This week’s publication is another iteration of the 6-point playlist. It is a collection of 6 songs by Jewish artists that will be added to a playlist available to all readers (link below). Each edition will feature songs in a variety of genres and details about the song and artist. Please enjoy this week’s 6 point selection:
With God on Our Side by Bob Dylan
This artist is by no means an underground name in music. Although this Dylan track is less known than the title track of his 1964 album The Times They Are A-Changin’ it is just as meaningful as any of his other works. Not only does this song reflect on themes of G-dliness and the Holocaust, but it also touches upon broader themes of war and hatred. If you sit down and really analyze what Dylan is saying, this seven-minute tune goes quickly.
Sunday Morning by Maroon 5 (Adam Levine)
I absolutely love this album. I’m a huge fan of Maroon 5’s more rock-focused early albums. Led by Jewish lead singer Adam Levine, this song is very light and happy with a fun guitar hook towards the end. Harder to Breathe(Explicit Warning) and She Will Be Loved are also great tracks from this 2002 album.
Valerie Mark Ronson & Amy Winehouse
This one is a doubleheader, as both famous vocalist Amy Winehouse and songwriter/producer Mark Ronson are Jewish. This is not the original version but instead features a much more prominent backbeat while preserving the familiar trumpet accompaniment. Winehouse’s indisputably iconic voice along with Ronson’s incredible ear for production and composition make this song a lively classic.
Sing, Sing, Sing by Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman is a master of the clarinet. Nicknamed “The King of Swing”, Goodman was one of the first musicians to lead an integrated jazz group in the era of racial segregation. He grew up poor, the son of Russian-Jewish immigrants, and found his way into Jazz and performing. This arrangement perfectly demonstrates his skills as both a clarinetist and a band leader.
Happiness by Token
Token is a relatively new artist who, like many at Temple Emmanuel, calls Massachusetts home. This track is one of these young rappers’ more poetic songs, reflecting on the perception of personal pain and happiness through different fictitious characters. Happiness is both a reflection of self and a powerful emotional testament from the artist.
Stop Mike Bloomfield & Al Kooper
Our second doubleheader and last item in this week’s publication is this truly groovy blues track from the Super Sessions album featuring two Jewish musicians. This song is perfectly in-line with similar ones from the late 60s. It features a winning electric guitar, is based in a blues key, and has more solos than you can count on your fingers. The balance of organ, eclectic guitars, and horn accompaniment makes for a very complete and enjoyable tune.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s addition to the 6 Point Playlist. All songs will be linked in a Spotify playlist in addition to YouTube links for each song. As always: Happy listening.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/41EnPEbvrkqnZ3OFxsY4F3?si=8ef7a56bee26480e