20 TOP Jewish Rappers You Never Knew (2023 Updated List!)

Hip-hop/rap is one genre that has always managed to successfully synergize or marry different styles and music cultures to create a unique and solid musical form and style. This explains why there are so many sub-genres and idioms of hip-hop/rap.

Across diverse world cultures, hip-hop will always find a way to leave its mark—this makes it a truly universal style that almost doesn’t discriminate against other styles. From European and American down to Asian, African, Jewish and several others, there are basically no restrictions.

That being said, one of the most unique, loved and talked about sub-genres of hip-hop is the Jewish hip-hop/rap style.

The Jewish hip-hop style is a genre of hip-hop/rap music with cultural, stylistic, and thematic ties to the Jewish culture and traditions, Judaism and several other Jewish musical traditions. Jewish hip-hop artists and rappers do not basically come from Israel.

They also come from a wide variety of countries and cultures. They have managed to fuse stylistic elements from genres and forms like reggae, Afrobeats, klezmer, and other sub-styles of world music.

They typically fuse these elements alongside traditional hip-hop/rap production techniques like cutting, sampling, looping, scratching, and beatboxing.

To make things more interesting, a lot of Jewish rappers are also multilingual as they rap in various languages like English, Hebrew, Yiddish, Aramaic, Ladino, and other languages from other world cultures—this also greatly depends on their cultural background.

In this article, we will present 20 top Jewish rappers you need to start listening to. Also, even if you are not a fan of rap music, it just makes a lot of sense that you know these rappers.

About the Jewish Rap Scene

Jewish rap may be dated back to the 80s and 90s when Jewish musicians and producers were active in hip-hop.

During this period, Jewish individuals such as producer Rick Rubin, NWA, Lead Jerry Heller, and the CEO OF Def Jam Recordings, Lyor Cohen, rose to prominence and substantially contributed to the music.

Several Jewish rap groups, including the Beastie Boys, 3rd Bass, The Whooliganz, and The High & Mighty, arose during this period. These groups were commercially successful and contributed to the sound and image of hip-hop.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Jewish rappers in Israel were instrumental in developing the nation’s hip-hop culture. Artists like Subliminal and SHI 360 gained popularity and helped Israeli hip-hop develop.

It is crucial to remember that few Jewish rap musicians from this era overtly celebrated their Jewish roots in their music.

Those who integrated Jewish themes and references in their lyrics included Hip Hop Hoodos, the parody group 2 Live Jews, and Blood of Abraham. The Jewish rap landscape changed dramatically in the 2000s.

JDub Records, established in 2002, was one of the first labels to showcase specifically Jewish rap artists. They signed acts such as Sagol 59, Socalled, Axum, and Balkan Beat Box, who infused their music with Jewish and Middle Eastern themes.

Matisyahu was one of the most prominent Jewish rap artists during this period. Matisyahu attained mainstream popularity as a Hasidic reggae rap musician with albums such as

‘Youth” and “Live at Stubb’s” both received a gold certification. His record, “King Without a Crown,” charted in the Top 40, introducing Jewish-themed rap to a larger audience.

Following Matisyahu’s success, many Hasidic rappers arose, including Y-Love and DeScribe. Many of these musicians were baalei teshuva (Orthodox Jewish returnees) who infused their music with their religious beliefs and experiences.

Orthodox music rappers have acquired popularity in Israel among religious and secular audiences. Shtar, a rap rock band created at the yeshiva Aish HaTorah, gained notoriety for their unique fusion of hip-hop and religious themes.

Rinat Gutman has made history as the first devout female rapper, tackling social and religious concerns in her music.

Jewish rap is evolving and diversifying today, with musicians experimenting with new forms, subjects, and cultural inspirations.

Jewish rap acts may be found worldwide, enriching and diversifying the hip-hop genre while expressing their Jewish identities via music.

20 Top Jewish Rappers

The Beastie Boys are considered one of the ancestors of Jewish rap. While not solely centred on Jewish themes, the Beastie Boys, who are Jewish, infused aspects of their Jewish identity into their music.

Other Jewish rappers, such as Matisyahu, a reggae and hip-hop singer recognized for fusing traditional Jewish themes with modern musical forms, have arisen over the years.

The following is a list of notable Jewish rappers.

Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys were an influential and legendary rap group from the 1980s. Adam “MCA” Yauch, Michael “Mike D” Diamond, and Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz formed the group in 1979 as a punk band but eventually evolved to hip-hop.

