Unexpected Traces in Jewish Places: Hassidic Singer Shulem Sings Billy Joel's Piano Man

Growing up in Brooklyn's Boro Park neighborhood, Shulem Lemmer was exposed primarily to the cantorial music preferred by his father as well as his older brother, who's now a synagogue cantor in Manhattan. 

Shulem, who was a featured child soloist in his community, explains, "There are many different kinds and forms of cantorial music. I was hearing a wide variety of styles and approaches which broadened my awareness.”  Opera, particularly Luciano Pavarotti, also became an important influence, along with Michael Jackson that led him to artists such as Billy Joel, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban.

Today we're sharing Shulem's cover of Billy Joel's classic, Piano Man. It was recorded live on tour at the Manhattan JCC in October 2018, accompanied by leading Broadway musical director, Andy Einhorn.  

Enjoy!

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