video. Sounds very exciting.

I look forward to their next video, whenever or for whichever holiday it may occur.

Lipa Schmeltzer's New Song/Video - "Mizrach"

While not Rosh Hashana related, Lipa has released a new music video for his song "Mizrach," which is dedicated to the Nachal Chareidi. It promotes unity among all the different groups within the Jewish People, which is always a noble goal, especially now around the Yomim Nora'im.

Ever since I first met/saw Lipa perform live at the 2nd YU-Nite Shabbaton in Stamford, Connecticut, I knew  he was different from other performers out there from more right-wing backgrounds. After hearing him speak very positively about YU during the shabbaton as well as during his YU Chanukah performance, I became convinced that he is meant to be someone who uses his popularity and talent to greatly benefit the Jewish People.

See Lipa singing that if he could do things over, he'd go to YU.

Instead of merely created new engaging, inspiring and enjoyable music, he has become a personality for positive growth and unity - something we all need to focus on a little bit more these days, especially this time of the year.

I wish him much success, not only in his musical career, but in reaching out to Jews across the spectrum of Hashkafos and levels of religious observance - helping to bring us all a littler closer together.

A Taste Of Things To Come

This past Shabbos, I was learning the sefer Imrei Baruch by Rav Baruch Simon, a Rosh Yeshiva at YU, and wanted to share two pieces that I found there that are related to the period of the 3 Weeks and Tisha B'Av.

The Gemara in the tractate of Ta’anis (30B) says that anyone who mourns for Yerushalayim will merit to see it in its rejoicing, and one who does not mourn for Yerushalayim will not see its rejoicing. The Maharal in the 23^rd chapter of his work, Netach Yisrael explains this Gemara. He writes that one who knows he is lacking something in his life can look forward to something that will complete his existence, but someone who feels as though his life is already complete cannot feel a sense of longing for anything. Thus, according to the Gemara, one who actively mourns for Yerushalayim has cultivated within himself a vacant space that will be filled with the joy of Yerushalayim’s rebuilding. By contrast, one who believes that life is great the way it is has no ability to appreciate a future that has been completed by the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash, and thus cannot experience it.

Rav Simon adds that it appears as though Hashem is acting toward the person in a midah k’neged midah (measure for measure) fashion. Someone who considers Yerushalayim important enough in their hearts to realize he is incomplete without the city and Temple standing in their grandeur will merit to have that hole in his life filled by the comfort of the city’s rejoicing. By contrast, one who believes his existence his full and perfect without Yerushalayim are excluded, since he feels there is nothing missing in his life.

The Chasam Sofer elaborates on a very interesting concept related to this tradition that one who mourns for Yerushalayim will merit to see it be comforted. He notes that the word “to see” is written in present, not future tense, as one might expect. The reason is due to the wholly different nature of our mourning for Yerushalayim, when compared to other nations’ response to past tragedies. For other nations in the world who take time to remember tragic events in their history, there is a sense of total loss, of remembering what is no longer here and gone forever. This is not so by the Jewish people and our mourning for Yerushalayim. As we know from the story of Yaakov and Yosef’s sale, Yaakov would not be comforted despite his children’s best efforts. There, Rashi explains that this was because the natural order created by Hashem is that a person should gradually find solace and begin to forget the intense pain of a true loss of life as time goes by, a phenomenon which does not exist for someone who is missing but still alive and could return. So too is it with our mourning for Yerushalayim. While we are saddened by its absence in our lives, we know, deep down, that one day (hopefully soon) Moshiach will come and we will once again be able to experience the spiritual splendor of the Beis Hamikdash, just as we did in times of old.

This year, Tisha B’Av falls out on Shabbos, which means the observance of the fast itself will be pushed off until Motzei Shabbos and Sunday. When I first realized this, I thought that for once the Jewish people would be observing the opinion of Rabbi Yochanan, who says that had he been there when the fast day was established, he would have made it on the 10^th of Av, since the majority of the Beis Hamikdash burned then and only started to burn on the 9^th. However, it still didn’t quite sit well with me that I’d be spending the actual day of Tisha B’Av enjoying Shabbos, eating foods, singing zemiros, and spending time with friends and family.

Then it hit me.

We are all aware of the idea that Tisha B’Av is called a “moed” or holiday, based on the verse in Eicha 1:15. Based on this, we don’t say tachanun during the day, and the rabbis tell us that in the future, Tisha B’Av will actually become a day of celebration once the Beis Hamikdash is rebuilt. This, of course, means that the day will be transformed from one of sitting on the floor, fasting, refraining from greeting one another to a day of dancing, feasting and rejoicing.