The Beastie Boys became well-known for their frenetic live shows, clever lyrics, and creative blend of rap, rock, and funk.

Their debut album, “Licenced to Ill,” was released in 1986 and became the first rap album to top the Billboard 200 chart.

The album included singles such as “Fight for Your Right” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn,” establishing the trio as rap pioneers. The Beastie Boys experimented with sampling and producing methods throughout their career as they tried to develop their sound.

They put out numerous albums that critics, such as well received;

These albums demonstrated their breadth of musical talent and solidified their place among the most important hip-hop acts.

The Beastie Boys were well-known for more than just their music; they were also known for their outrageous personas, frequently reflecting their mischievous and rebellious lyrics and performances.

They were also well-known for their innovative music videos, which pushed the limits of the genre and turned into instant classics.

The Beastie Boys, one of the most popular hip-hop groups of all time in sales, have a net worth of more than $90 million.

From the middle of the 1980s to 2013, they put out eight albums that reached the top of the charts and were associated with companies like Rat Cage, Def Jam, Capitol, and Grand Royal.

Famous hip-hop artists, including Run DMC, Mix Master Mike, The Latch Brothers, and Luscious Jackson, have benefited from their impact.

Despite the loss of Yauch and their departure from the hip-hop industry, their standing as one of the wealthiest rappers and their net worth demonstrate their enduring influence.

Columbus now has noise ordinance rules because of the band’s contentious performances, including the event in Georgia in 1987. The Beastie Boys were tragically disbanded after Adam Yauch’s cancer-related death in 2012.

However, their influence on hip-hop and popular culture is still felt today, and they are still regarded as the genre’s pioneers and legends.

MC Serch

American rapper Michael Berrin—better known by his stage name MC Serch—is also a music executive, media personality, and public figure.

Being a part of the well-known hip-hop ensemble 3rd Bass, active in the late 1980s and early 1990s, helped him achieve prominence.

As a member of 3rd Bass, Serch provided politically engaged lyrics and demonstrated a cutting-edge production approach that infused jazz and funk into their rap music. After success with 3rd Bass, MC Serch started a solo career and produced other musicians.

He served in this capacity on Nas’ critically acclaimed album, “Illmatic,” which is regarded as of the best hip-hop records of all time, in 1994. MC Serch has dabbled in several forms of entertainment in addition to music.

He starred in the 2002 film “Bamboozled” and hosted several television projects, including VH1—a reality performance “Ego Trip’s Miss Rap Supreme.” and “Ego Trip’s The (White) Rapper Show.”

He also worked as a radio host, notably on “Serch In The AM” in Detroit and afterwards on Hot 102.7.

With his contributions to 3rd Bass and solo work, MC Serch, one of the pioneering white rappers, greatly impacted the hip-hop culture. His net worth is estimated to be approximately $800,000 by Celebrity Net Worth.

Matisyahu

Matisyahu is an American Jewish rapper, singer, and reggae artist born Matthew Paul Miller on June 30, 1979. He became well-known for his distinct blend of reggae, hip-hop, and Jewish themes in his songs.

Matisyahu’s faith and spirituality are fundamental to his existence and artistic expression. Matisyahu was born and reared in the Pennsylvania town of West Chester. He grew up in a non-practising Jewish home and discovered his Jewish lineage in his twenties.

During a trip to Israel when he was 19, he got more interested in Judaism and was lured to Orthodox Judaism. This spiritual trip had a major impact on his life and helped mould his musical career.

Matisyahu’s breakthrough album, “Shake Off the Dust…Arise,” was published in 2004 and featured his distinct style of blending reggae, beatboxing, and rap with profoundly entrenched Jewish lyrics.

“Live at Stubb’s,” his follow-up CD, was published in 2005 and contained a live recording of his dynamic and compelling performances.

The album featured his most well-known hit, “King Without a Crown,” which peaked at number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The music of Matisyahu can be described as a cross-genre fusion that breaks down conventional barriers.

He develops a distinctive sound that draws on beatboxing, hip-hop, and reggae to captivate listeners. His songs, which frequently feature themes of faith, identity, and personal transformation, reflect his strong spiritual ties to Judaism.

In addition to his distinctive musical approach, Matisyahu is also notable for his appearance. His distinctive features include a beard, traditional Hasidic garb, and a religious hat (kippah or yarmulke).

His artistic ability is further enhanced by this visual expression of his beliefs, giving him an easily recognizable style. Matisyahu’s live performances are known for their strong energy and audience participation.

