The Klezmatics

USA

The Klezmatics are world-renowned and Grammy-winning superstars of the klezmer world. 

They erupted out of New York City’s East Village in 1986 and revitalized klezmer for the new century. Their music is steeped in Jewish tradition and Eastern European spirituality. They incorporate provocative themes like human rights and anti-fundamentalism with eclectic musical influences including gospel, punk and jazz improvisation and Arab, African and Balkan rhythms. 

The Klezmatics have garnered numerous accolades throughout their career, including a 2006 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary World Music Album (for Wonder Wheel: Lyrics by Woody Guthrie), a New York Jewish Music Award (Best Klezmer Band, 2006) a GLAMA (Gay and Lesbian American Music Award) and the German Critics Award (twice), and have topped the Billboard world music charts on numerous occasions.