Israel Portnoy Releases New Video & Single “IMADI”

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, Israel Portnoy’s latest release, “IMADI,” is a profound reminder of the power of faith and music to soothe the soul. “IMADI” offers the first glimpse into Portnoy’s forthcoming album, Poetry in Prayer, a collection that promises to be as spiritually enriching as it is musically captivating.

Drawing inspiration from Psalm 23:4, “IMADI” is a hauntingly beautiful soul ballad transcending mere music, delving deep into faith and vulnerability. Portnoy masterfully blends his poetic lyrics with the timeless words of the Psalm, creating a chorus that chills and uplifts in equal measure. The sparse, intimate piano arrangement, combined with Portnoy’s soulful vocal harmonies, lays the foundation for a song that builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful gospel-infused finale. The repeated refrain, “You are with me,” resonates with a universal message of comfort, echoed in its Hebrew form, “Imadi.”

Born in Manchester, UK, and now residing in New York City by way of the Jerusalem hills, Israel Portnoy is more than just a singer-songwriter; he is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and prayer leader whose music transcends borders and genres. His journey began in the synagogue, but his sound has been shaped by a diverse range of influences, from the sacred melodies of his upbringing to the eclectic sounds of artists like George Harrison, Paul Simon, and Sting.

Portnoy’s musical journey has seen him collaborate with renowned artists, perform on international stages, and release two albums as part of The Portnoy Brothers. His solo career took a poignant turn with the release of his concept album Facing Flames featuring Guilda, a deeply personal project inspired by the devastation of a forest fire that destroyed his home and recording studio in Central Israel. Despite the loss, Portnoy found solace in his music, with his vintage ’63 12-string guitar, “Guilda,” becoming a symbol of resilience and hope.

As he releases “IMADI,” the first song/installment of Poetry in Prayer, Portnoy is also looking ahead to his upcoming Aura EP, which showcases a different side of his musicality. While “IMADI” and Poetry in Prayer are steeped in spiritual reflection, the Aura EP, inspired by his daughter, brings a new depth of emotion and a more expansive sound. This project emphasizes that Portnoy’s artistry is not confined to any single style or message, offering listeners a rich tapestry of musical exploration.

With “IMADI,” Israel Portnoy continues to weave his unique blend of spirituality and artistry into a musical experience that is as emotionally resonant as it is spiritually profound. As he invites listeners on a journey of faith and musical transcendence, Portnoy reaffirms his place as an artist whose work defies easy categorization, constantly evolving and expanding the boundaries of his sound.