He combines rap and reggae talents with a captivating stage persona, frequently integrating improvisational aspects. His concerts are colourful and uplifting experiences, with audiences of all origins joining together to celebrate his music.

While Matisyahu’s early works were mostly about his Jewish faith, his later albums have explored a broader range of issues, demonstrating his maturation as an artist.

He continues experimenting and growing his sound, including rock, pop, and electronic music elements while remaining faithful to his reggae and hip-hop roots.

Timati

Timur Ildarovich Yunusov, also known as Timati, is a Russian rapper and music producer. He was born in Moscow on August 15, 1983, to a Tatar-Jewish family. Timati was raised in an affluent family but maintained he was never spoilt.

He became interested in hip-hop and went to music school, where he studied the violin with his composer grandfather’s encouragement. Timati opted to pursue a career in music after a brief stint at the Higher School of Economics.

He rose to prominence after appearing in the music reality show Star Factory 4 and collaborating with musicians such as Detsl.

Timati joined the band Banda and helped establish VIP 77. He also owned a nightclub, a pub and several businesses.

Timati rose to prominence in Russia and beyond through collaborations with musicians such as Snoop Dogg, Mario Winans, and DJ Antoine.

His track “Welcome to St. Tropez” topped the European charts, and he received an award in Moscow for best music video. Timati desires to be known internationally. Thus his aspirations go beyond Russia.

He intends to release new tunes for his second album, “The Boss,” to appeal to the American market. He has stated a wish to collaborate with musicians like Shakira.

During his career, Timati has put out several albums and singles. These are a few of his well-known albums:

Lil Dicky

David Andrew Burd, known by his stage name, Lil Dicky, is renowned for his brand of humorous and satiric rap.

In his songs, he frequently uses humour and deft wordplay to address a variety of subjects, such as his own experiences, romantic relationships, and societal problems.

When Lil Dicky’s music video “Ex-Boyfriend” was released in 2013, it attracted much attention and helped him build a sizable online following.

In 2013, he released “So Hard,” his debut mixtape, which included songs like “White Dude,” “Jewish Flow,” and “Lemme Freak.” These early songs demonstrated his comic rap style and his capacity for funny one-liners.

In 2015, Lil Dicky released his debut album, “Professional Rapper.” Collaborations on the album included Snoop Dogg, Fetty Wap, and Brendon Urie.

“Professional Rapper,” the title track, became a breakout hit and displayed Lil Dicky’s narrative ability as he engaged in a hypothetical debate with Snoop Dogg about his dreams as a rapper.

Lil Dicky’s songwriting technique is frequently characterized by rigorous attention to detail and brilliant wordplay. He is well-known for using funny and self-deprecating lyrics, frequently parodying traditional rap stereotypes.

He focuses on narrative development and incorporating humour into his storytelling. Lil Dicky’s music frequently combines comic storytelling, observational humour, and reflective periods. In terms of albums, Lil Dicky’s second studio album, “Dave,” was released in 2019.

The album is a companion to the same-named television series, in which Lil Dicky stars as a fictionalized version of himself.

Lil Dicky has recorded several hit tracks and music videos during his career, including “Freaky Friday” with Chris Brown, “$ave Dat Money” with Fetty Wap and Rich Homie Quan, and “Pillow Talking” with Brain.

These songs demonstrate his ability to write appealing tunes while infusing them with amusing and frequently nonsensical lyrics. Lil Dicky’s music frequently appeals to a diverse audience by combining his humorous talents with brilliant wordplay and relevant storytelling.

His distinct rap style has earned him a devoted fan following and notoriety in the music industry.

24kGoldn

Born in the United States on November 13, 2000, 24kGoldn is a rapper, singer, and composer. He is a native of California’s San Francisco.

During his senior year of high school, 24kGoldn started making music and establishing a following on websites like SoundCloud. He became well-known for his catchy tunes and adaptable rapping technique.

2019 saw the release of “Ballin’ Like Shareef,” 24kGoldn’s debut single, which received some attention. But his breakthrough hit single, “Valentino,” which was published the same year, made him famous.

The song was a big hit with millions of streams and a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that 24kGoldn found worldwide popularity with his smash track “Mood” with Iann Dior.

The song was an international smash, topping the charts in various nations, including the United States. “Mood” displayed 24kGoldn’s melodic rap approach, fusing rap and pop elements, cementing his place as a rising star in the music industry.

Following the success of “Mood,” 24kGoldn went on to record a streak of hit singles such as “Coco,” “3, 2, 1,” and “Love or Lust.” These tracks demonstrated his ability to generate great tunes and seamlessly merge different genres.

