New York - Marking 30th Anniversary, Music Superstar Avraham Fried Asks VIN Readers For Feedback In Exclusive Interview[series 2] |
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News Source: VIN News by Sandy Eller-Yossi Zweig
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Brooklyn, NY - While Avraham Fried has released over thirty albums, in this second segment of the video interview celebrating his thirtieth anniversary in the music business, he recalls his earliest days as a child singer. His first audience, perhaps, was his next door neighbor, the wife of the Alter Rebbe, who used to ask the five year old Avremel to sing for her. He went on to sing on Amudai Shaish, Sdei Chemed and a Suki and Ding wedding album.
It is clear that much has changed in the past thirty years, and Fried describes how Jewish music has evolved over that time, going from the typical Chassidic sound of the 80’s to the vast array of styles that are around today. While Fried seems very comfortable embracing the new sounds and performers that make up the Jewish music scene today, including his nephews, 8th Day and Benny Friedman, he clearly has very strong feeling on the subject of performers using secular music on their albums. Taking a strong stance on a controversial topic, Fried unequivocally states that, in his opinion, attempting to kasher secular music by using Jewish words is wrong and not something he ever plans to do.
While Mordechai Ben David may have been the one to inspire Avraham Fried to become a singer, it is clear that he has found his own niche in Jewish music. Aside from a long list of Moshiach-themed songs, some hopeful and upbeat, some poignant and heartfelt, “pieces” like Tanya and Aderaba are among his biggest hits. Despite his mission to entertain and inspire Klal Yisroel, Fried has a special place in his heart for songs that were made popular by other singers that have clearly inspired him.
In a very rare opportunity, Avraham Fried offers the listening public the chance to shape the future of Jewish music, asking VIN readers to give him feedback so that he has a better idea of what his fans want to hear, promising to read the comments on this post and, if possible, respond to them.
Watch below Part 2
In case you missed Part 1 see here
The final interview segment 3 will be posted tomorrow
Old photos from Freid below
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- a 1988 Good Fortune Magazine featuring Fried, MBD and Sheya Mendlowitz who is credited for bringing Freid to the pulic masess
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- Photo 1997 first Ohel concert produced by Sheya Mendlowitz (from l to r) Avraham Fried, Chanoich Vinderboim, Sheya Mendlowitz, MBD, Yisroel Lamm, Yossi Green, Moshe Laufer, Yeedle
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- Camp gan yisrael the summer of 1980 Fried singing with Sheya Mendlowitz on Drums and Josh Goldberg (clarinet)
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Read Comments (117) — Post Yours »
1
May 03, 2010 at 11:56 AM lol Says:Report as Inappropriate
wife of the alter rebbe? thats definitly not right.
2
May 03, 2010 at 11:59 AM Levi Says:Report as Inappropriate
Wife of the Alter Rebbe? Wow he must be old.
3
May 03, 2010 at 12:00 PM methinx Says:Report as Inappropriate
People may debate who is the greatest Frum singer. As for singer/composers Fried has no equals.
4
May 03, 2010 at 12:08 PM Hoply Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ People may debate who is the greatest Frum singer. As for singer/composers Fried has no equals. ”
FYI Fried is not a composer at all he is a good Singer with a lot of gefil
5
May 03, 2010 at 12:09 PM fried fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avrom I just love ur music/singing, I have every tape/CD you sing on, even just one song, Keep it up.
Can't wait for the next 30 CD.
6
May 03, 2010 at 12:11 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Wife of the Alter Rebbe? Wow he must be old. ”
Why would he be that old...she was niftar only about 40 years ago so by those standards, he is relatively young.
7
May 03, 2010 at 12:14 PM Tanna Kamma Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremel, please bring us back to the good olden days: the Y"T Erlich nigunim, Chabad etc. which have a yiddishe taam. You have an amazing ability to be "mechayeh meisim" these ancient treasures.
Also, can you do some more like the 'zemiros' collection you did with your family, everyone I speak to is stunned by it's beauty & simplicity, we implore you for more!!
8
May 03, 2010 at 12:15 PM my2cents Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear Rw Avrohom;
Thank You for taking a strong stand against mixing foreign influences into our treasured Nigunim. Since you request feedback, I'll take the liberty to quote the Sefer Chreidim, which I believe embodies the essence of what song is meant to do: In the end of Perek 7 he writes
"שאחד מן הענפים היקרים (של מצות אהבת ה'') שבהתלהבת החשק ישיר האוהב שיר ידידות לפניו"...... וכן כתב רשב"י ואהבת דבעי בר נש לאתקשרא בי' ברחימותא דכל פולחנא עילאה דבעי בר נש למפלח לקודשא בריך הוא דיפלח ברחימו דלית לך פולחנא כמו רחימותא דקודשא בריך הוא"
R' Avrohom-Please sing songs that bring us closer to Hashem, songs of חשק and of Deveikus.
Stand strong in the face of those who lack appreciation for the invaluable treasures of our Heritage!
9
May 03, 2010 at 12:21 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
One of my favorites...Hashem gave him an incredible gift.
10
May 03, 2010 at 12:24 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
His first audience, perhaps, was his next door neighbor, the wife of the Alter Rebbe, who used to ask the five year old Avremel to sing for her??????
Not possible.
11
May 03, 2010 at 12:27 PM Fellow Lubavitcher Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremel Thanks to you you have made Chabad Niggunim known to the rest of the world your albums are beautiful. Maybe you can bring back some oldies but goodies I've seen recently you have brought no Jew what about the return, never alone, We Are Ready, kaney leshimcha, Venikeisi, Yedid Nefesh, etc. My favorite album is by far no Jew. there are no words to describe the warmth in your voice.
P.S. you forgot to mention your solo you had on Nichoach vol. #8 vehi sheamda.
May you have much Hatzlacha in your singing and keep leading the way for the jewish music world and bring Moshiach Now!
