Hey, Haven’t I Heard That One Before?
January 29, 2010The Jewish song repertoire that we are called on to perform is ever-increasing. There are always new songs being added to our already vast base of musical settings. These include songs used either for dancing or for a Chupa, or simply to be performed and heard at some point during the event. That is why it always intrigues me when I see a song that was written and popularized 30 or 40 (or more) years ago reappear and become popular again. What does that say about that specific song? Is it better? Is there something special that still makes it essential for different generations? And if the answer to the above questions is yes, then why did it somehow drop below the radar screen for 15 or 20 years? Tough questions that may require a bit of analysis if we are to come up with a meaningful answer. Well I do have some ideas about these matters, but I would like to suggest that our readers think about this issue and contribute their thoughts. All input is welcome.
I’ll be talkin’ to ya’.
EZ
Not being totally unbiased, of course, I do make conscious decisions as a Neshoma Bandleader to reintroduce songs I like from the past. It is purely a personal choice, but one I base on a feeling that the song will speak to a particular mood in the room, wither among the people or because of some outside event. Often, they go over better than we think they will, which tells me that they never fell out of favor so much as they were crowded out by newer material. It can be a brave choice for a Chatan or Kallah to decide not to opt for the “latest hit” when they plan their wedding, in favor of their personal tastes, however esoteric they may be. That comes with the acceptance on their part that some of their friends may scratch their heads in bewilderment, but most people participate in good humor with whatever is going on at the moment.
I have a feeling that it mostly has to do with Lipa Schmeltzer. Spontaneously, he picks old school songs, then puts it out on album (e.g. Mareh Cohen), then Avremi G. puts it in his wedding book, and the rest is history.