24kGoldn’s desire “never to be constricted by one genre” drives him to create music that crosses many genres. According to him, various ways to characterize his music depend on which song you listen to.

He credits the rappers Paypa Boy and 24Kay, who got him started in music recording, with his “maturity and development.”

Epic Mazur

Bret Epic Mazur is an American singer-songwriter, rapper, and record producer best known as the founder and former leader of the rap rock band Crazy Town.

On August 31, 1970, he was born. Mazur was raised in Brooklyn, New York before his family moved to Hollywood, Los Angeles.

He began working as a DJ at 16 and was given the moniker “Epic.” Mazur began his music career as a Wolf & Epic production team member, working on albums for artists such as Sheena Easton, Bell Biv DeVoe, and MC Lyte.

Crazy Town was founded by Mazur and Seth Binzer in 1995. They were first known as “The Brimstone Sluggers.” Mazur, Binzer, Rust Epique, James Bradley Jr., Doug Miller, DJ AM, and Antonio Lorenzo “Trouble” Valli comprised the band’s roster.

With the publication of their debut album, “The Gift of Game,” in 1999, Crazy Town experienced great popularity.

Over 1.5 million copies of the album were sold thanks in part to the album’s lead song, “Butterfly,” which reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 list.

The band split up soon after releasing their second album, “Darkhorse” (2002), because it did not get the same economic success.

Despite reuniting in 2007, Crazy Town did not release their much-anticipated third album, “Crazy Town Is Back,” as Mazur concentrated on his solo record, “Strip to This.” “The Brimstone Sluggers,” the group’s third studio album, was released in 2015.

In 2017, Mazur made known that he would no longer be performing with Crazy Town. Mazur has worked as a producer for Bell Biv DeVoe, a side project of New Edition, and his work with Crazy Town.

He has worked in television and feature films, and in 2014, he led Sugar Studios LA’s music and audio department.

In addition, Mazur has contributed to sound designs and film compositions, including his work on the 2018 movie “The Oath.”

2 live Jews

Eric Lambert and Joe Stone were a comedy rap duo known as 2 Live Jews. They were recognized for their hilarious and satirical take on popular rap songs, injecting them with Jewish cultural allusions and themes.

They were active in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Their style is classified as parody rap or humour rap. As “Moisha MC,” Eric Lambert was behind 2 Live Jews.

He was a talented lyricist and producer who added a comic touch to their music. Lambert’s brilliant translations of famous rap songs into Jewish-themed versions and his humorous wordplay contributed to their distinct style.

“Easy Irving,” Joe Stone was one half of the duo 2 Live Jews. Alongside Lambert, he sang and contributed funny vocals. Stone’s contributions boosted the humour and energy of their performance by frequently riffing on Lambert’s lyrics with improvisation and funny timing.

Lambert and Stone collaborated on several albums, including “As Kosher as They Wanna Be” and “Fiddling with Tradition.”

These CDs were funny covers of well-known rap songs with Yiddish language and Jewish cultural references. A distinctive combination of humour and Jewish identity, 2 Live Jews’ irreverent and lighthearted approach to rap music helped them acquire popularity.

The mainstream rap scene may not have been much impacted by their music, but fans looking for satirical and hilarious content loved them for their parody rap style and cultural criticism.

Blood of Abraham

Benyad (Benjamin Mor) and Mazik (David Saevitz) were a rap duo from Los Angeles, California, who performed under the name Blood of Abraham.

They were active in the 1990s and were well-known for their socially aware songs and hip-hop fusions with Jewish and Middle Eastern cultural aspects. They have an alternative hip-hop and conscious rap sound.

Early in the 1990s, Jews of Jewish origin, Benyad and Mazik, founded Blood of Abraham.

Their 1993 debut album, “Future Profits,” won praise from critics for its politically motivated lyrics and avant-garde style.

The pair provided a distinctive viewpoint on the hip-hop scene as they addressed social justice, identity, and the Middle East war.

Their music frequently used samples and influences from Middle Eastern music, fusing traditional Jewish and Arabic melodies with rap beats and production; the mix of cultural aspects separated them and offered richness to their lyrical content.

With songs like “Stabbed by the Steeple” and “Niggaz and Jewz (Some Say Kikes),” Blood of Abraham tackled racism, and religious prejudice, and embarked on a quest for equality.

Through their thought-provoking songs, they hoped to challenge preconceptions and foster understanding across diverse populations.

