What’s happening
Israeli rapper Vibe Ish, identifiable to some as Or Shoshana, is captivating Israel’s Generation Z audience with gutsy storytelling through rap. A recent full-house performance at Tel Aviv’s Reading 3 showcases his reach. Returning to the spotlight following the somber mark of October’s violence, he believes the show must go on, echoing his followers’ sentiments.
Why it matters
The rapper has touched a deep cultural nerve, resonating especially with Israel’s youth. Channeling old-school rapping emboldened by modern media interaction, Vibe Ish—through both his life story and association with DJs and fellow artists—navigates the post-MTV era with an individualistic approach that speaks to the up-and-coming generation.
By the numbers
The resounding evening at Reading 3 not only attracted a crowd who grew up alongside social media and Spotify; but showcased his substantial growth with over 73,000 Spotify followers. His reach extends beyond musical lyrics, touching upon the lived Israeli experience while offering solace and communal spirit.
In response to tragedy
Sensitive to national crises, Vibe Ish and his team utilized their social media presence to make a democratically influenced decision whether to perform after October’s mass casualties, indicating an ethos attuned with the collective pulse.
Commitment to the craft
For Vibe Ish, artistry blends with daily life’s rhythms; from rigorously penning lyrics to undertaking menial day jobs. Candidly he shares his “faking it ’til he makes it” philosophy, mirroring an earnest and often oscillating journey toward success that many of his followers may find familiar.
The backstory
A native of south Tel Aviv, from a childhood with a single mother in less privileged conditions to embodying an MTV-powered dream, Shoshana has emerged with tenacity from sidesteps in life. Once an outsider, he now headlines Israel’s notable venues while longing for peace, and connection and channelling collective resilience through beats and rhymes.
The father’s perspective
Eli Hazan, who attends his son Eilon’s concerts where Eilon plays guitar for Vibe Ish, shares his amazement at the youthful, lyrical energy that embodies the live performances, magnifying the importance of this musical trend.
Looking ahead
Vibe Ish announces upcoming concerts at Wunderbar in Haifa (February 3) and Zappa Jerusalem (February 10), allowing more opportunities for the public to engage with the living narrative of Gen Z Israel. The connection woven between the music and the audience’s lived experiences poignantly signifies why this is crucial.
This story was first published on jpost.com.