Formula Indie Sessions interview with Gedalya Folk Rock Rabbi
Gedalya also known as The Folk Rock Rabbi is an artist firmly embracing the genres of Folk and Roots, his spirituality and faith have provided him with a platform to explore music through a different lens. A teacher and guide exploring themes of faith, morality, and growth, his music is reaching a growing audience around the globe, touching listener’s hearts in every corner of the world.
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
One of my earliest and fondest music memories is when a friend of mine joined the old Columbia Tapes & Records club and suddenly had a whole stack of free cassettes. We’d spend days and nights listening to those tapes—mostly classic rock—soaking in the sounds and discovering new artists together. That was the first time I realized how music could bring people together and create lasting memories.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
I began writing songs as a way to process my experiences and share stories that matter. Music became my outlet to express emotions I couldn’t always put into ordinary conversation. The more I played and wrote, the more I saw how music could inspire hope in others, and that passion just kept growing.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
My latest project is an album called “If I Only Had Faith.” It’s inspired by real conversations I’ve had—sometimes in the most unlikely places, like prisons—about the difference between believing in something and truly relying on it. The songs explore faith, doubt, resilience, and the journey to find deeper trust, both in ourselves and in something greater. My hope is that this album encourages listeners to reflect and find strength in their own moments of uncertainty.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
I call myself the Folk Rock Rabbi—it’s heartfelt folk and roots music with a spiritual twist. Imagine a blend of storytelling, acoustic guitar, and honest lyrics, with influences from Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and a touch of Jewish wisdom.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
I’ve learned that vulnerability is a strength. When I stopped trying to sound perfect and started sharing my true self—flaws and all—my songs became more relatable and powerful. Authenticity changed everything for me.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
My acoustic guitar is my constant companion. I usually write with pen and paper, keeping it old school. For recording and demoing, I use a zoom R-20 a simple home studio setup. Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet room and a little inspiration.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
Honestly, I still find myself coming back to classic rock—it’s the soundtrack that’s shaped my life and songwriting. The energy, honesty, and timelessness of those bands and songs never get old for me.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
I’ve spent time performing in prisons, shelters, and all sorts of unconventional places. Those experiences opened my eyes to the struggles and strengths of people from every walk of life. My music reflects a belief that everyone has a story, and everyone deserves hope and dignity.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
I hope listeners feel uplifted, inspired, and reminded that kindness and faith are powerful forces. Whether you’re going through tough times or just looking for a little light, I want my music to offer comfort and encouragement.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Music has taught me that we’re all connected. A simple song can break down barriers and bring people together, even in the most unlikely places.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
I’d love to play at the Newport Folk Festival—it’s a legendary gathering for musicians and storytellers who value songs with real meaning. And of course, performing at Madison Square Garden would be a dream come true. There’s something iconic about that stage, and it would be incredible to share my music with such a historic and diverse audience.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
Truthfully, I’m pretty particular about the message I share, so I haven’t really thought much about collaborating with other artists. My music comes from a very personal place, and I feel a responsibility to make sure everything I put out aligns with my values and vision. For now, I’m focused on staying true to my own voice and letting that lead the way.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website, Spotify, IG, links)
You can find me at Gedalya Folk Rock Rabbi on Spotify as Gedalya, on Instagram @folkrockrabbi, and on YouTube at youtube
Patreon: patreon
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
I want to keep traveling, sharing music, and building bridges between communities. My dream is to grow my nonprofit A New Song USA into a national movement that brings hope, healing, and connection through music—wherever it’s needed most.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
I hope listeners discover that I’m not just a songwriter, but someone who is constantly seeking to grow spiritually. My music is a reflection of my own journey—full of questions, searching, and a desire to become a better person. More than anything, I want my songs to inspire others to look inward and keep growing, too.