While Blood of Abraham did not attain widespread commercial success, it did gain a devoted following and recognition in the hip-hop scene for its socially conscious attitude and distinct musical style.

Their music continues to appeal to audiences that enjoy social and culturally relevant rap.

Mickey Avalon

A California-based American rapper was born Yeshe Perl on December 3, 1975. He rose to prominence in 2006 with his self-titled debut solo album, known for its bold lyrics and intimate storytelling.

The album, which was produced by Interscope/Shoot to Kill Records in collaboration with MySpace Records, had songs such as Jane Fonda and Mr Right.

Avalon’s music frequently revolves around his experiences with substance misuse and prostitution, offering an unedited and genuine take on these subjects.

His lyrics typically refer to his difficulties with heavy narcotics such as heroin and crack cocaine, diverging from the typical hip-hop narrative of drug sales.

Avalon is known for his sexually charged look, typically performing with heavy eye makeup and a bare breast, in addition to his lyrical content.

Avalon had a difficult upbringing growing up in a Jewish home. His father’s sad accident and subsequent choice to discontinue life support, as well as his sister’s untimely death from a heroin overdose, all had a significant impact on his life and music.

Despite these obstacles, Avalon’s ambition prompted him to pursue a music career after moving to Los Angeles, where he met ex-MTV VJ Simon Rex and began collaborating.

Avalon has released numerous albums, including Loaded in 2012 and Teardrops on My Tombstone in 2017.

His music has changed while retaining his particular flair and frank narrative approach. Avalon was a member of the rap trio Dyslexic Speedreaders, including Simon Rex, Andre Legacy, and Beardo, in addition to his solo efforts.

Mickey Avalon has a devoted following, although his music may appeal to only some due to its graphic content. His songs reveal his weaknesses and problems while offering a glimpse into the darker side of existence.

Avalon addresses his background through his music and presents a distinctive viewpoint on the reality of addiction and the sex business.

Sagol 59

Sagol 59, known as Khen Rotem, is an Israeli rapper, singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He is the “Israeli godfather of hip hop” in Jerusalem.

Born on October 1, 1968, in Israel, Sagol 59 grew up in the kibbutz Ein HaHoresh. For three years, he was a member of the Israel Defence Forces.

Sagol 59’s musical journey began with rock and blues, but in the late 1980s, he discovered hip-hop. His stage moniker, Sagol 59, was inspired by the identification code on his kibbutz laundry tag.

In 2000, he released his first solo hip-hop album in Israel, “The Blue Period,” becoming the country’s first solo hip-hop artist. He has since released various albums and EPs in Israel and worldwide.

While Sagol 59 is best known for his hip-hop work, he has also dabbled in blues, rock, and folk music. Throughout his career, he has cooperated with various Israeli musicians and artists, exploring diverse styles and themes in his music.

Sagol 59 has worked on political campaigns, peace initiatives, and musical endeavours. He has worked with Palestinian artists to promote harmony and peace between Muslims and Jews.

Additionally, he has participated in cultural projects that use music and art to foster communication and understanding.

The documentaries “I Know I’m Not Alone” by Michael Franti and “The Furious Force of Rhymes” by Joshua Atesh Litle include Sagol 59.

He is known as one of Israel’s first hip-hop artists, and his poetic and unpolished artistic characteristics have won accolades.

Some of his notable albums include:

The Blue Period (2000)
The Two Sides of Purple 59 (2003)
Make Room (2008)
Another Passenger (2011)

EPs include:

Reason to Die (2003)
thREeMIXes (2019)

Scott Caan

Scott Andrew Caan was born in Los Angeles, California, on August 23, 1976. He is an American actor, filmmaker, writer, and photographer.

His father, James Caan, is also an actor, while his mother, Sheila Marie Ryan, is a former model. Scott’s grandparents were Jewish immigrants from Germany. While Scott Caan is best known for his acting skills, he also has a passion for music.

His father’s love for music influenced him early on, and he developed an interest in hip-hop. He pursued music production and worked as a roadie for popular groups such as Cypress Hill and House of Pain.

Scott Caan was a member of The Whooliganz, a hip-hop group, where he performed under Mad Skillz alongside The Alchemist, a producer and fellow MC.

The group signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records/Tommy Boy and recorded the “Make Way for the W” album.

Although their first single, “Put Your Handz Up,” did not do well, the Whooliganz song “Whooliganz” was released in the UK in 1995.

Despite his early challenges in the music industry, Scott Caan’s experiences in music contributed to his success as an actor.

