Deborah “Debbie” Friedman (z”l), Feb. 23, 1951 – Jan. 9, 2011, was a beloved singer-songwriter of Jewish religious songs. Hundreds of Jewish congregations in America -– Reform, Conservative, Modern Orthodox, and even some Orthodox — have incorporated her music into their prayer services. Friedman was a feminist and a lesbian. She died from cancer at age 59.
Quote: “Were it not for Debbie, Reform and Progressive Jews would not have discovered the connection between prayers and healing. While Reform worship was once characterized by organs and choirs, Debbie taught us to sing as communities and congregations. The guitar became a sacred instrument in her hands, and she opened our hearts and souls to the joy of communal song.” — from a eulogy by the World Union for Progressive Judaism
Sources: Wikipedia, jewishstandard.timesofisrael.com
Learn more about Debbie Friedman on Wikipedia. >>
Watch “Debbie Friedman: My Music, My Story Part One” [13:20]. >>
Watch “Debbie Friedman: My Music, My Story Part Two” [11:31]. >>
Debbie Friedman singing “Mi Shebeirach” [4:35]. >>
Debbie Friedman singing “L’chi Lach” [4:29]. >>
Debbie Friedman singing “Oseh Shalom” [2:42] >>
Photo: Tablet Magazine
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