12
May 03, 2010 at 12:30 PM Pcture # 3??? Says:Report as Inappropriate
Is that picture in CGI Parksville?
15
May 03, 2010 at 12:39 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
ער זינגט מיט הארץ
16
May 03, 2010 at 12:41 PM idea Says:Report as Inappropriate
i would try a new style. i appreciated very much what benny freidman brought to the table.
most Jewish music sounds way too similar.
I truly believe AF could be so much more. I feel he is wasting away such talent. why does matisyahu excel and AF...well stay the same. it's probably /c he doesn't have a manager that can take him to the next level.
17
May 03, 2010 at 12:49 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Why would he be that old...she was niftar only about 40 years ago so by those standards, he is relatively young. ”
he would be old because the alter rebbe lived 200+ years ago.
i think the author refers either to the rebbetzin of the previous rebbe or that of the rebbe
18
May 03, 2010 at 12:51 PM Big Fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear R' Avremel,
May you have continued success gezunterheit un freilicherheit larichas yomim vshonim tovos.
Perhaps you can re-record some oldies some oldies from the first albums. The oldies on your 'Live in Israel' are fantastic as well as the rest of the songs on the album.
Maybe you can record an album with MBD.
Keep us listening, singing and dancing Leolam voed.
A grateful fan
19
May 03, 2010 at 12:53 PM Music Lover Says:Report as Inappropriate
I cant ever get enough of the good old lebediga songs! When listening to Avraham I have to say its always the old albums. They have a special touch about them!
20
May 03, 2010 at 12:55 PM Yossi Says:Report as Inappropriate
The wife of the Freidiker Rebbe is more like it,
Avremal I don't know if it is possible to do better then you already do, you have given
me endless hours of immense enjoyment thank you.
Chazak v'emutz for the next 30 years.
21
May 03, 2010 at 12:55 PM Avi Says:Report as Inappropriate
Not the alter rebbe the friediker rebbe the previuos one which was niftar 1949 so I think
22
May 03, 2010 at 12:55 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
When I have a roughday, I just listen to your singing,
23
May 03, 2010 at 01:01 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ he would be old because the alter rebbe lived 200+ years ago.
i think the author refers either to the rebbetzin of the previous rebbe or that of the rebbe ”
or he maybe means rebitzin chana, the rebbe's mother.she passed away in 1964
24
May 03, 2010 at 01:01 PM Wrong Rebbe Says:Report as Inappropriate
The correct information is the Rebbe ZYA's mother (-1964, Crown Heights) and not the Alter Rebbe's mother (-mid 1700's, Russia).
25
May 03, 2010 at 01:03 PM Yasher Koach Says:Report as Inappropriate
Well if you want my humble opinion, you are doing a great job and I absolutely love your music and energy! Your performances could use a bit more action then getting in a squat position and making a fist with your hand... I think this new shtick of playing with your voice is a bit overused and overdone. Your hebrew songs are beyond words and I wish you'd make many many more hebrew songs. The english songs are also very very nice. You don't have to try to be "cool" on stage - everyone loves the original, real Avremel. Each niggun you sing familiarizes the world with our Rebbes beautiful niggunim, so yasher koach and please continue! And most importantly keep smiling and bringing joy to the world.
26
May 03, 2010 at 01:12 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Why would he be that old...she was niftar only about 40 years ago so by those standards, he is relatively young. ”
Because the Alter Rebbe lived in the 1700's. They meant Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka.
27
May 03, 2010 at 01:15 PM Mr Singer Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear R. Avrum I love yur cds u manage to bring back those who went to listen to foreign music, u r able to penetrate deep with yur voice, don’t be afraid make a series of “chosidisha Fpbrangen” where u sing along with a group of chosidim. All the chobod negunim after all these songs talk a lot, Hlushen za kulmes hlev Vhoshir za kulmes hnefesh I love yankel yankel.
Especially today were we have some so called himesha singers and import foreign songs under so called theme to be me’somiech and kirev, only u have the ability to over shadow with our chosidisha songs, especially chabad negunim (btw im not chobod) in other words eer lerent git fur dem nigun, thanx for the past and a request for the future chosidisha fobrangen series,
And in this zchus that u awaken the soul we should all have a speedy redemption momush NOW.
28
May 03, 2010 at 01:16 PM itchy Says:Report as Inappropriate
didnt you love sholom aleicham from r' shmuel also?
29
May 03, 2010 at 01:17 PM itzy szimonowitz Says:Report as Inappropriate
I always enjoyed your vissits to HASC summer camp. Please come again.
30
May 03, 2010 at 01:23 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear avremel
as a music lover in general, & your music in particuler, I would love to thank you for your outstanding work you brought into jewish music.
one comment, I think that after so many years, you should spend a little more time to thank your co-worker Yossi Green, while there's many composers you took songs from, included some of your own, there's no doubt that he pushed you to higher levels with his unreal beautifull songs, all the way from no jew, tanya, t'kah & so so so so much more.
HAKURAS HATOIV
31
May 03, 2010 at 01:40 PM Harvard Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avromele keep up, more Chabad more YT Ehrliche style you can do it and noone else can.
32
May 03, 2010 at 01:41 PM Reuven Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avraham, you often sing duets with others at your concerts. It would be wonderful for you to make an album of duets with the other greats, Shloime Cohen, Isaac Honig, Michoel Schnitzler, and others.
33
May 03, 2010 at 01:42 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Ur the best!
34
May 03, 2010 at 01:59 PM gus Says:Report as Inappropriate
avremel the slower more hartige niggunim are what the world needs now. there is enough rocked up "jewish" music out there. An avraham fried english classics cd would be great. not reworked, just resung.all the golden oldies brought back for the next generation. a new an around the year cd?! a nusach hatifila cd may also be very much enjoyed by the oilam.