This year, due to the structure of our calendar, we are privileged to have a taste of things to come. We will be able to experience Tisha B’Av as it is meant to be experienced, not as a day of mourning but as one of celebration. True, we must not let this idea go to our heads and cause us to forget the fact of the matter that the Beis Hamikdash is not yet rebuilt, but I hope we can utilize this opportunity to prepare our minds for the great change that will occur with Moshaich’s arrival.

Hopefully, this year’s observance of Shabbos on Tisha B’Av will prepare us all for the true celebration and happiness we will experience next year with the coming of Moshiach and the rebuilding of the 3^rd and final Beis Hamikdash!

Yom Yerushalayim 5772

Yom Yerushalayim Sameach!

I spent most of last night after Shabbos and this morning putting together a slideshow/video presentation for our local JCC, featuring pictures taken by local residents during their trips to visit Yerushalayim and the Kotel.

While going through my old collection of pictures from my time in yeshiva, I couldn't help but feel an immense pride and gratitude swelling up within me - as well as a strong desire to go back as soon as I can (grad school permitting).

Our shul doesn't really commemorate the holiday, but I'm wearing a white shirt today and stepped out into the hall during tachanun to say Hallel to myself. Even if I couldn't enjoy the beautiful singing I have experienced at YU and in Israel, I had to do something to commemorate the occasion for myself in a meaningful, spiritual fashion.

ASoG and I also read Rabbi Norman Lamm's drashos found in the back of his newest book "Majesty and Mystery" - dedicated primarily to Megillas Esther, but also containing several speeches he gave related to other holidays of praise and thanksgiving to HaShem. The selection printed about Yom Yerushalayim were written in 1967 as the events actually transpired - and the reader can follow Rabbi Lamm's personal and congregational spiritual journey form one Shabbos to the next as the war begins and then ends. It's a fascinating read, and I highly recommend anyone to go out and buy the sefer to read these - and then use it next Purim, too!

Anyway, I wanted to share with you guys an incredible video I found on Youtube, filmed during the actual re-taking of Har Habayis in 1967. I'm awestruck watching it...

Please check out my posts from previous years, including an incredible story told by President Richard Joel and a sicha by Rav Meir Goldvicht.

Chag Sameach!

PS - for anyone who is friends with Shlomo Katz on Facebook, he has uploaded an incredible recording of him leading Hallel this morning at Rav Kook's house.

Still Continuing The Fight Against Evil...

After several months of nothing, the guys behind The Mighty Morphin' YU Rangers have uploaded another trailer for their upcoming video Kamen Rider RIETS.



This one is pretty cinematic in overall quality. I also think the plot is something a lot of us YU students can relate to. Well, kind of :)

I hope they don't take too long to finish the video!

Y-Studs Music Video!

Just in time before Lag B'Omer, the Y-Studs have released their first music video for their hit song "Ahavat Yisrael" otherwise known as "Baneshama."



It's a fun and somewhat silly video, and a great start to their musical career.

What do you guys think?

The Final Stretch - Support The Y-Studs!

As of this posting, the fund raising for the Y-Studs' first album, "Take Me Home" has 57 hours left to raise the necessary $2,000 to print physical CDs.

The exciting part is that they're almost there!

At present time, they've raised $1,812, and thus only need 19 people to buy the mp3 version at $10 a download. If you at all interested in these guys, attend/support Yeshiva University, enjoy Jewish Music or need a new and non-Maccabeat A Capella album for Sefira (sorry YBC), make a donation and make their CD happen!

Tell all your friends!

Click here for their Kickstarter fund-raising page.

For more info, see my previous post.

Listen To The Maccabeats' New Album Now!

Maccabeat-Mania is almost here!

This morning, several members of The Maccabeats appeared on JM in the AM to promote their new album "Out of the Box." The interview, album preview, and live performance starts around the 2 hour mark.

In addition, tickets are still available for the concert tomorrow night at 7:00 PM in Yeshiva University's Lamport Auditorium.

For those who haven't purchased their tickets yet, there is a special discount via JM in the AM if you type in "JMAM25" for 25% off discount when you purchase your tickets.

As I mentioned before, I unfortunately cannot attend, but if any reader wants to cover it for the blog, please send me an email (address on the side bar to your right).

But the real reason you probably clicked on this post is this bit of fun news: the full album itself is now available for your listening pleasure for free on Spotify!

I hope to do an album review at some point in the near future.

Lastly, a hearty Mazal Tov to Mordy Prus, the latest member of The Maccabeats to get engaged!