He attended Playhouse West acting school in Los Angeles in the late 1990s and went on to achieve success with independent and low-budget films before landing his big break in 2004 as Scott Lavin in “Entourage.”

Although his music career didn’t receive as much recognition as his acting career, it still significantly shaped his artistic sensibilities.

Michael Moshonow

Israeli actor, rapper, musician, and TV personality Michael Moshonov, is also known as Mike Mushon. He was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, on March 3, 1986.

Moshonov hails from a family with experience in the media and entertainment field. His mother is the actress Sandra Sade, while his father is the actor Moni Moshonov. He also has an opera soprano sister named Alma Moshonov.

Moshonov started performing while he was quite young. At age four, he first appeared on television with his father and sister on an Israeli children’s program.

Moshonov, at 15, co-starred in the 2001 film “Late Marriage” with his father. He later attended Yoram Levinstein’s theatre course and participated in the Israeli film “Itzik” in 2004.

Moshonov’s work includes theatre shows, films, and numerous television series.

One of Moshonov’s major cinematic appearances was in Reshef Levi’s 2007 film “Lost Islands,” for which he earned an Ophir Award for Best Actor. He also won an Ophir Award for Best Supporting Actor for his work in the 2010 film “Mabul” (The Flood).

Moshonov is also a member of the Israeli hip-hop ensemble “Cohen@Mushon,” which he performs with his friend Michael Cohen. He has also dabbled with filmmaking, co-directing the music video for Garden City Movement’s “Move On” in 2014.

He has also appeared in various works, including the TV miniseries “The Little Drummer Girl” and the upcoming feature “America” in 2022.

Moshonov is a musician who has collaborated with Cohen@Mushon on studio albums such as “Kosher Gufani” in 2008, “Machshev Lekol Yeled” in 2011, and “Yamim Arukim” in 2016. He also worked on the 2016 mixtape “Havai Ve’Bidur” alongside DJ Mesh.

Y-Love

Yitz Jordan, also known as Y-Love, is an American hip-hop artist recognized for his distinct style and lyrical substance.

He was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on January 5, 1978. Y-Love grew up in a diverse home with a Christian Ethiopian father and a Puerto Rican mother, and his early musical influences were conscious rappers such as KRS-ONE and Chuck D of Public Enemy.

Y-Love became interested in Judaism when he was seven years old after witnessing a Passover commercial on television. This piqued his interest in the faith, and at the age of 14, he began wearing a kippah and practising Shabbat.

He eventually converted to Judaism and attended a yeshiva in Jerusalem. Y-Love has been upfront about his LGBT identity, which he officially revealed in 2012.

Y-Love’s rap style is distinguished using multiple languages, including English, Hebrew, Yiddish, Arabic, Latin, and Aramaic. His lyrics address a wide spectrum of social, political, and religious issues.

When Y-Love began performing as a hip-hop musician, he received criticism from the local Jewish community due to the perceived contradiction between the genre and religious traditions.

Y-Love’s first mixtape, “DJ Handler Presents Y-Love: The Mixtape,” was published in 2005, and it garnered him the Best Hip Hop Artist award at Heeb’s 2006 Jewish Music Awards.

Later, he joined beatboxer Yuri Lane on the cappella album “Count It (Sefira),” designed expressly for Orthodox Jews to listen to between Passover and Shavuot when musical instruments are not permitted.

“This Is Babylon,” Y-Love’s solo full-length album, was published in 2008, merging Jewish spirituality, party rhymes, and political satire. He kept releasing music, including the EP “See Me” in 2011, which was featured on iTunes’ Hip Hop page.

The music of Y-Love is noted for its blend of spirituality, social consciousness, and hip-hop beats.

His forceful lyrics and distinctive bilingual delivery have established him as a prominent presence in the hip-hop community, particularly among Jewish and activist circles.

Despite personal and religious obstacles, Y-Love is committed to utilizing his music to inspire and elevate others.

Eprhyme

Eprhyme, born Eden Pearlstein, is a Brooklyn-based American Jewish rapper and producer. While attending The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, he rose to prominence as a member of the hip-hop duo Saints of Everyday Failures.

Eprhyme’s participation in the Olympia music scene and his work with producer Matt “Smoke” Smokovich aided in the development of the local hip-hop movement.

Eprhyme’s solo career took off when he gained the attention of K Records, a well-known independent label best known for its punk and indie rock musicians.

His first two singles, “Punklezmerap” and “Shomer Salaam,” were released by K Records, marking him the label’s first hip-hop artist in a decade.