35
May 03, 2010 at 02:02 PM B Kaye Says:Report as Inappropriate
Each of your albums is a gem on its own, with a style of its own, although you do have a general overall style. Each time I listen to an old album I feel a combination of nostalgia and excitement. You manage to give style and taste to songs which are often close to extinction. I really appreciate your work and all the input it takes.
I wouldnt mind a couple albums of the old english songs (i.e. the english collection) and an ivrit collection.
May hashem give you many years of gezunt and parnassah for you and your family and may you continue being mesameach klal yisroel for many years to come.
36
May 03, 2010 at 02:23 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avreiml, see there is a trend here, as you might know,VIN's readers are from across the board, ranging from shtreimelech to uncovered, and therefore the feedback from VIN has a lot to say.
What we see from most comments is, that the public in general wants you to bring back music of old.
Hatzlacha.
37
May 03, 2010 at 02:29 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
hatzlacha ubracha@
he must be a good guy 30 years no scandals!
wow keep it up zeitz matzliach
38
May 03, 2010 at 02:31 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Tanya is the best song ever. I want more of those. I hate the ones that are the ruach of the street.
39
May 03, 2010 at 02:40 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avermel,
Out of all the work you've RECENTLY done, I and my family especially loved the work you did with Zalman Goldstein at the Chabad Centennial Symphony (I think that's what it was called). It was the massive symphony in Manhattan in 2002 that played Chabad songs exclusivly.
Now that was a class act! There you shined! That's your shlichus. Not jazzy numbers or trying to copy goyishe singers like streisand et all.
Avremal, we love you and wish you another 30 golden years going uphill (maalin bakodeh) and not the other way, CH"V.
Zalman Goldstein had the right idea and continues to stay aidel and makes music with yiddishe taam. Maybe get together with him again or just learn what worked from him.
Emes never falls.
Make us proud!
Of course you already do ;) !!
40
May 03, 2010 at 02:44 PM I Says:Report as Inappropriate
1) keep saying a small vort by concerts, turns the gathering into a mitzvah
2) when is the album with kumutz alef ah, torah the besta secorah, coming out?
3) have a program where if a cd is damaged and sends it back to you, they can get a new one for free, or at least a free download. i think this will also cut back on illegal copying.
hatzlacha
41
May 03, 2010 at 02:49 PM Jewish music fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
Wow who can belive it 30 years?! Anyway since you want our feedback well try to. you were really great on live in israel.. The kumzits style where you sing all those oldies. is something out of this world!! something you cant discribe on plane paper! But there is something witch does bother me... Why dont you do something like: together with big singers like: the king Mbd himself why was there very few performances with you and him together?! I think you together would really hit it off like everybody saw yesterday by the parade!!!
42
May 03, 2010 at 02:54 PM Chaim Says:Report as Inappropriate
We would love to hear an english only cd
43
May 03, 2010 at 03:07 PM Fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ avremel the slower more hartige niggunim are what the world needs now. there is enough rocked up "jewish" music out there. An avraham fried english classics cd would be great. not reworked, just resung.all the golden oldies brought back for the next generation. a new an around the year cd?! a nusach hatifila cd may also be very much enjoyed by the oilam. ”
I completely agree- songs we know just re-sung! Wou;d be amazing and every type of listener will be amazed!!!! Thanx so much Avremel for bringing us endless hours of enjoyment...from the U.K!!!
44
May 03, 2010 at 03:10 PM avi Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear avremel=correction arukah was produeced by sheya mendlowits
45
May 03, 2010 at 03:12 PM Inspiration Says:Report as Inappropriate
Create songs that can be listened to in the morning or after you had a bad day that can uplift you, and start the day strong or sooth your troubles.
46
May 03, 2010 at 03:25 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avrohom,
I have some composed a few new songs which I thought might interest you. How can I contact you?
48
May 03, 2010 at 03:45 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ i would try a new style. i appreciated very much what benny freidman brought to the table.
most Jewish music sounds way too similar.
I truly believe AF could be so much more. I feel he is wasting away such talent. why does matisyahu excel and AF...well stay the same. it's probably /c he doesn't have a manager that can take him to the next level. ”
Matisyahu is an artist who is Jewish (kind of like Irving Berlin), not a Jewish Artist. AF is great precisely because he so authentically Jewish in his art. Anu Almim Vheim Almim.
49
May 03, 2010 at 03:46 PM Roz Says:Report as Inappropriate
Are you kidding me Avraimel?? Is it 30 years already??? Wasn't it just yesterday that we played punch ball in front of your parents house?
You should be Zocha to have the Koach and Gezunt to be M'hana the Velt with your amazing G-d given talents!
And don't change a thing, we love you as you are.
Is it really 30 years K"IH??? Chazak!!!!!!!
50
May 03, 2010 at 03:56 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ i would try a new style. i appreciated very much what benny freidman brought to the table.
most Jewish music sounds way too similar.
I truly believe AF could be so much more. I feel he is wasting away such talent. why does matisyahu excel and AF...well stay the same. it's probably /c he doesn't have a manager that can take him to the next level. ”
You will never know how many people you have touched an inspired to do more in their Yiddishkeit, or just to have a stronger connection to their Yiddishkeit, through your music. May you continue to do so for 120 years, and may all of the merit of your accomplishments bring only good things for you and yours in for many years to come.
51
May 03, 2010 at 04:10 PM Aspiring Baal Tefillah Says:Report as Inappropriate
I would LOVE an album of Nusach for Shabbos and Yom Tov. Shlomo Simcha made one some years back and I love it. I think you can do one with your own flavor and "taam." For me, that could be amazing!
52
May 03, 2010 at 04:15 PM af fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
I luv the hartz and gefil you put in your song, just keep it up, I of course would like to hear more chassidisheh niggunim . I wish you would make more cds of only weddding/dancing music so that we can excersize to the kosherest music.
