Benny Friedman (Hebrew: בנציון הכהן פרידמן; born December 3 1984) is an American Hasidic Jewish singer, songwriter, and non‑pulpit rabbi. Professionally trained as a vocalist, he became a prominent figure in the contemporary Orthodox pop scene after releasing his debut solo album in 2009. Friedman primarily records and performs in Hebrew, and he presents his music as a form of Jewish outreach (shlichus).
Early life and education
Benny Friedman was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, where his father, Rabbi Manis Friedman, served as a Chabad shaliach. He is one of fourteen children and is the nephew of well‑known Orthodox Jewish singer Avraham Fried; he is also a first‑cousin of Shmuel and Bentzi Marcus of the band 8th Day. At age twelve, Friedman attended the Lubavitcher yeshiva in Postville, Iowa, and later studied at the Lubavitcher yeshiva in Safed, Israel. He subsequently received rabbinic ordination and served as a Chabad emissary in Tucson, Arizona. Friedman married Chanale Gopin on June 4 2009 and resides in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.
Music career
Friedman's musical interest emerged early, singing at family gatherings and listening to recordings by his uncle and other Orthodox artists. After his bar mitzvah he performed at Jewish summer camps and later at concerts throughout the United States, Europe, and Israel. Prior to his recording career he studied voice for four years with renowned coach Seth Riggs in California.
Debut and breakthrough – In 2009 Friedman released his first solo album, Taamu, produced by Avi Newmark. The album introduced his modern pop‑rock style blended with traditional Jewish themes and launched his touring career.
Subsequent releases – Notable albums include Yesh Tikvah: Dawn of Moshiach (2012), whose title track “Yesh Tikvah” became a widely covered anthem within the Orthodox community; B'nei Heichala: A Shabbos with Benny Friedman (2013), a collection of Shabbat zemirot; Kol Haneshama Sheli (2014); Fill The World With Light (2016); Kulanu Nelech (2019), featuring orchestral recordings with the Budapest Art Orchestra; and a series of a‑cappella albums titled Whispers of the Heart (2020‑2022). His most recent studio album, Be Gebentched!, was released in August 2025 and incorporates funk, boogie‑woogie, and other contemporary styles.
Collaborations and performances – Friedman has appeared as a guest vocalist on projects such as the 2011 album Nagila V'Nismicha with the Nagilah Orchestra. He has performed at major Jewish benefit concerts, including HASC (Hebrew Academy for Special Children) productions, and participated in fundraising singles supporting causes such as the rebuilding of a Chabad house after the 2008 Mumbai attacks and legal defense initiatives for community members.
Musical style and influence
Friedman's work combines modern pop, rock, and electronic production with lyrics rooted in Hebrew scripture, Hasidic teachings, and themes of hope, faith, and Jewish identity. He often describes his music as a tool for spiritual outreach, aiming to inspire listeners to deepen their connection to Judaism.
Discography (selected)
- Taamu (2009)
- Yesh Tikvah: Dawn of Moshiach (2012)
- B'nei Heichala: A Shabbos with Benny Friedman (2013)
- Kol Haneshama Sheli (2014)
- Fill The World With Light (2016)
- Kulanu Nelech (2019)
- Whispers of the Heart (2020)
- Whispers of the Heart 2 (2021)
- Whispers of the Heart 3 (2023)
- Be Gebentched! (2025)
Public presence
Friedman maintains an active online presence through his official website (bennysmusic.com) and social media platforms, where he shares music videos, live performances, and updates on tours and charitable activities. His recordings have amassed millions of views across streaming services, solidifying his status as one of the most recognized Orthodox Jewish singers worldwide.