"Jesse"

I can't get this song out of my head. The first time, I did a double take. He said--boy. He said love. No sly innuendos. No furtive euphemisms. Just a boy talking about a boy he loves, one who doesn't love him back. Wow.

In many ways this is the oldest refrain, a hackneyed theme for a song. But say it with enough sincerity in a compelling context, and it becomes a powerfully beautiful song. What's even more amazing is the fact that this piece is by Ivri Lider, one of Israel's most popular contemporary recording artist. I find it incredible that an openly gay musician can sing these sultry words in a part of the world where gays are still stoned and killed for being themselves. The fact that Ivri can be successful in Israel is a testament to his talent, but also, I think, to the remarkable diversity that is secular Jewish culture. We can criticize Israel for many things, but people like Ivri Lider have given me new-found respect for the society that makes all this possible. I am obliged to support his music, not only because it's important to have voices like his heard far and wide, but also out of sheer admiration for a truly talented musician. You can find out more about Ivri at http://www.ivrilider.com/. I know some of you would love to hear what he has to say, and more importantly, how he's saying it.