53
May 03, 2010 at 04:25 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ i would try a new style. i appreciated very much what benny freidman brought to the table.
most Jewish music sounds way too similar.
I truly believe AF could be so much more. I feel he is wasting away such talent. why does matisyahu excel and AF...well stay the same. it's probably /c he doesn't have a manager that can take him to the next level. ”
Next level??!! It seems from many comments here that we would rather he stay where he is or better yet - go back to the 1980's level, if you feel that matisyahu excels then you need to stick to his music & not try to corrupt Avremel!
54
May 03, 2010 at 04:26 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Would love an all english cd since I love each and every one of your english songs.
55
May 03, 2010 at 04:29 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I was by one of your concerts you announced there will be a English CD coming out you sang a English song don’t remember the name but something about fire it was beautiful what happened to the CD?
56
May 03, 2010 at 04:33 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ His first audience, perhaps, was his next door neighbor, the wife of the Alter Rebbe, who used to ask the five year old Avremel to sing for her??????
Not possible. ”
Actually it was the mother of the Rebbe, Rebbetzen Chana, who lived in the same or next door building, but windows backed onto the same yard.
57
May 03, 2010 at 04:33 PM Inspired Says:Report as Inappropriate
R' Avremel Shlit"a
You have touched many hearts, and your powerful voice has had far reaching effects (speaking from experience). I love your oldies (Retzei, Aderaba, Ad Heina, Tekah, Tanya; just to name a few) and I would love some more of these Hartzige Yiddishe Niggunim Molei Taam.
May you be zoche to continue to be Mehane Klal Yisroel through your golden talent, until the coming of Moshiach and you singing for all of us there.
Truly yours,
You've Inspired me more than once
58
May 03, 2010 at 04:41 PM AH Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Is that picture in CGI Parksville? ”
Yes, those are the steps of the Beth Building there.
59
May 03, 2010 at 04:48 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
the birchas kohanim on the last tape. was amazing
61
May 03, 2010 at 05:01 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Avermel,
Out of all the work you've RECENTLY done, I and my family especially loved the work you did with Zalman Goldstein at the Chabad Centennial Symphony (I think that's what it was called). It was the massive symphony in Manhattan in 2002 that played Chabad songs exclusivly.
Now that was a class act! There you shined! That's your shlichus. Not jazzy numbers or trying to copy goyishe singers like streisand et all.
Avremal, we love you and wish you another 30 golden years going uphill (maalin bakodeh) and not the other way, CH"V.
Zalman Goldstein had the right idea and continues to stay aidel and makes music with yiddishe taam. Maybe get together with him again or just learn what worked from him.
Emes never falls.
Make us proud!
Of course you already do ;) !! ”
You're probably referring to this: www.ChabadSymphony.com, and yes, it was spectacular. I was there with my whole family (woudn't miss it) as were about 2,500 other people of all types. Avremal shined in his element.
What was most striking was looking around and seeing yidden of all kinds sitting there: Chassidic, Litvish, Yeshivish, and modern/secular yidden all dressed to the nines as if going out to a proper symphony. It was a massive kiddush hashem!
Zalman (also a Chabad chossid) never strayed from the traditional sound (no hip hop, jazz, acid, or other chazzerai) and people keep buying his stuff because of that. He is still releasing great stuff like "Shabbos Farbrengen" with Chilik Frank and "My First Niggunim" for babies. We have them all (and we are NOT chabad).
Avraham, stay shtark like eveyone is saying, keep our kids ears clean (it's not only mommy's job ;) and you will succeed.
62
May 03, 2010 at 05:21 PM shaya dov Says:Report as Inappropriate
we love all your music hasham should bless you till 120
63
May 03, 2010 at 05:26 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Thank you for enteraining me for all these years! My favorite song is probably Ki Loi Sachpoitz!
64
May 03, 2010 at 05:34 PM Ari Says:Report as Inappropriate
Great interview of a real Jewish star! Thanks, VIN.
If I were a manager, I would suggest that AF go on tour with, or record songs with, a younger, unknown protege who can bring in a new generation of fans. As for musical style, don't change much -- you can still hit the high notes like no one else can.
65
May 03, 2010 at 05:48 PM Fried Fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
My family and I are huge fans of Avraham Fried! When I was growing up, every Friday afternoon, my father would bring home a new tape for all of us to enjoy.(Those were the days of actual TAPES!) I wouldn't be wrong in saying that I think over 90% of the tapes he brought were Avraham Fried's; each and every song of every album was simply beautiful and inspiring. We have boxes and boxes of music tapes from years long ago, and AF, you're hits are proudly included! Classy, hartzig, and memorable - Avremel, there is good reason that you are the leader of Jewish music worldwide! Keep up the good work and Keep the music coming for the next 30 years!
67
May 03, 2010 at 06:04 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I generally prefer secular music of the 60s-70s, but always had a thrill when listening to many of AF's songs: Ki HaMitzvah, Aderabah, Hashamayim, Ya'akov, Emes Atah Hu Rishon, etc. I felt the music really came from the heart and didn't get that feeling from MBD and others.
68
May 03, 2010 at 06:08 PM d. fried Says:Report as Inappropriate
people ask me if we are related. well i relate to your songs! my father would sit in his car in the parking lot singing ''dont hide from me'' for hours.maybe some more like that (father dont cry). dovid hamelech of our times!
69
May 03, 2010 at 06:24 PM To Avremel: Says:Report as Inappropriate
There is a beautiful song of yours called "lets change the world" that you recorded and never put on an album or sang in public this is a perfect song to sing for hasc ect. i would love to hear it from you on your next album.
Hatzlacha rabba.
