Johnny Mathis Sings and Reflects on Kol Nidrei

Kol Nidrei, the chant that begins the evening service on Yom Kippur has been recorded by just about every cantor who had access to recording equipment. 

Considered by many to be the most sacred song in the Jewish liturgy, it is not really a prayer, but a legal formula involving the annulment of vows.

You don't have to be Jewish to sing Kol Nidrei. Many famous and popular singers have been attracted to the haunting melody and included it in their recordings. We remember Perry Como singing it on TV, and we had a copy of his version on a 45 rpm record.

Johnny Mathis also recorded Kol Nidrei, and in 2011 he talked about his connection to Jewish music in an interview posted by the Idelsohn Society for Music Preservation. We hope you enjoy Johnny's version and his reflections on the recording.

The Jewish Humor Central family and staff extend best wishes for a G'mar Chatima Tova to our readers and their families. We'll be in shul tonight and Wednesday and back with more Jewish humor on Thursday.

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Reflections on Kol Nidrei by Johnny Mathis