That means there are only 5 of the 14 members still available. A little known trivia fact, Mordy was the most searched by name Maccabeat that lead readers to this humble little blog. And yes, I will update the image some time soon when I get a free moment.

Hatzlacha guys, and keep inspiring us all!

Maccabeats "Out of the Box" Preview Video

The Maccabeats have released a video that previews their new CD "Out of the Box" in addition to drumming up some publicity for the CD debut concert, which will take place next week on March 28th:

Some of my predicted (Jewish music) songs are sample here, as well as one Hebrew song I didn't recognize and several secular songs as well. So far it sounds great, and I can't wait to get the actual CD in my hands - and playing in my car.

Tickets for the concert are still available for purchased at this website.

Unfortunately, I will be unable to go because of grad school demands on my time. If anyone who will be attending wants to write a guest post/review of the concert, please email me.

As a bonus, here are the several members of the Maccabeats singing "Keep Your Head Up" by Andy Grammer, which will be featured on "Out of the Box."

Maccabeats 2nd Album Release Concert!

Just saw this on Facebook, posted by a member of the Maccabeats:

Maccabeats CD Launch Concert

Wed. Mar 28, 2012 at 7:00pm

See a bigger version of the jacket art for "Out of the Box" here.

Join us as Lamport Auditorium will be packed to capacity on March 28th for the highly anticipated release of the Maccabeats new CD.

The group released its first album, Voices from the Heights, in March 2010. In November, they released "Candlelight", a Hanukkah-themed single. The song garnered international attention and became a YouTube sensation, receiving over 7 million hits.

The Maccabeats will be launching their new CD, "Out of the Box" at a concert at Yeshiva University. The CD boasts an array of 11 new songs and arrangements.

The Maccabeats have performed at venues all across the world, from The White House to Hong Kong (and everywhere in between.)

Be the first to hear these new songs.

Tickets can be purchased at this website.

This is very exciting! The title of the Maccabeats second, highly anticipated album will be "Out of the Box." Pretty catchy, but I don't think it tops "Voices from the Heights." Anyway, the title of the album isn't what's really important, it's the songs!

I can't wait to hear the new CD- and see how many, if any, of my predictions for songs to be included were right.

The Queen You Thought You Knew

I always do my best to make an attempt to prepare myself - mentally, emotionally, and spiritually - for any upcoming Jewish holiday. Typically this involves attending shiurim and reading sefarim on topics related to matters of the chag, and this year I chose to read "The Queen You Thought You Knew: Unmasking Esther's Hidden Story" by Rabbi David Fohrman to get myself into the Purim spirit.

While Rabbi Fohrman's book was released last year, I neglected to add it to my Seforim Sale purchases, and thus read other things. But after hearing positive from Chana at Curious Jew and from other sources, I checked it out and bought it at this year's sale.

Here's a dramatic preview video that was featured on Youtube prior to the book's release:

Pretty cool eh?

Overall, I found the Rabbi Fohrman's approach to be very engaging. His style of writing is not one of a typical work of this sort - a commentary/analysis of the events and workings of Megillas Esther. He speaks to the reader, almost as though he were delivering a lecture instead of composing a written text. Some more academic minded individuals might be put off by this stylistic choice, but I think the majority of regular lay readers will find it interesting and thought-provoking.

I enjoyed his "chiddushim" that expanded the political and socio-cultural aspects of what occurred during the the Purim Story. I had heard some of these ideas before from either the Malbim's commentary on Megillas Esther or in a far more in-depth and mind-blowing fashion that I experienced in Rabbi Hayyim Angel's shiur at YU.

Nevertheless, his insights were novel, fresh, and added another dimension to my appreciation of what is contained in Megillas Esther and Purim - which is what I wanted when I decided to buy and read the book.

My one critique, and it is somewhat substantial, is Rabbi Forhman's emphasis on treating the end portion of this book as a teaser for his next book - a sequel of sorts that will explore a particular element of his analysis in a deeper, broader fashion. What was first a mere footnote on p.134 referencing what will be seen in his forthcoming sequel book, expands into a multi-chapter, cross-Tanach examination of Yehuda/Binyamin relationships and a 4-page epilogue that serves as a "preview" of what will be contained in his promised continuation.

Also, the last page of the book with written text advertises "For exclusive bonus material relating to this book, please visit: www.rabbifohrman.com/queenextras." I attempted to access this material to add to my review, but it turns out the entire website is nonfunctional and merely "coming soon!" I'm not sure if this was supposed to be a further bridge between this book and the next, or merely expanded/cut material that was not in the print version. Either way, it seems like it would be appropriate for Rabbi Forhman to have gotten this material together and made available online almost a year after the initial publication and promise of more.

