They based the song on the advice of the Baal Shem Tov for times of trouble

The past year has strained the patience and resources of so many families, especially in countries where the post-COVID re-opening has been long and drawn-out. SHMUELI AND BENTZI MARCUS of 8th DAY say that while live concerts pretty much came to a standstill, the response from their fans was overwhelming during this period – it was the music played at home that became a conduit for keeping up spirits. That’s why their single “Elika D’Meir,” with its contemporary lyrics — “What shall I do when the money runs dry, here’s a prayer that can pierce the sky: Eloka d’Meir aneini ” — has become somewhat of an anthem for their friends and fans. Bentzi says they based the song on the advice of the Baal Shem Tov for times of trouble: Daven, give tzedakah, and say “Eloka d'Meir aneini.”When they made the video for the song (which made it onto the latest Project X album) they filmed themselves on their cell phones while observing social distancing guidelines and reached out to people around the world who contributed their input. One family told them that “Elika D’Meir” has become a staple that’s kept them going when life hits a frustrating level.

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 863)