Jewish Songwriter

In this week's episode, we hear from Seattle-based Jewish songwriter, Chava Mirel and her new song, "Stand Up."  This song is part of the Religious Action Center of the Union for Reform Judaism's brand new collection of social justice songs titled "Together As One: New Songs of Social Justice" which you can download here.  All proceeds from the sale of this collection will benefit The RAC.   Chava Mirel is a singer, composer and multi-instrumentalist who combines rich, luxurious vocals with deep pocket rhythms to bringing a new approach to Jewish music. With themes of gratitude, self-acceptance, balance and responsibility for each other, Chava’s songs bring comfort and uplift the spirit.  As an award-winning Jewish musician, Chava has worked for decades as an educator and prayer leader in Reform, Conservative and independent congregations throughout areas of New York, Los Angeles and Seattle. She has recorded two full-length albums under her own name, and also writes and records in a duo project, Josh and Cha

This week we welcome Joe Buchanan and chat about his song "Home (Etz Chaim)." Texas born and southern raised, Joe Buchanan makes Country/Americana music that is steeped in Torah. A convert to Judaism, he grew up struggling with religion and his place in the world. Then, one day outside of the Holocaust Mueseum in Washington D.C. and 13 years into their marriage, his wife told him that she was Jewish. An exploration of faith led the way home for the whole family and kicked off a whirlwind of songwriting, ultimately leading to Joe's debut album - Unbroken.  Since then, he's toured around the US leading an original Shabbat service, concerts, and workshops on his conversion to Judaism. Joe also serves as an artist in residence for communities, guiding an entire weekend of prayer and song. He's been featured at numerous conferences and festivals as well as synagogues and house shows all across this great land. The goal of his music is to help drive connection to the thing that connects us all and to hold the door