The Miami Boys Choir has taken TikTok by storm, captivating millions with their catchy tunes and impressive vocal talents. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of how this Orthodox Jewish boys’ choir became an unexpected internet sensation.
The Viral Video That Started It All
It all began with a performance of “Yerushalayim” from 2007 that was uploaded to TikTok. This video features four talented soloists – brothers Binyamin and Akiva Abramowitz, Yoshi Bender, and David Herskowitz – belting out Hebrew lyrics with incredible passion and skill12. Within a month, the clip had racked up over 8 million views, launching the choir into viral stardom.
Who Are the Miami Boys Choir?
Founded in 1977 by Yerachmiel Begun in Miami Beach, Florida, the Miami Boys Choir has been a staple in the Orthodox Jewish music scene for decades2. Despite the name, they’re now based in New York City. The choir consists of boys aged 11-14 who perform upbeat, Orthodox songs in Hebrew.
Why Did They Go Viral?
The choir’s sudden popularity can be attributed to a few factors:
- Catchy tunes: Even those who don’t understand Hebrew find themselves hooked on the melodies.
- Impressive vocals: The boys’ singing abilities have left viewers in awe.
- Nostalgic appeal: The 2007 video has a charming vintage quality that resonates with many.
- Universal appeal: The passion and energy in their performance transcends language and cultural barriers.
Where Are They Now?
The viral video has sparked curiosity about the featured soloists’ current lives:
- Binyamin Abramowitz is now a medical student in New York, studying to be a gastroenterologist12.
- Akiva Abramowitz is pursuing a law degree and still sings with an a cappella group called the YStuds12.
- David Herskowitz has embraced his newfound fame, creating his own TikTok account and duetting the viral video2.
The Impact of Their Viral Success
The choir’s unexpected TikTok fame has had some interesting effects:
- Increased exposure: Millions of non-Jewish viewers are now enjoying and appreciating Orthodox Jewish music.
- Positive representation: The video has garnered overwhelmingly positive reactions, with a noticeable lack of antisemitic comments1.
- Reunion hopes: Fans are clamoring for the four soloists to reunite and perform together again2.
The Future of the Miami Boys Choir
While the viral video features a performance from 2007, the Miami Boys Choir is still going strong today. Yerachmiel Begun continues to direct the choir, now with help from his son Chananya3. With their newfound TikTok fame, who knows what exciting opportunities lie ahead for this talented group?In a world that often feels divided, it’s heartwarming to see how music can bring people together. The Miami Boys Choir’s viral success proves that talent, passion, and a catchy tune can transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, touching hearts around the globe.
