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Adult Recordings For those who know the music of Debbie Friedman, it has become a treasured part of their lives - a tape listened to every morning on the way to work in order to focus and prepare for the day, or a song like Mi Shebeirach, bringing respite and hope into countless lonely hospital rooms......With Debbie's honest, pure voice as their guide, a whole generation of Jews has come to embrace the words of the prophets and see the spiritual meaning and relevance they seek in the message of the Rabbis of old. Debbie's music gives voice to the soul that modern life too often ignores - the soul of individuals and the soul of our People.....
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 Reviews of The Water In The Well |
"It is my belief that each one of us carries the well inside of us....the well holds the history of our people, our struggles, our victories, our strengths, our hopes." Debbie Friedman |
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Lesley Pearl "This album could also be considered a well. With songs in both Hebrew and English, 'The Water In The Well' is a collection of upbeat, inspiring, beautiful sounds - musical Prozac - with a rich cast of instruments and influences from around the globe, tied together by the consistent themes of the well and of Jewish tradition." Paul Wieder "Debbie Friedman has been called the 'Jewish Joan Baez.' It is true she shares Baez's soaring soprano, folksy melodiousness, and unapologetic liberalism. But Baez is mostly a cover artist, while Friedman is one of the foremost Jewish composers of her generation, especially in the area of liturgy. Future historians will likely agree that she has had more impact on what is sung in synagogues than any other woman in history." Naomi Geschwind "Debbie Friedman keeps on inspiring. The title track is notable for its lively Latin rhythm and a catchy chorus that makes you want to sing along. The other 11 include a setting of Psalm 92 bound to make its way into the sanctuary, a rousing tribute to the prophet Deborah and liturgical updates." Judy Caplan Ginsburgh "This disk features Debbie at her best both vocally and as songwriter... this recording is a breath of fresh air and a must have for all Debbie fans. The music is great - inspiring, touching - it makes you want to join in immediately. The arrangements are uncluttered and Debbies voice is clear and strong and the featured instrument as it should be. The piano playing of David Bravo is outstanding. Many of the songs have a jazz or Latin feel featuring terrific musicians all around. Flutes and saxophones and lots of percussion enhance the arrangements. A number of the songs on this disk are destined to become standards Vnomar Lfanav, Yotzeir Or, The Water in the Well, God My Shield, and Devorahs Song. They dont get better than these. It is hard to eject this out of your player once you start listening. A songbook with music, lyrics and chords to all of the songs on this disc is also available. Also not to be overlooked are Debbies thoughts contained in the disk including her reflections on the well and the events of September 11. She challenges us to be a WE that cares and dreams, that hopes and fortifies one another." |
 Reviews of It's You |
"This album is a reminder that when we look to the heavens, to the One whose presence nourishes all of creation, we say, 'It's You'. When we want to give our love away and open our hearts to friends and family, or to special people in our lives, to touch and be touched by love, we say 'It's you'." Debbie Friedman |
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Susan Josephs "Debbie Friedman exudes her own brand of joyous, Jewish spirituality on her latest CD. This musical ode to love of all kinds blends old and new original songs based on everything in the Bible to personal experiences." Janet Silver Ghent "The trumpet and French horn at the opening of Until the Morning Comes announce that It's You is not the same old Debbie Friedman recording. With luscious oboe, horn, soprano sax and flute solos, plus background vocals, this is an album with a bigger, richer sound...." Betty Singer ..."The songs are her attempt to share a part of her most have not heard before. The mood varies: romantic, compelling, contemplative, prayerful. The orchestration is mainstream and sophisticated. ....Pour a little kosher wine, sit back and relax, kick off your shoes, turn to your special love and let him or her know that It's You." |
Reviews of The Journey Continues |
"While this haggadah, (The Journey Continues) tells a communal story, it is also rich with personal meaning. We all stand at the shores of the sea every day of our lives. We stand with every decision we make, with every human encounter we have." Debbie Friedman |
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American Jewish World... "The St. Paul native has been releasing discs at a furious pace in recent years, and she continues to secure her legendary status with this wonderful recording fitting for the Passover season....The goal is to make listeners more aware of the women in the Passover story such as Miriam, Yocheved, Shifra and Puah." Aaron Howard "Longtime Friedman fans will be comfortable with her acoustic arrangements. What has evolved is Friedman's feminization of the Passover Seder which grew out of the three-year Ma'yan project. " Betty Singer "Songs traditionally associated with Passover use both newly written and traditional melodies, giving the listener a sense that Debbie is joining right in with the family for the Seder... It's great for listening, for inspiring, for teaching, for remembering." |