In the end, I think that "The Queen You Thought You Knew" is a worthwhile read, especially for those interested in understanding the layers of the Purim story. I particularly liked the "Mother Persia" theme that Rabbi Fohrman develops, particularly since I had never heard of it before and it fits so well with the pshat of the text. I wouldn't rank it as more essential than the Malbim's Megillas Esther commentary, which is a must read - but for those who have already read that, those looking for something new and different, and someone who enjoys lecture-style books, "The Queen You Thought You Knew" is certainly worth a look.

For further Purim reading suggestions, check out last year's post.

Maccabeats Marriage Update

Updated Image (as of 12/6/12) can be found here.

A year ago, on January 26th, 2011 I posted a gag picture I whipped up that featured the suddenly famous Maccabeats and identified which were married, engaged, or single.

Aside from the humorous element of appealing to all the Macca-fan-girls out there, I didn't think much of the post at the time. I went about business as usual, wrote a few more posts, and figured life would go on as it had until that point.

Then, a little over a week later the internet suddenly noticed the picture, and I was featured on blogs, Face Book statuses and even the Jerusalem Post's website. This humble little blog was flooded with visitors from all over the world. Talk about unexpected exposure.

In fact, that post continues to be the most visited, most searched (via word and image search), and most linked post I've written in over 2 years of blogging.

While a year has now passed, and people out there continue to in

quire via search engines which members of The Maccabeats are married, some things have changed and that picture is no longer factually accurate. I figure that as long as people still care about knowing this information, I don't want to mislead visitors and have impressionable young ladies pining away for a married or engaged man.

Therefore, I have put together an updated image (which looks pretty nifty, if I do say so) that relates the current marriage statuses of our beloved A Cappella singing sensations (click to enlarge):

IMAGE UPDATED 2-2-12

With OVER half of the 14 guys in The Maccabeats now married or on the way, time is running out for any Jewish girls out there (and their mothers) who dream about Maccabeat zemiros at their Shabbos table.

On a more serious note, I recall hearing that The Maccabeats themselves weren't so happy with the initial post, and I imagine they won't be with this one either. Since the other post exists and cannot be taken back, I have created this new image to properly inform the masses at large who are already looking for this anyway. Sorry guys, if I have further offended you.

More important than the married or single status of The Maccabeats is their continued success at spreading the positive message of Torah Umadda and reaching out to Jews everywhere, religiously observant or not (yet).

I hope they can create more songs, more videos, and more albums (where is that second CD anyway!?) to further enhance our modern Jewish culture, and serve as a positive role models for our community, and the world at large.

P.S. This post will also be in lieu of Jewish Music Fridays because of my grad school work.

Update: From their Facebook status, it seems like their long anticipated 2nd album is almost completed!

Matisyahu To Join Maccabeats, Enroll At YU

While Jewlicious was the first to break the exciting news, Shades of Grey is proud to present an exclusive interview with the Jewish musical performer formerly known as Matisyahu, Mathew Miller, that tells the whole story behind his recent public transformation.

After the shocking revelation of the Twitter pics and accompanying note that brought the frum (religious Orthodox) world to its collective knees, many Jewish fans of Matisyahu can breath a sigh of relief.

Before: Matisyahu. After: Mathew Miller.
Image Source: AV Club.

No, Matisyahu, now Mathew Miller once again, has not gone "off the derech" (or OTD for short).

Nor did he, as Vos Iz Neias? incorrectly reported, use a razor blade to shave his beard - the usage of a straight razor for shaving is forbidden by Jewish law.

"I went out and bought a suitable electric shaver, just like every other observant Jewish man who shaves. I figured it was time for a change. It's clear to me now that my time in the spotlight as a Chassidic reggae/rapper is long past."

Miller attributes partial inspiration to the release of the Maccabeats' latest video, a cover of his marginally popular song/video from last year, "Miracle."

"The response they've generated vastly exceeds everything I had hoped for in my own version of 'Miracle,' especially with the charitable cause they are promoting. Some might want to say it's the unfortunate coincidence that I made the video at the same time 'Candlelight' dropped, but after some healthy self-introspection, I was able to step back and realize that everything is from the yad HaShem (hand of G-d)."

"It's clear as daylight that this has all been hashgacha pratis (divine influence) to guide me toward my new path in life."

Miller, who always dreamed of reaching out to disenfranchised and irreligious Jews in the hopes of bringing them closer to their heritage, claims that he has now realized how he can continue that goal, while remaining a public music figure and continuing to inspire the masses.

