I am a fan of Lipa Schmeltzer. This may surprise those who know me as a fan of old and very old Jewish music. But Lipa is not only a musician. He is also a Jew who found his place in Judaism despite circumstances that cause some to leave the faith.
The Jewish Forward reports that Lipa encountered rejection because he did not fit in with the expectations of the Skver community. "But my talents prevailed and I continued on my way. I grew stronger within as a result of this, and I also healed a lot from my music. And all the pain, shame, and humiliation that I endured only served to strengthen me.
I had a very difficult childhood. I could not concentrate in heder [Hasidic boys’ school], I was spanked, and I was given nicknames — things I was never willing to discuss, until recently. But I am more willing now to go back to this pain, to look in the mirror and see what I have endured, and how I have to thank Hashem that I arrived to where I am now."
I come to praise Lipa, not to bury Skver. We do not know the whole story of what happened. But we do know he was pained. Some never get past that pain. Lipa has not only remained within the faith but has found an outlet for his individuality in a specifically Jewish context. I believe Lipa is truly trying to connect to Hashem through his music. Listeners find not only pleasure but religious inspiration.
Some feel Lipa's recordings are not the ideal form of Jewish music. I understand where they are coming from. But Lipa spreads joy to others. In a Jewish world that is big, diverse, and imperfect, Lipa's music has an important place. His story warms my Jewish heart.
Read more: http://blogs.forward.com/the-arty-semite/180373/an-exclusive-interview-with-lipa-schmeltzer/#ixzz2Z8KBQnNO
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