Matisyahu's new EP is not only a departure from his usual sound, but the meaning behind the songs could not come at a more pertinent time. The 44-year-old Pennsylvania-born musician burst onto the scene almost 20 years ago with his breakout hit "King Without A Crown." What sets Matisyahu apart is his identity as a practicing Hasidic Jew—an unusual presence in the mainstream music world, especially in hip hop and reggae. Over the years, he has shed some of his more Orthodox beliefs but remains deeply connected to his faith, which continues to influence his music, including his forthcoming EP, Hold The Fire.
In a recent interview with Newsweek, Matisyahu explained that the theme of his five-track EP centers on "stamina" in the face of adversity. This theme is represented in his new music through the metaphor of fire, with "the flame which engulfs you" looking different for everyone. For Matisyahu, his challenges have included battling anger, drugs, isolation, alcohol, reevaluating his faith, a marriage breakdown, and the more recent impacts of the October 7 attacks by Hamas in Israel.
He elaborated that "it's the idea of water and fire creating balance" and how this metaphor appears in his music. The concept of "a fire that doesn’t consume itself" signifies the need for personal balance, and on a broader scale, it represents the continuation of the Jewish people, emphasizing the importance of not letting their fire go out while still respecting others. The theme for the Afro Pop EP came to him in a dream, leading him to realize that "life is an ongoing process." After the COVID lockdowns, he felt a renewed desire to "ignite the flame" and rediscover his passion for music.
Biography of Matisyahu
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Matisyahu |
| Birth Date | June 30, 1979 |
| Birth Place | West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Genres | Reggae, Hip Hop, Rock |
| Notable Works | "King Without A Crown," "Hold The Fire" |
| Years Active | 2000 - Present |
The Impact of Current Events on Matisyahu's Music
Matisyahu's music has taken on newfound significance in light of recent global events, particularly the ongoing conflicts in Israel and Gaza. He expresses that his new EP, Hold The Fire, and its lead singles, "Fireproof" and "End of the World," resonate with heightened meaning in today's context. After a performance just days after the tragic October 7 attacks, Matisyahu felt a profound change, as if "there had been some kind of shift."
He is vocal about his desire for peace and the necessary actions to combat terrorism. He stated, "I would like to see any terrorist, Hamas, or person who believes Israel has no right to exist...I would like Israel to destroy those people." His vision includes a future where Jews can return to their ancestral homelands and practice their faith freely, emphasizing the need for unity and a stand against evil.
As Matisyahu prepares for a 34-date tour of the U.S. starting January 31, he aims to share his new sounds while maintaining the authenticity his fans have come to love. His journey, marked by personal struggles and a commitment to his faith, continues to inspire those who have followed him throughout his career.
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