Episode Summary

In this episode of The Pink Elephant podcast, Dr. Debbie Akerman sits down with the talented singer-songwriter Riki Rose to explore her musical journey from a restrictive Hasidic upbringing to becoming a rising star in the Jewish music scene.

Riki shares how she taught herself piano and guitar, discovered her love for blues and soul music through artists like Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin, and ultimately found the courage to pursue music professionally despite cultural barriers. The conversation weaves through her influences, creative process, and the emotional power behind her performances, culminating in two intimate live performances.

Key Takeaways

• Music can be a powerful vehicle for self-expression and healing, even when cultural or religious restrictions attempt to suppress it. Finding your authentic voice often requires courage and persistence.

• True artistry often emerges from lived experience and emotional depth. The most compelling musicians are those who've "been through some shit" and channel that pain and resilience into their work.

• Breaking barriers isn't just about individual success—it's about creating space and representation for others. Riki's journey from forbidden music to sold-out concerts opens doors for other women in restrictive communities.

• Natural talent combined with genuine passion creates authentic art. While technical training matters, the ability to feel and convey emotion through music comes from a deeper place.

  
  

Notable Quotes

"They won't let me sing cause I'm a woman. They won't let me dance cause I'm a woman... But I will sing cause I'm a woman. And I will dance cause I'm a woman."

"It used to be very painful. Like I would feel so much pain during a concert like that and then I would go home and just cry the whole night and be depressed. Until I just decided I'm going to do something about it. I'm not going to just cry. I'm going to make this happen."

"When you sing the way these women sing, when you sing the way you sing, there is so much emotion behind it. Their soul. Yes. The neshama. Yeah. But it's a soul that knows joy and it's a soul that knows not joy or pain. A soul that's been through some shit."

"I was born with the music, but I was also born with this performative stage presence, personality. I was a performer always."