 Reviews of Debbie Friedman At Carnegie Hall |
"I don't think I'll ever forget what it felt like to walk out on the stage of Carnegie Hall...the ambience was something to behold. The acoustics were phenomenal, the architecture elegant. All of that was seductive and impressive, but as I sang the Mi Shebeirach, I was reminded in that moment that no matter where people gather for prayer it is they who create the warmth, memory and magic of any experience." Debbie Friedman |
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American Jewish World... "The two CD Carnegie Hall concert recorded January 7, 1996 at the famed auditorium, culminates and captures a quarter century of Friedman's astonishing songwriting...In all a worthy tribute." |
 Reviews of Renewal of Spirit |
"I use these prayers as a vehicle inward. Sometimes they offer me courage, sometimes challenge, and sometimes a cold, hard, uncomfortable reality. These words of prayer show me that healing has little to do with being sick and recovering and more to do with how we see ourselves and our roles in this sometimes torn and fragmented world." Debbie Friedman |
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Stewart Cherlin "The album's theme, as its title suggests, features songs and prayers for renewal of body and soul. Song lyrics derive from scriptural quotes, prayer text, and original poetry. Friedman's musical settings are unimposing and gentle, her style spiritual and reflective....Overall, Renewal of Spirit is uplifting, fun to listen to, and heals the soul." Dr. Linda Bayer "Good artists have a signature recognizable in all their works despite divergent styles. The tenor of Friedman's upper register and stunning harmonies sung with herself are this singer's trademark." Cantor Ellen Schwab "I marveled at one woman's ability to speak to my deepest feelings with beauty and simplicity. My needs for healing, faith, and an accessible framework on which to drape my fears and hopes and failings were all addressed in one collection of melodies." |
 Reviews of The World of Your Dreams |
"I believe that dreams are realities that have been infused with a dimension of holiness. Dreams are thoughts which move from the self into the realm of awareness in which one chooses to take part in replacing complacency and negativity with healing and goodness." Debbie Friedman |
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American Jewish World... "One offering......is Birchot Havdalah, a service for the end of the Sabbath with a gorgeous 'ya la la...' chorus and a pretty melody for the Kiddush. If not already, this arrangement should become the musical standard for Havdalah services." Fan Review... "World of Your Dreams is one of Debbie's best so far. The feeling and emotion that must have gone into each song shines through. The wait was well worth it. ...The tears sure did flow during several of the songs." |
 Reviews of Live At The Del |
"The hall was filled with people and song. There were moments of prayer and laughter and great fun.... This recording is about life, about the realization of dreams and about 'doing' life with passion and dedication." Debbie Friedman |
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Fan Review... "Live at The Del was the first album I bought from Debbie and it caused a tremendous influence in my family life. That album helped me to appreciate our liturgy, full of traditions and mitzvot. Ever since then, Debbie's songs have played a powerful part in our lives. They fill me up with energy and love for my life, for my family and my country, and especially for our G-d." Fan Review... "My 3 year old daughter just loves Live at the Del. We have plalyed it hundreds of times but I never grow tired of it. It has even taught her the Aleph-Bet! Thanks for such a great recording." |
 Reviews of And You Shall Be A Blessing |
"It is my belief that blessing are not those nebulous, distant, magical intangibles, rather, they are the recognition of all that is, the affirmation of faith in the Source of All Life and the enactment of the potential goodness with which each soul has been endowed." Debbie Friedman |
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Compass Magazine "This selection of twelve berachot, set to music and sung by Debbie Friedman, is beautifully produced and spiritually moving. Within educational settings it is recommended that these songs be used to enrich the study of berachot for all ages." |
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Children's Recordings
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*Danielle Dardashti The Jewish Family Fun Book...
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"Debbie Friedman is probably the most popular composer, performer, and recording artist in the arena of American Jewish music, and her reputation is well earned. She consistently writes terrific songs, plus she has a beautiful voice and great Hebrew pronunciation....For Jewish family fun music, Debbie Friedman is the place to start."