70
May 03, 2010 at 06:36 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
He sings like one of the לוים
71
May 03, 2010 at 06:37 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
If the bais hamikdosh would stand he would be the #1 singer
72
May 03, 2010 at 06:53 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I would love for you to make another yiddish gems ....... thanks
73
May 03, 2010 at 07:03 PM music lover Says:Report as Inappropriate
I thing you should try your next album with MONA ROSENBLUM Guaranteed he will be a hit there is something about Mona that no one has it what ever his arranged its mola toichen Deep arrangements and vocals, Hasem sould give you koach and simcha till "120" non stop
75
May 03, 2010 at 07:27 PM yeshivisha Says:Report as Inappropriate
R' Avremel I have such respect for you, you have no musag. I remember at the height of the tension between Chabad and the Litvishe oilam you had no qualms about singing the most Litvishe yeshivishe songs. You made so many albums with amolige fartzeitishe niggunim which bring anyone with a lev yehudi poem bekirbo to the highest of heights. With songs from alter mekoiros you make us feel like real Yidden and help us shed all the chitzoinios of oilam hatoihu. If I could make a recomendation that you could put out an album of alter niggunim with mekoirois fun alle kreizen, chassidish, litvish, sefardish etc. that would be moiradig.
76
May 03, 2010 at 07:52 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avramel I have one complain against you (Actually my boss has) almost every morning when I go to work I listen to "you" and your songs I go crazy over them and your voice it just takes me out of my mind Specially these days and I end up coming late to work!!
Keep it up Avramel we love you and your eidelkeit
77
May 03, 2010 at 07:57 PM Own Every CD Says:Report as Inappropriate
1. All English Classics done over with modern music and sound
2. NEW English only CD with new hits (Fire, Lets Change the World) and more holy messages for us in these dark times (Talk to your brother Manis for lyrics that can touch our souls) words that encourage us, inspire us, lift us up, remind us of our purpose, and remind us not to get overwhelmed by all the junk in the world and hold on to the beauty of Yiddishkeit
In general there are enough singers taking words from seforim and singing them (sometimes reusing the same words over and over) - we need to be sung to in simple words that we can grab onto
It seems that a lot of people here like the unique things that YOU do as opposed to all the other "Jewish music" out there - The Yiddish Gems, Chabad Nigunim...
The next generation needs Jewish music that is really Jewish
I also agree with comment number 40. - If you could take Yiddish or general classics and bring them to the next generation songs like - Kumutz Alef ah, Torah the besta Secorah etc...
I hope I didnt give you too much - You rock my world! Keep it up! Thank you!
78
May 03, 2010 at 08:03 PM jj Says:Report as Inappropriate
I know avramel fried personally from the music Buisness he is the best guy to work with he is the nicest guy in the music Buisness he also is a mentch and warm guy I admire him by not being mixed in the politics of the music
79
May 03, 2010 at 08:04 PM idea Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Next level??!! It seems from many comments here that we would rather he stay where he is or better yet - go back to the 1980's level, if you feel that matisyahu excels then you need to stick to his music & not try to corrupt Avremel! ”
wasnt comparing to matisyahus songs but rather his public success.
80
May 03, 2010 at 08:15 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
i personally like "singable" songs . Thats why carlbach was always big and why people like yehudah green - because we can sing their songs. Todays music is just not singable.Lets get back to the basics and simplify the songs .
music lover
81
May 03, 2010 at 08:30 PM ur biggest fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
I hear your voice singing in my head when I am down. I hear your voice singing in my head when I am high. I hear your voice in my mind harmonize my singing at the shabbos/y"t table. I thank hashem for giving you such talent and allowing me to enjoy it. Chazak chazak!
82
May 03, 2010 at 08:32 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
WE WANT MORE YT ERLACH CD'S!
83
May 03, 2010 at 08:56 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
xFather Don't Cry
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May 03, 2010 at 09:04 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
The english songs are the greatest, the lebedig songs are great and I like very much how you set the words and about the yom tov erlich that was a great hit honostly I never could listen to r'y"e but when u start singing it I start realizing how great they are but together with your voice its even greater
85
May 03, 2010 at 09:05 PM The old Avremel Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremel, every time a hear you perform, I’m hoping maybe this will be the time that Avremel will give a piece of his old self.
My question is; Why don’t you sing with the same style and voice of which made you big?
There are older singers which we miss and wish they could be young again…. But you’re still from the old singers that still have it, why can’t you give a Habet Na or V’searav?
We were all such huge fans of the Avraham Fried of the eighties, why can’t you give us some of that, those tapes and songs were “un touchable”
One suggestion, I think that at times you may be board of your typical songs and style, so you’ll tweak it up a bit on stage. Let me tell you, the crowed isn’t board of that style. When you just sing regular with out any shtick, it’s just beautiful and untouchable.
Please Avremel give us a taste of the old Avraham Freid who we loved.
Next tape or concert have a 80’s medley!
Hatzlacha in all your work your still the best!!
86
May 03, 2010 at 09:05 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avraham,
As a big time fan for many years, I respect that you asked for input from the field. Here's mine (written with the deepest respect):
1) Stay traditional. Resists the urge to prove you're cool and copying the velt. You're a chossid and should learn from eltere Chassidim who were baalei menagnim such as Shmuel Betzalel Althoize, Sholom Charitonow, the Rebbe of course.
Songs like "Bein Kach Ubein Kach" lessen the repect you deserve. It has a goyishe taam and sounds like "department store music." Same for "Father Don't Cry" which is a stunning message, but it is so over-produced and you try to mimic air-headed radio Top-100 stars with the way you sing it. Be a chossid in the studio too. There are enough Shlock Rocks out there. There aren't enough Chassidishe Ballei Menagnim out there. That's your shlichus! Don't lose sight of that please.
2) Songs like Aderaba, Tanya, Shtar Hatnoim, Emes, etc. are where it's really at. Give us what you'd think you'd be proud to play for the Rebbe, or for your own chassidishe children at home.
