Rapper Michael Abayev Channels Trauma into Music to Heal and Inspire

Michael Abayev: A Young Voice for Healing in Ashkelon

Inspiration for songwriters can emerge from the most unexpected places. Romantic songs often bloom from the depth of love's experiences. For Michael Abayev, a young rapper from Ashkelon, it was the poignancy of personal and shared trauma that sparked his creativity.

The heartbreak surrounding the loss of Neta Epstein, who valiantly sacrificed himself by falling on a grenade to protect others during a terrorist attack, provided the emotional fodder for Abayev's latest musical endeavor. Shocked and moved by a television interview with Epstein's fiancée Irene Shavit, Abayev found himself deeply connected to the story of that fateful day on October 7.

The Origins of Abayev's Musical Journey

Emerging rapper Michael Abayev hasn't been unfamiliar with pain himself. A few years back, a serious injury in a Navy training program led to the diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), known for causing severe, enduring pain. It was through music, particularly Eminem's 'Stan', that he found solace during his darkest times.

Propelled by his experiences, Abayev decided to use his talents to help others who are struggling. His latest song 'Kochav Shellee (My Star)' became a project filled with purpose and empathy, created to offer some comfort amid the pain. The track, which features Abayev's sensitive rap verses intertwined with singer Tehila Bariach's soulful tones, is a testament to his commitment to the healing power of music.

The Process of Music Creation and Tribute

The process of bringing 'Kochav Shellee' to life was both an artistic and cathartic endeavor for Abayev. Collaborating with his producer Ron Ashkenaizer, they rented a studio space to escape the chaos and dove into the musical craft. They worked tirelessly, melding melodies with meaningful lyrics.

To infuse an authentic Israeli flavor, producer Tom Furman added elements like shofar sounds and flutes, striking a balance between hip-hop beats and cultural resonance. Though touching and potent, the song, according to Abayev, also had to be sensitive to those it represented.

When the time came to share the song with Irene Shavit and Neta Epstein's family, it was met with overwhelming appreciation. The track, which is available for listening on YouTube, resonated deeply, even capturing the personal memory of Neta's love for beer, hinting at his unfulfilled plan to brew his own.

healing, music, empathy