Eprhyme’s sound is influenced by punk, jazz, klezmer, reggae, and Middle Eastern music.

His lyrics explore theological and philosophical themes, reflecting his discovery of his Jewish ancestry and spirituality.

In 2009, he released his debut album, “Waywordwonderwill,” on Shemspeed Records, and in 2011, he released his second album, “Dopestylevsky,” which showcased his distinct blend of musical inspirations and reflective writing.

Eprhyme has also participated in several collaborative initiatives.

Darshan, the alternative hip-hop trio he co-founded with vocalist Basya Schechter, has produced many albums. He also co-founded the Ruthless Cosmopolitans with guitarist Jon Madof.

Eprhyme’s musical journey focuses on investigating Jewish ideas, culture, and spirituality through hip-hop.

His unique blend of musical styles and thought-provoking lyrics have made him a standout in the Jewish rap scene.

Kosha Dillz

Rami Matan Even-Esh, known as Kosha Dillz, is an Israeli-American Jewish rapper recognized for his distinctive blend of hip-hop, humour, and cultural satire.

Kosha Dillz, born in Jerusalem and reared in New Jersey, loves his Jewish ancestry and weaves it into his music, frequently incorporating Hebrew lyrics and Jewish themes.

Kosha Dillz’s rap style is distinguished by his aggressive delivery, inventive wordplay, and charismatic stage presence. He flawlessly blends traditional hip-hop elements with varied sounds and influences, creating a distinct and compelling sound.

His music frequently discusses identity, belonging, and overcoming adversity, based on his experiences as an Israeli-American Jew.

Thanks to his infectious energy and dramatic live performances, Kosha Dillz has garnered a dedicated fan base and reputation as a key character in the underground hip-hop scene.

He has published multiple albums and cooperated with prominent artists, demonstrating his musical variety and ability to connect with listeners. Kosha Dillz is well-known for his activism, advocacy, and music.

He uses his platform to promote Jewish culture, combat anti-Semitism, and propagate messages of acceptance and unity.

His distinctive blend of wit, introspection, and cultural pride has established him as a unique voice in the rap industry, bridging the gap between diverse cultures and defying preconceptions.

Chilly Gonzales

Jason Charles Beck, better known as Chilly Gonzales, is a Canadian musician, rapper, producer, and composer. Chilly Gonzales is noted for his wide musical talents and collaborations across genres, yet he is not classified as a Jewish rapper.

However, It is worth noting that he has cooperated with Jewish artists and reflected his Jewish ancestry through his music.

Born in Montreal, Canada, Gonzales began his musical career as a rapper with the Canadian hip-hop group Son before branching out into solo projects highlighting his skills as a pianist and producer.

He has several CDs to his credit, including “Solo Piano” (2004), “Ivory Tower” (2010), and “Room 29” (2017), all of which have received critical acclaim and displayed his artistic diversity. Gonzales’ musical approach blends classical, rap, pop, and electronic elements.

He is well-known for his piano abilities and frequently combines complex melodies and harmonies into his works.

His rap style is distinguished by brilliant wordplay, humorous lyrics, and a distinct delivery highlighting his charisma and musical sensibilities.

While not solely concerned with Jewish themes, Chilly Gonzales has alluded to his Jewish roots in some of his works. In his song “Supervillain Music,” he raps about being “the kosher Nostradamus” and alludes to his Jewish identity.

He has also collaborated with artists like Feist and contributed to Jewish music projects, emphasizing his link to his origin.

Chilly Gonzales’ impact on music goes beyond his solo effort. As a producer and pianist, he has worked with several well-known musicians, including Drake, Daft Punk, and Peaches.

His ability to merge genres fluidly, as well as his dynamic stage appearance, have made him a sought-after collaborator and performer.

Rinat Gutman

Rinat Gutman is a rapper, singer, and songwriter from Israel noted for her distinctive blend of hip-hop, reggae, and jazz. Gutman was born in Nehalim, Israel, in 1980 to a rabbinical family, which strongly affected her upbringing.

As a child, she began her artistic adventure, taking piano lessons and producing melodies. She was first introduced to Hasidic performers before discovering hip-hop via the soundtrack of the film “Dangerous Minds.”

Gutman’s career began as a jazz and folk singer-songwriter before switching to hip-hop and reggae. She returned to Israel after performing at jazz clubs in New York City and collaborating with rappers who had also relocated there.

She rose to prominence due to her thought-provoking songs and socially concerned themes.

