Q&A: Levi Robin on Crafting "Whole As A Broken Heart"
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
Photos by Zusha Goldin
LEVI ROBIN’S MUSIC IS A PROFOUND EXPLORATION OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT - a journey that weaves together personal experience, spiritual insight, and a deeply resonant musicality. His latest single, "Whole As A Broken Heart," stands as a powerful testament to this artistic vision, drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of spiritual masters and a life lived with unwavering curiosity. This soul-baring folk artist, whose journey has taken him from the restlessness of runaway youth to the deep exploration of his ancient Judaic roots, crafts a sound that is both intimate and expansive, filled with meaning and connection.
Beyond the music, Robin offers a glimpse into his personal philosophy, discussing how songwriting serves as a tool for personal integration and the delicate balance between artistic vision and audience connection. He invites listeners to embark on a spiritual journey, encouraging them to seek out the "hidden light" within themselves and the world around them.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the heart of "Whole As A Broken Heart," uncovering the intricate layers of its creation and the profound message it carries. Robin shares his insights on the transformative power of embracing brokenness, the collaborative alchemy with producer Yoel Kreisler, and the ethereal harmonies that illuminate his hauntingly beautiful vocals.
LUNA: "Whole As A Broken Heart" is deeply inspired by spiritual wisdom. Could you elaborate on how these specific teachings resonated with you and translated into the song's message?
LEVI: I think there's probably no one in the world who doesn't feel the tumultuous nature of our times. We are grappling with darkness and confusion, within and without. The teachings that inspire this song encourage the harnessing and ultimately the transformation of darkness to an even greater light, through humility, surrender and perseverance.
LUNA: You've described the song as an "invitation." What kind of emotional or spiritual journey do you hope listeners embark on when they hear it?
LEVI: I guess it's an invitation to find togetherness in the place of our aloneness.
LUNA: The single features stunning vocals illuminated by rich, poignant harmonies. How did you and producer Yoel Kreisler (FRAYMES) approach the vocal layering and instrumentation for this track?
LEVI: The harmony arrangements I really just felt out and arranged in the moment. I was going for something ethereal. In general, we work quickly and avoid the energy stagnation that comes from the mental obsession of doing a thousand takes. Keep things in flow, with feeling. If it feels good and sounds good, it's good...At the end of the day, we're experimenting with different sounds, textures and techniques, getting creative with what we have, trying to capture real energy and emotion, hopefully uniquely and interestingly.
LUNA: Your musical journey has taken you from "runaway" to exploring "ancient Judaic roots." How do these diverse experiences shape your songwriting and your perspective as an artist?
LEVI:I don't know if I would have gone through any of those things if I didn't have this creative medium to catalyze such inner movement. It may be as much a cause as it is a response to the journey.
LUNA: You draw inspiration from a wide range of musical genres and artists. How do you synthesize these influences into your own distinctive sound?
LEVI: I am not sure even I know. At the very least, exploring different types of music, even music that can be challenging for me to listen to, helps me stay fluid in relationship to my music. I like to gather sparks and learn through listening.
LUNA: In what ways does songwriting serve as a tool for personal integration and expression?
LEVI: I relate to my soul being the integrating nucleus of my life, and songwriting is a way of tapping into the voice of my soul.
LUNA: Having opened for Matisyahu and garnered a global fanbase, how do you balance your personal artistic vision with the expectations of your audience?
LEVI: On the one hand I don't consider my audience at all when writing a song. On the other, I have a deep desire to bring forth something real and potent that moves them.
LUNA: You hope your music inspires people to "seek out the hidden light of life." What do you believe are some of the key ways people can find that "hidden light" in their own lives?
LEVI:The more we discover and uncover our own inner light, the more we begin to recognize it in everything and everyone else. How this is done is very personal for each person, because we are talking about the way that life speaks to us and through us. And somewhat paradoxically, deep listening is a way that one sees more deeply into the hidden. I hope in my music people can hear that which inspires my music, my own relationship to the hidden light of life, and see more deeply the hidden light unfolding in their lives.
LUNA: Now that "Whole As A Broken Heart” is out, what’s next?
LEVI: Much more to come, stay tuned. Blessings.