"You know, I'd just heard so much about the 'big tent' that [Yeshiva University] President Joel always talks about in his speeches. I began to realize that this was something I'd always yearned for, something that was always at the core of my musical message."

While many listeners initially found Miller's Matisyahu persona, complete with full beard, large velvet yarmulka, peyot (sidelocks) and tzitzit (ritual fringes) inspiring, Miller now thinks that some of these aspects have become a hindrance for attracting the attention of those potentially interested in exploring their Judaism.

"Not every Jew had a beard, and certainly not every Jew wears a velvet yarmulka. In some ways, these have become part of a uniform for a subculture within Judaism that I simply don't want to represent anymore. For a while, I was mislead into thinking that there was only 'one right way' to be Jewish. I now know that this is the farthest possible thing from the truth," Miller remarked poignantly as he adjusted the new knit yarmulka on his head.

In an effort to reconnect to the broader world of Torah-observant Judaism, Miller and his family have moved to Washington Heights, the upper Manhattan Neighborhood that houses Yeshiva University's Wilf Campus, where the male student body as well as the Rabbi Isaac Elachanan Theological Seminary is located.

In addition, Miller has enrolled at Yeshiva University's Philip and Sarah Belz School of Music, hoping to broaden his own appreciation and knowledge of the breadth of traditional Jewish music. He intends to split his time between learning in the new Glueck Beit Midrash, attending a variety of classes at the Belz School of Music, and working on what may be the most exciting development since his recent announcement: singing with the Maccabeats.

Miller, wearing his new Maccabeats outfit, sent Shades of Grey this exclusive photo.

"The Maccabeats have been very gracious to me in giving me the chance to become a part of their mission. I strongly believe in their efforts to spread the message of Torah Umadda (Torah and secular wisdom) to the world, engaging in both Torah study as well as the world at large. It's kind of funny that I was never really able to succinctly describe my 'weltanschauung' as the Rav (Soloveitchick) used to say, but since becoming closer to the guys in the group, I think I've found a new home."

The process of joining Yeshiva University's world famous Modern Orthodox A Capella group led Miller to decide to shave his beard and sidelocks.

"I don't want anyone to think that the Maccabeats have some sort of rigid dress code that required me to shave," Miller said. "Well, besides their white shirts and skinny black ties," he chuckled.

"At first, they told me I was fine just the way I was, without needing to alter my physical appearance one bit. It was entirely my decision to shed the outward expression of my former Chassidic persona."

Miller was very impressed with the Maccabeats' version of his own hit song, "One Day," which was their first music video venture back in 2010. With complete humility, Miller willingly agrees that their video for "Miracle" surpasses his original version.

The Maccabeats' take on "Miracle," which Miller says is better than his original.

"I was always a bit worried about how some people might view the scenes portrayed in 'Miracle.' And honestly, I think it turned out a little wacky in the end. The Maccabeats, along with their amazingly talented friend, Uri Westrich, have certainly elevated the stature of the song by pairing it with a video that is both engaging and meaningful, instead of all the strange X-mas imagery my director forced on me."

Having followed their career with great interest since the release of their "One Day," Miller was very moved by their High-Holidays themed "Book of Good Life." He claims that the message presented in the video moved him to perform a serious soul-searching that led him to where he finds himself today.

"I don't want to be remembered as that rabbi-guy brawling with Santa Claus in an ice-skating rink. I would much rather my legacy be more clean-cut, palatable, and appealing for a wider audience. I still have plenty of ideas and musical dreams, and now I will, G-d willing, be able to achieve them in the right environment and with the right musical group."

The original "Miracle" music video, which Miller now partially regrets.

When asked further about his plans at Yeshiva University, Miller is reluctant to plan too far ahead. He is not currently sure which morning shiur (lecture) he will join, but he is looking forward to becoming involved with the student body, including Rabbi Hershel Reichman's monthly Rosh Chodesh (new Jewish month) get-together, participating in the annual Chanukah Chagigah (celebration), and occasionally serving as prayer-leader at the Friday night Carlebach Minyan (prayer group).

"There are so many opportunities for me to positively influence the lives of students who may be struggling with their connection to Judaism as I have been these past few years. I hope to use my talents and music to inspire and increase the level of spirituality on campus."

There is, however, one thing that Miller already has had to contend with, even though he just relocated to Washington Heights a few days ago.

"President Joel won't stop calling, texting, and emailing me. We met before at last year's Chanukah concert, but now that I'm officially part of the YU community, he keeps asking me to include his trademark 'ennoble and enable' catchphrase in one of my forthcoming songs."

"I keep telling him 'one day,' if he's lucky," he concluded with a smile.