Gutman’s rap style mixes elements of reggae and jazz, resulting in a remarkable synthesis of genres.

She is influenced by musicians such as Adele, Lauryn Hill, and Tanya Stephens and infuses her songs with personal experiences and societal commentary.

Her poems frequently address her life experience and social protest and occasionally incorporate religious passages. “Shirat Ha’asavim Hashotim” (“Song of the Weeds“) is a song by Gutman that incorporates dark humour and criticizes male authority figures who take advantage of women.

She uses her music to discuss critical societal topics and question accepted standards. Rinat Gutman has established herself as a pioneering figure in Israeli hip-hop with her distinctive blend of musical influences and outspoken attitude toward tackling societal concerns.

Her music offers a unique take on the genre while remaining faithful to her Orthodox Jewish background and cultural heritage.

Shtar

Shtar is a Beit Shemesh-based Israeli Jewish rap rock band.

The band, founded in 2006 by American rapper Ori Murray and English guitarist/songwriter Brad Rubinstein, quickly acquired popularity for their distinctive blend of traditional Jewish attire and modern-sounding music.

Hip-hop, funk, rock, pop, electronica, and Sephardic influences are all in their music. Shtar began as a duo and gradually expanded to incorporate a full band lineup to improve their live performances.

Their debut album, “Infinity,” was published in 2010, highlighting their unique style—beautiful live-band sounds, sweet vocal choruses (typically in Hebrew), and creative rap lines.

The album got favourable reviews, establishing Shtar as a significant figure in the Israeli music industry. 2012 the band re-released “Infinity” in the United States after signing with Shemspeed Records.

They expanded their musical horizons with their second album, the “Boss EP,” which included more pop and electronic elements, totally English songs, and fewer blatantly religious themes.

Shtar’s music is distinguished by appealing tunes, strong instrumentals, and thought-provoking lyrics.

Their style combines numerous genres, providing a unique and exciting musical experience, and is influenced by bands such as Beck, The Roots, Massive Attack, Mos Def, and Coldplay.

Shtar, in addition to original compositions, has published singles with Jewish festival themes, such as the Prince of Egypt-inspired Passover tune “So Decide” and the Hanukkah single “Lights.”

In 2015, the band competed in the Israeli reality singing competition HaKokhav HaBa, which elevated their visibility and presented their talent to a broader audience.

Shtar continues to build a name for itself in the music industry, pushing boundaries and delivering dynamic performances that resonate with fans worldwide with their original blend of rap, rock, and various musical influences.

Nissim Black

Nissim Black, formerly known as D. Black, is an Israeli rapper and composer of American origin. Born in Seattle, Washington, he began his career as a secular rapper in the early 2000s, achieving popularity in the local hip-hop community.

However, after a life-changing spiritual journey, Nissim converted to Orthodox Judaism and used his music to reflect his newfound faith and identity.

Nissim’s music combines traditional Jewish themes with current hip-hop elements, resulting in a distinct sound that has received global acclaim. His lyrics frequently address his challenges, spiritual progress, and the importance of faith in his life.

Nissim’s 2012 debut album, “Alienated,” was a testimonial to his metamorphosis and newfound faith. The album gained critical acclaim and struck a deep emotional chord with fans.

Nissim continued to make inspiring and thought-provoking music after the success of “Alienated,” including the albums “Lemala” (2016) and “Nissim” (2019).

These CDs delved into various parts of his life journey and included collaborations with Jewish and non-Jewish artists. Nissim’s rap style is distinguished by his dynamic delivery, captivating flow, and sincere storytelling.

His songs frequently reflect his strong spiritual connection and communicate optimism, resilience, and truth-seeking lessons. As a Jewish rapper, Nissim has established himself as a major presence in both the Jewish and hip-hop worlds.

He has been at several Jewish events and music festivals, enthralling audiences with his unique blend of spirituality and musical prowess. Nissim’s music reflects his progress and determination to utilize his platform to encourage others.

Conclusion

Jewish rap, often known as Jewish hip-hop, is a musical genre that combines Jewish culture, customs, and themes with hip-hop music.

As discussed, artists such as the Beastie Boys, Matisyahu, and Kosha Dillz have included Jewish themes and Hebrew lyrics and addressed Jewish identity.

Artists use Jewish rap to express their origins, overcome cultural gaps, combat prejudices, and promote positive Jewish portrayal.

Jewish rappers have celebrated the Jewish community’s diversity and innovation while contributing to the hip-hop environment.