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oni Gross, producer: "I started out by doing small projects, and then I decided to produce an a cappella album. I was completely new, and most people don’t like beginner producers. But I had a bit of a family connection to Rivie Schwebel, so I called him up to ask if he would sing on the new album I was producing. He agreed right away. “Just let me know when I should be there,” he said, “and make sure it’s in a key I can reach.” No questions asked — he just trusted me and was willing to sing on my project. Rivie’s agreement was definitely what got me on my way. A Kumzitz in the Rain got out there, and I’ll add that Rivie’s always a great singer to work with."

  Yuval Stupel, musical director and arranger:"Twenty years ago, I worked backstage as a logistics manager for Avraham Fried. The only music I had arranged was for my old friend from yeshivah, Israeli singer Udi Ullman. Somehow, Fried heard it one day, and he said “I didn’t know you did music! Maybe you’d want to arrange this song for me?” That song was “Aleh Katan” — and the rest is history."

  Yumi Lowy, singer: "Aaron Teitelbaum gave me my first two jobs. About ten years ago, I gave him a demo CD to check out, and then he heard me sing at a friend’s simchah. He came over to say that he liked my voice and right on the spot he asked me to perform with Neginah Orchestra, which was where I did my first few gigs. We’ve worked together a lot, and I credit Aaron with hiring me when I was totally unknown."

  Zanvil Weinberger, singer: "I have to mention the kindness of my dear friend, Israeli radio host Yossi Gil. It was not just one “toiveh” but many favors, plus the power he instilled in me, the belief that I would get there very quickly. Yossi’s musical wisdom and the way he farginned my success at every possible stage have undoubtedly opened many gates for me in my career."

  Shmuel and Bentzi Marcus (8th Day), singers: "A few people stand out for their acts of kindness toward us in our very early days. Foremost is our brother Chaim Marcus, who showed us the ropes and helped us with our first album and everything that goes along with that. Of course, he went on to produce our mega hit videos for “Ya’alili” and “Hooleh.” Avraham Fried, our uncle, gave us priceless advice right out of the gate and was so supportive with his wisdom and encouragement. And as for giving us a chance and getting us out there when nobody really knew who we were, that was Izzy Taubenfeld  a”h, president of Sameach Music."

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 705)