
Aaron Levy Samuels
Aaron Levy Samuels is a writer, speaker, and co-founder of the digital community Blavity. His book of poetry, Yarmulkes & Fitted Caps, was published in fall 2013. Additional print poems and videos can be found on his website. from “Ritual,” poetry and dance collaboration We don’t say goodbye, we remember…. We don’t dance, our bodies … Continue reading Aaron Levy Samuels

Poetry in Popular Music
Like everything on this blog, some idiosyncratic, rather than any attempt at encyclopedic, resources. These songwriters and their works include many sorts of relationships to Jewish heritage:

Raphael (Hebro) Fulcher
Raphael Ohr Chaim Fulcher (“Hebro”) was born to African-American Orthodox Jewish parents in Crown Heights Brooklyn. He also lived formative years in North Carolina, St. Louis, and Israel. He says: I imagine [King David’s] music had rhythm and spirit. Put on a Hip-Hop instrumental and read Psalms. It will blow your mind. I personally believe … Continue reading Raphael (Hebro) Fulcher

Rhys Langston
“Language Arts Unit: A Rap Text Book,” by Rhys Langston Podell, is an interactive album comprised of music, video, and audio poetry as well as poetry and essay in print. Visit Langstonia for the full album. (See also Youtube; story at Tablet.) Rhys Langston writes: I am made to be reminded I am or am … Continue reading Rhys Langston

Solomon Ibn Gabirol: Shaar Asher Nisgar
Solomon Ibn Gabirol was born (c. 1022) in Galaga and died in Valencia (c.1055, possibly as late as 1070), living most of his life in Saragossa. Both poet and philosoper, he began publishing while still in his teens. He is considered the first Hebrew poet to introduce Spanish-Arabic styles of the Golden Age into synagogue … Continue reading Solomon Ibn Gabirol: Shaar Asher Nisgar