3) On stage, stay chassidish in your dancing too. Don't give into the yetzer. Music is powerful and if used right can build great things!
87
May 03, 2010 at 09:20 PM YSK Says:Report as Inappropriate
More Yiddish Gems
88
May 03, 2010 at 09:26 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Would love to see more solo חזנות
89
May 03, 2010 at 09:32 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I love the song of ale ketan sheli that was a single song cd. Can u do that in yiddish for all of us that don't understand ivrit?
90
May 03, 2010 at 09:43 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Reb Avraham, as a avid listener to all your albums produced all I have to say is continue what you did till now, you don't need to change anything at all, your singing style should chas vesholom never b changed and your song selections I trust your taste. Chazak ubaruch!
91
May 03, 2010 at 09:52 PM shlomo Says:Report as Inappropriate
The latest song 'kinor haya tului lemalah mimitusoi mimitusoi shel duvid' makes me see how Duvid Hamelech jumps out from his bed in the middle the night and sats down to learn with a beutiful song. i hear it over and over its GVALDIG.
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May 03, 2010 at 10:19 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
As mentioned, it must of be the mother of the Rebbe, Zechuso Yagen Aleinu, she past away in 1964. She lived on first floor of an apartment building and was very friendly and mangled with all. The Rebbitzin of the previous Rebbe lived in 770 and Avraham was definitely not a next door neighbor. The Rebbitzin (wife) of the Rebbe was very friendly, but did not mingle with the crowd.
93
May 03, 2010 at 10:31 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
i love his brown sweater!!
94
May 03, 2010 at 10:38 PM Brian Says:Report as Inappropriate
I think you should return to the olden days of aidelkeit. Aidel songs weather the test of time. Hip hop has diferrent styles and those styles come and go. Also, though you may get modern/frei people at concerts, they listen to secular music as rule of thumb. The ultra orthodox are your CD consumers, so why not play to your base with songs with aidelkeit?
95
May 03, 2010 at 11:06 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avreimel keep up the great work. We love ur music and I am a strong fan of yours! One critic if I may please. When I go to your concerts I always here the same typical songs over and over again Chazak, Deeda bay, a shaine chulem (although they are beautiful songs) you have so many beautiful songs we would love to hear such as keelo sachpotz, aderaba, yedid nefesh, shivu hashem and so on. Let us hear something different already not the same over and over again.
Just an idea.....I would suggest an opportunity for your fans to vote which songs you to song in advance before a concert such as on a blog or web etc. So u can get an idea what we wanna hear. And you sing the song that gets the most votes. We would really be excited to find out the outcome knowing that these are songs we chose!
96
May 03, 2010 at 11:18 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I would request thaţ you record record and record some more! While I hope your voice lasts ad meah v'esrim every song recorded now is a gift for countless people. Match the voice with your "hartz" and no one comes close!
97
May 03, 2010 at 11:19 PM yiddish mommy Says:Report as Inappropriate
Reb Avraham- your music is one in the world. It is so WARM AND INSPIRING.
Such purity and sweetness...
I can cry when I think about it.
You once sang "sidenyu" together with Chazzan Helfgot which I thought was awesome.
Thank you so much for all you've done for klal yisroel. I'm sure there's a lot of schar waiting for you up there!!
Wouldn't mind hearing some more duets of the two of you.
Hatzlacha rabbah in all your future endeavors.
98
May 03, 2010 at 11:23 PM chassidish rocks Says:Report as Inappropriate
I love you.
1. more chasidishe nigunim, especially the hartzikeh, nigunim that are not so well known but r so very very beautiful, like kremen tchuge berelach. so many volochs, gaguim etc to choose from
2. another yiddish gems
3. more english or hebrew songs with toichen (doesnt need to be original, for ex. the gut fun avraham is gorgeous, cause its not repetitive and has a message), i cant stand guys (and sometimes you among them) just repeating the same 6 hebrew words over and over.
hatzlacha as a chossid
99
May 03, 2010 at 11:23 PM yankel Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Avraham,
As a big time fan for many years, I respect that you asked for input from the field. Here's mine (written with the deepest respect):
1) Stay traditional. Resists the urge to prove you're cool and copying the velt. You're a chossid and should learn from eltere Chassidim who were baalei menagnim such as Shmuel Betzalel Althoize, Sholom Charitonow, the Rebbe of course.
Songs like "Bein Kach Ubein Kach" lessen the repect you deserve. It has a goyishe taam and sounds like "department store music." Same for "Father Don't Cry" which is a stunning message, but it is so over-produced and you try to mimic air-headed radio Top-100 stars with the way you sing it. Be a chossid in the studio too. There are enough Shlock Rocks out there. There aren't enough Chassidishe Ballei Menagnim out there. That's your shlichus! Don't lose sight of that please.
2) Songs like Aderaba, Tanya, Shtar Hatnoim, Emes, etc. are where it's really at. Give us what you'd think you'd be proud to play for the Rebbe, or for your own chassidishe children at home.
3) On stage, stay chassidish in your dancing too. Don't give into the yetzer. Music is powerful and if used right can build great things! ”
you took your words out of my mouth! Yup! I love your singing avremel, the way it was, and please stick to it! can't wait to hear more!
100
May 03, 2010 at 11:24 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
take some more songs from the great "YOSSI GREEN"
101
May 03, 2010 at 11:33 PM Avrumila fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
You're the best at what you do, so continue to just do, what you've been doing. Besides being such a great artist, Avrumila is a tremendous baal chesed. Just ask any kid that ever went to Camp Hasc or Camp Simcha or Yachad, where he has sung and entertained.
102
May 03, 2010 at 11:37 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Why doesn't he make more jazzy songs
We need some life to our crazy life
103
May 03, 2010 at 11:45 PM Friend Says:Report as Inappropriate
Less kvetching, less shtick. Everything else will follow perfectly along!
