Leah Shoshanah’s Jewish Music
Leah Shoshanah grew up immersed in Jewish music, inspired by her father’s cello performance of Kol Nidre during Yom Kippur services . Her foundation in Jewish studies began in day school and continued in college with Hebrew courses and a study abroad program in Jerusalem.
In 2012, Leah began playing guitar and songwriting, quickly transitioning to songleading in synagogues. Her first Jewish compositions were written for children she worked with, blending her passion for music and community.
By 2016, Leah became a Cantorial Soloist, working with congregations for the High Holy Days and continuing as a freelance soloist in the Chicagoland area.
Today, Leah works with congregations across the country, uplifting the stories of the matriarchs and amplifying themes of justice through her music. She blends her original compositions with adaptations of cantorial works and Jewish music from Andalusia and the Maghreb. In addition to performances, Leah teaches others to create their own adaptations of prayers, encouraging a deeper connection with Jewish liturgy.
New reggae prayer, “Lecha Dodi / Come, My Beloved”
Lecha Dodi is a Jewish prayer sung on Friday evenings to welcome the energy of Shabbat.
"Lecha Dodi" translates to "Come, my beloved, the face of Shabbat is here," where the "beloved" represents the community gathered together, and the "face of Shabbat" refers to the Shekhinah, the feminine embodiment of G!d. This concept is not about gender, but about the divine energy experienced through our interaction with the physical world around us.
Leah's version of "Lecha Dodi" condenses the original Hebrew poetry into three verses, re-contextualizing its message within the framework of mutual liberation and healing. This song is for anyone seeking to create a moment of gratitude, grounding, and spiritual connection, no matter the length of time.
“A Kaddish for Those Unjustly Taken”
Music by Leah Shoshanah, Hebrew lyrics based on the original prayer with English lyrics adapted from interpretations by Aurora Levins Morales, Sarah McCulloch and Marge Piercy
Dedicated to all who've been killed by hate.
More original Jewish music
Below are videos of original Jewish music or adaptations of cantorial works. Many of these have not yet been recorded.
Contact Us
Leah Shoshanah is available for concerts, including Shabbat services, concerts, workshops, weddings and b’nai mitzvot.