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 Reviews of The Alef Bet |
"Her most recent children's album, The Alef Bet, is a real treat. It's an outstanding collection of Friedman's most popular kids' songs for every day (as opposed to holiday-themed). These original Friedman compositions (The Alef Bet, B'ruchim Habaim, Im Ein Ani Li,) are widely used in camps, schools, and synagogues across the country for good reason - they're both educational and so much fun! The album comes with an activity kit and songbook. We highly recommend it." Danielle Dardashti |
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Parent's Guide Outstanding Achievement Award 2002 Darla Hanley "The Alef Bet is an educational collection of original songs to teach Hebrew grammar, vocabulary, and life messages. Children will enjoy this upbeat music and the interactive opportunities to sing/respond. In addition to the recording, Debbie Friedman offers a beautiful activity kit and songbook that includes introductory remarks, context for each piece, translations of the Hebrew texts, music notation, and games/activities. Children and adults will be engagaed in learning the Hebrew language through this music and the supporting materials!." Lesley Pearl "A companion activity-and-songbook will help parents to follow along and make Hebrew language learning a true family experience. This recording will likely be frequently inserted into the stereo systems of Volvos and SUV's carrying children to soccer and Hebrew school - thus introducing yet another generation to Friedman and the power of her music." Zelda Shluker "Originally created by Debbie Friedman as a music curriculum, this 11-track CD with alphabet bookends in Hebrew and English is foot-tapping, kid-friendly and a great introduction to language and learning. Tovim Hash'nayim is about sharing; Shiru Shir L'yom Shabbat celebrates the day of rest. " Elizabeth Applebaum "Who doesn't know Friedman's charming The Alef Bet Song? Why even Barney In Concert features the Purple Guy singing a rousing version of this number. And for good reason. Friedman is terrific. Her songs are happy, fun and easy to sing. You really get the feeling that Friedman made this CD for children to enjoy rather than for self-promotion (you probably know of "children's singers" whose recordings seem not really for families to enjoy, but to hear themselves sing.) Along with The Alef Bet Song, Friedman has written lots of new songs about welcoming guests, Rabbi Akiva and enjoying Shabbat. Just wait until your children hear the snappy Dik'duk (grammar). They'll love it and in no time will be singing along. The CD includes lyrics in Hebrew and English. If you're looking for a great way to introduce your children to Hebrew or to let them have a lot of fun if they already know the language, don't miss The Alef Bet." David Amos "....I listened to this CD with a lot of pleasure.... "The Alef Bet" is a delightful, spirited set of songs to teach children words and phrases in Hebrew. With lively melodies and catchy rhythms, Ms. Friedman introduces the listeners of any age to Hebrew grammar, vocabulary, greetings, and the importance of friendship and sharing. I look forward to seeing my grandson learning and enjoying this album." |
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"Shanah Tovah is an album that takes us through the year with terrific kids' songs for the Jewish holidays and some tunes for anytime. Our favorites include the calypso Mah Nishtanah and the exciting ragtime-style 613 Commandments." Danielle Dardashti |
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Parents' Choice 1997 Audio Approval Award Ellen Mandel "The songs of the prolific and popular Debbie Friedman are staples around campfires and in classrooms and in synagogues. This release collects previously recorded children's holiday songs and presents them in the order of the Jewish calendar year. Friedman's singable tunes and thoughtful lyrics shine..." Lynne Heffley "The sweet, gentle glide of Debbie Friedman's clear folk soprano carries preschool and elementary school-age listeners through this inventive, original musical tour of the year's Jewish holidays....Inviting sing-along participation, Friedman, an award winning, veteran Jewish recording artist, introduces Hebrew words and symbols in these 13 celebratory songs of seasonal traditions and children's games." Civia M. Tuteur "Children will be eager to learn the songs and sing along. Public libraries with large Jewish populations, and all Jewish private schools should purchase this delightful recording that celebrates and teaches about the Jewish holidays." |
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 Reviews of Shirim Al Galgalim |
"Shirim Al Galgalim is a lively holiday album, filled with songs that make you want to get up and dance. It's also quite prayer oriented, with Friedman reciting many of the holiday blessings during the songs. The action-packed, New Orleans marching band-styled Plant a Tree For Tu B'shvat, and the country and western L'Shanah Tovah (which includes a shofar blowing) offer great melodies and simple lyrics that make it easy for young kids to sing along." Danielle Dardashti |
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Jewish Parenting Today
"It is with Debbie's clear sweet voice, catchy melodies, and lyrics sure to stick in any child's brain, Shirim Al Galgalim is a great way to learn about the holidays, teach the blessings that go along with the celebrations, or just enjoy any time!" Betty Singer "This collection of songs is instructive, whimsical, inspirational, and fun all at once....Don't be fooled into thinking this album is for chronologically young children. It's for anyone who can get excited at the anticipation of smelling the lulav or stand in awe at the person who blows the shofar without falling over, or who delights in the notion of a holiday which encourages even adults to be as silly as possible in order to celebrate the downfall of Haman. Yet it also has poignant songs and songs for the spiritually minded; but ultimately, this is a collection of music that points out that the Jewish calendar is filled with excitement, fascination, intrigue, and joy." |
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 Reviews of Miracles & Wonders |
"Miracles and Wonders, an album of Hanukkah and Purim tunes, features the Friedman classic, The Latke Song (recorded by many others) and the funny Haman's Song, about the ultimate bad guy." Danielle Dardashti |
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Karen Shreefter "Composer/singer, Debbie Friedman, has created some more to add to the magic of Chanukah on her cassette Miracles & Wonders....As always with Friedman's work the tunes are catchy, the words are melodic and the experience ageless. And for those who can't wait for spring, half the cassette is songs written for Purim." Betty Singer "The music is upbeat, the narration is short and the entire musical concept and presentation is very unique. And what could be happier than Chanukah? Why Purim, of course! Throughout this almost vaudevillian approach to the humor of the holiday, are lighthearted and silly songs worthy of a Purimspiel. Lest the lesson of the holiday be lost, however, the concluding song, Sing A Song of Freedom, is an upbeat tune with a message of peace, freedom, courage and Torah." *Excerpts from The Jewish Family Fun Book: Holiday Projects, Everyday Activities, Travel Ideas With Jewish Themes www.jewishlights.com |
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