From a friend
104
May 03, 2010 at 11:50 PM Mushpa Says:Report as Inappropriate
You are a true Dugma Chaya.
There are many celebrities Lehavdil around the world who behave in a less than respectful way, but you are a true Dugma Chaya for what an Eherliche Yid should be, your passion, Eidelkiet and your Yiras Shomayim is unmatched in the Jewish musical world.
Thank you for all that you've done, and for sharing your world with VIN, I think your Minhag to give a dollar for every job that you get is something we all can learn from.
I hope the Eibershter gives you the Kochos to continue 'ad bias goel tzedek',
I would like to request from you for further albums, if you can sing songs together with a lesson or a story, that can strengthen and inspire us in our daily lives.
105
May 03, 2010 at 11:55 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I see here that everyone is mentioning Yossi Green's songs & requesting more of those. so please reb avrum! listen to them and do it!
106
May 04, 2010 at 12:44 AM williamsburg yungerman Says:Report as Inappropriate
I'm just waiting for the next album, Because I want to hear the next upstage of ur brilliant voice, what with every cd of yours, the voice gets Amazing B"H..
since the beginning, yes 30 years ago, when I was a yingele, I was listening to ur cds, (tapes) like the song 'A Gita Voch! A Tate...
Avrum! My father a chushiva Magid shiur for buchirim over 40 years now.- it still ring in my ears the song A TATE BIZTU.. When 4:00 in the morning my father put on the tape recorder day after day for a long time, before he start to prepar his shir at home, but first he was listening to the warm song A TATA BIZTU GUR A GETREIER..., and I wake my self up!! OH! I am Banking to these days!!
Avrum! Your nigunim was always warm with yidish gefil, and I'm waiting for more....
Satmer rabbi (rabbi Yoel ztz"l) once tould the skulener rabbi "your song" is "Torah"!!
Avrum! your Varema nigunim when its touches the yidish pintele to any individual in the kadir heuretz, its Torah!
107
May 04, 2010 at 01:12 AM Stick to what you are good at Says:Report as Inappropriate
I'm not sure where you are headed with the whole Lipa collaboration. Lipa is about Shtick, you are about Toichen and Emese Hargasha. We need more "don't hide from me" type songs and more Tanye and Aderabeh songs. Maybe hook up with Yonatan Razel. Maybe he can make a Vehi Sheamda like song for you.
108
May 04, 2010 at 01:31 AM An old timer? Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremel, you know me as a friend and a fan. Let me state this: Album number four, Melaveh Malkah, was your best yet. That Yiddish song, A guter Voch, continues to remain the best song you've ever recorded - for its lyrics, its music, and, most of all, for your singing it with such incredible taam and geshmak. Avremel, since then it's been over 25 years! You make TOO MUCH SHTICK! Shtick is good for a concert; not a CD! PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, use your incredible and talented voice to SING, not to Kvitcher, and not to impress others. Allow that innocent, Yiddisher and Chassidsher voice to burst forth. One more thing: Lubavitchers are known for their "Ay's," not "Oi". At least in your Lubavitcher music CD's, sing it like a Lubavitcher Chossid - similar to how you sing, "Kein BaKEIdesh." Shem Zich Nit with our russian-Chassidic pronounciation.... I sincerely hope you take the above the right way. I promise, I only hope you improve and grow to even greater heights.
109
May 04, 2010 at 01:58 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Dear Avremel Not too many people remember you as a very young child singing i n
Eli Lipskers Choir you were such an amazing kid Eli really saw your great talent and was so proud of you yasha koach Eli
110
May 04, 2010 at 04:45 AM Hypo Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremel you are the BEST! Every album, every song FANTASTIC. I hope you will realese something for Us!! Yossi, Moshe laufer and Sheya come together for a new album to Avremel. Or re record some oldies ( perhaps an english album). Anything from you brings people closer to Hashem!
Suki and Ding productions i love those nigunim for shabbos, Goodbye Golus, I bought this Tape when I visited Israel at the FIRST TIME!!! imagine when i've heard your songs from that album, and i saw the Western Wall........
Or the first concert with you near Monsey, backstage talk, photos, and you were so kind with two bochurim from Hungary!!!!!
Or the first Ohel concert....
Avremel you are doing a real Kiddush Hashem, Brocho Vhatzlocho.
Chazak
from Hungary
111
May 04, 2010 at 05:03 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
His music all sounds the same, "oyoyoy music" as I call it. Nasal and boring.
112
May 04, 2010 at 05:18 AM A fan from afar Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ I'm just waiting for the next album, Because I want to hear the next upstage of ur brilliant voice, what with every cd of yours, the voice gets Amazing B"H..
since the beginning, yes 30 years ago, when I was a yingele, I was listening to ur cds, (tapes) like the song 'A Gita Voch! A Tate...
Avrum! My father a chushiva Magid shiur for buchirim over 40 years now.- it still ring in my ears the song A TATE BIZTU.. When 4:00 in the morning my father put on the tape recorder day after day for a long time, before he start to prepar his shir at home, but first he was listening to the warm song A TATA BIZTU GUR A GETREIER..., and I wake my self up!! OH! I am Banking to these days!!
Avrum! Your nigunim was always warm with yidish gefil, and I'm waiting for more....
Satmer rabbi (rabbi Yoel ztz"l) once tould the skulener rabbi "your song" is "Torah"!!
Avrum! your Varema nigunim when its touches the yidish pintele to any individual in the kadir heuretz, its Torah! ”
BS"D Avremel, it is thanks to your Yiddishe Oitzrois and your clear Yiddish and easy to follow arrangements on other songs including Tatenyu that I picked up enough day to day Yiddish to speak to people, even to the older generation from Europe. We in Chabad are losing Yiddish and you are doing a real service to baalei tshuva like myself and to the younger generation by preserving "unzerer" Yiddish. Please record another YT Ehrlich album; it has been years! And please do another album like "Yankel, Yankel"; some of those niggunim like Boruch Eloikenu Shebranu are ones that I hear only over here in the former Soviet Union and they should be known in the rest of the world as well.
