Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and alternative reggae rock musician Matisyahu has released his powerful new single and music video “Ascent,” delivering a poignant social commentary on the ongoing struggle against anti-Semitism. The new song, available via Perception Records, showcases Matisyahu’s signature blend of reggae, hip-hop, and spirituality. PRESS HERE to listen now. The track was produced by Michael Goldwasser of Easy Star Records (Dub Side of the Moon, Radiodread, Ziggy Stardub), and known for his work with such artists as Jason Mraz, Kelly Clarkson and Janelle Monae, and was mixed by Grammy Award-winner Scott Jacoby (Lewis Black, Vampire Weekend, Rachel Platten) with mastering by Grammy Award-winning engineer Robbie Robinson (Jason Mraz, Switchfoot).
The accompanying music video for “Ascent” is a compelling and thought-provoking visual incorporating personal footage from Matisyahu’s recent trip to Israel interspersed with historical content. In January, before releasing his latest EP, Hold The Fire, and launching its cross-country support tour, Matisyahu spent time in Israel where he visited various communities affected by the October 7th attacks including several kibbutzim and the grounds of the Nova Music Festival, met with festival survivors, hostage families, and soldiers, and performed a sold-out benefit show for Bring Them Home. PRESS HERE to watch the official music video for “Ascent,” produced by Adam Weinberg, directed by Yariv Horowitz, and edited by Shlomo Weprin.
“This song felt so good to write and record and has been one of the most powerful live moments since performing it on the Hold The Fire Tour,” shares Matisyahu. “One of those undeniable moments where your mind and heart finally say, ‘thank you for saying that.’ Yes, we are the Jews and No, our light will not be put out.”
The release of “Ascent” comes at a pivotal moment for Matisyahu. His 34-date Hold The Fire Tour was met with a constant barrage of protestors and harassment due to his support for Israel and condemnation of Hamas, resulting in multiple venues cancelling shows. Despite these challenges, the tour successfully wrapped in Brooklyn last Saturday, March 23rd in front of a hometown celebratory New York crowd and Matisyahu remains steadfast in his commitment to his artistry and his message of unity, resilience, and peace. In recent appearances on CNN and Dan Abrams Live and in conversations with The Washington Post and various other media outlets, Matisyahu has continued to use his platform to advocate against anti-Semitism and Hamas and call for the release of the hostages.
Because of this, Matisyahu returns to Israel this weekend to receive an award in Jerusalem on March 31st from The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, who are honoring four influential individuals for their efforts to advocate for Israel since the beginning of the Gaza war. While back in Israel, Matisyahu will also perform two concerts – April 2nd in Jerusalem and April 3rd in Tel Aviv – marking the only international artist to perform in the country since the war began.
For more information, please visit https://matisyahuworld.com
