Ravid Kahalani

Musician—January through February ’19

Website yemenblues.com | Based In New York, New York

Q: For many Peleh residents, a hallmark of the experience is having space to grow as a complete person, who is also an artist. 

A: The residency was the first time I was able to be supported completely for who I am, for my whole self as a person and a musician. It’s so critical, given what is happening in the world and how artists are struggling, to support artists on the personal level. It’s very important for artists to have this kind of experience, to feel free to learn his rhythm, to learn about his place in the world, without always having to chase after the next song, the next goal.

Q: Despite the residency not requiring any specific artistic output, you were able to do some good writing.

A: During the residency I wrote two songs. Usually I write much more than that, but this time those two songs came from a special place. I was free from all the other commitments, which let me take care of myself, and then I could create some music from a deeper and more peaceful place.

Q: What were the songs about?

A: The first song I wrote was about Yemen, a dreamy song about the country my parents came from, and how I wanted to send good energy there, given the conflict.  

The second song I wrote was about relationships. I recorded it with Chris Houston, my neighbor in the adjoining house on Prince Street.

Ravid Kahalani has become an important star in the Israeli music scene and an exceptional performer and a breakthrough musician in contemporary music around the globe over the past several years. Via a series of detours, Ravid was drawn to music first and foremost through his love for roots and Yemeni prayer melodies, African-American soul and blues, and traditional religious songs. Ravid’s diverse singing talent instilled an enthusiasm for the music of the Sahara and North Africa. In 2010, Ravid created the music act “Yemen Blues” based on his composition, together with Omer Avital, co-founder and the musical director for Ravid’s compositions. Yemen Blues became an important act around the world. After over 500 shows with Yemen Blues, Ravid is now working on a solo project and continuing to perform and create more music with Yemen Blues.

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