Actually it seems you record one "pop" album followed by one more "Chassidish" album and that is a good mix. Your "pop" is far from elevator or department store music and has a different taam. I was at Hasc 19 in a very good seat, but not in a very good mood as I was missing a friend's simcha and had been dealing with helping a friend with a matter of "chessed shel emmes" that afternoon, and you saved the concert for me when you were the surprise guest and sang Moriah!
In general, keep up the good work!
113
May 04, 2010 at 07:57 AM williamsburg yungerman Says:Report as Inappropriate
I'm just waiting for the next album, Because I want to hear the next upstage of ur brilliant voice, what with every cd of yours, the voice gets Amazing B"H..
since the beginning, yes 30 years ago, when I was a yingele, I was listening to ur cds, (tapes) like the song 'A Gita Voch! A Tate...
Avrum! My father a chushiva Magid shiur for buchirim over 40 years now.- it still ring in my ears the song A TATE BIZTU.. When 4:00 in the morning my father put on the tape recorder day after day for a long time, before he start to prepar his shir at home, but first he was listening to the warm song A TATA BIZTU GUR A GETREIER..., and I wake my self up!! OH! I am Banking to these days!!
Avrum! Your nigunim was always warm with yidish gefil, and I'm waiting for more....
Satmer rabbi (rabbi Yoel ztz"l) once tould the skulener rabbi "your song" is "Torah"!!
Avrum! your Varema nigunim when its touches the yidish pintele to any individual in the kadir heuretz, its Torah!
114
May 04, 2010 at 08:07 AM i agree Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ take some more songs from the great "YOSSI GREEN" ”
and add shea mendlowitz to the MIX it will be a hit, I'YH. BY THE WAY aruka WAS on anudai shaish wedding album BUT it was not suki and ding. you know very well that it was sheya that produced the album. why dont you give credit where credit is due. you yourself said in part 1 of interview that noone else called you back after your demos but sheya did. he believed in you. you should be nice to him.
115
May 04, 2010 at 08:25 AM Big Fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avremal,
When you do your next Chabad album please don't sing the songs like kelzmer music with shtikelach like "Ay, ti ti ay, ti ti ay ti ti ay ti ti ai..." Sing it straight like a chassidisher song.
Some of the songs on Yankele were unecessarily basterdized and downgraded fro their simple beauty because you had to try shtick with your voice.
Listen please to what many are saying here. We say this out of love, not criticisem. you asked for input after all ;).
Stay simple.
Sing pashut.
Less vocal shtick -- it really diminishes your greatness. Who are you trying to impress? When you are yourself you are the king! When you try to emulate or mach noch other singers it comes through and you lose your golden touch.
Less shticky harmonies on Chabad tunes.
More tmimus.
More Chassidishkeit.
More simplicity.
WE LOVE YOU!!!!!
116
May 04, 2010 at 08:33 AM yankele Says:Report as Inappropriate
King avruhom! The king of the stars...
I'm waiting, you should sing
Some of your old (very old) song like, NO JEWS WILL BE LEFT BEHIND, in yidish! This will be fabulous! My advice, Since I'm in music also.
The same is, to a lot of ur english songs they are fabulous and full of TOCHEN but I think the time its right today to sing it in yidish, avrum! think it over! It will be a hit !
117
May 04, 2010 at 11:00 AM Yakov Says:Report as Inappropriate
Ditto to #72- I LOVED the Yiddish Gems. R' Avremel what a zechus it is to know you might see this. Thank you for the many hours of hisorrerus and ruach! You truly are machzir ateres l'yoshna by keeping a yiddishe gefiel to all of your sheineh negunim. Kayn yirbu!
118
May 04, 2010 at 12:11 PM bgr Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Would love an all english cd since I love each and every one of your english songs. ”
same here. would love an english cd. also would love a cd of the slow, hebrew classics (tanya, a sheinem cholem...)
119
May 04, 2010 at 03:07 PM Top Fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
R' avremel,
I have always been a fan of yours, got the full set of all your albums etc and attended many of your concerts. The gefiel you put into the music often gets to the hartz.
Yasher Koach.
I always maintain that the simon of a good nigun/album, are those one takes off the shelf many years down the line, and one doesnt become sick of them. Meleva malka, we are ready, aderaba, tenu shevach all gorgeous melodious tunes. Chazak was an album par excelence. For many years I said the perfect album is composed by Yossi Green, sung by A Fried and arranged by Moishe Laufer.
You mention that you try not to cross certain boundries. One question I have is regarding the song "dont hide from me". Is that not an adapted form of a non-jewish song? I understand the meaning of the words, but they seem to originate from a love song?
Keep up the good work, and we await your next album with baited breath!
121
May 05, 2010 at 01:24 PM yes Says:Report as Inappropriate
keep it up for 30 more years and keep the yidishe tam
122
May 06, 2010 at 11:31 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ His music all sounds the same, "oyoyoy music" as I call it. Nasal and boring. ”
your loss
123
May 07, 2010 at 12:10 PM dovid Says:Report as Inappropriate
Thank you Avrohom for the most amazing music you brought us with your breathtaking voice, may you continue for many more years with much hatzlocho. One suggestion,maybe some Mona Rosenblum arrangements on upcoming albums.He adds much flavor and enjoyment with his great talent.
124
May 10, 2010 at 10:33 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Avraham,
I have the deepest respect for you, in that you refuse to bend to the outside world and use non-jewish songs. Stay true to yourself!
My personal favorites are all the chabad niggunim, yiddish gems, bracha vehatzlacha, and the jerusalem live from about 15 years ago with a bunch of beautiful slow songs. Stunning!!
Keep it up!