Rock-reggae-soul musical sensation Mosh Ben Ari has arrived, ladies and gentlemen. That’s right—this summer, the Israeli artist is making waves (and swinging those locks!) for audiences stateside in his first solo North American tour, and it’s not to be missed.

Mosh began to play music when he was 16 years old and it’s been a love affair ever since. Skilled in just about every funky string intrument imaginable (the sarod, cümbüş and tar, to name a few), Mosh released his first solo album, Ad Elay, in 2001 to great success and critical acclaim. Since then, Mosh has released two more albums while busily touring, spreading his message of groove, spirituality and peace to dedicated fans worldwide.

JVibe snagged a few minutes with Mosh to chat about his music, inspiration and Jewish identity.

What have been the most challenging and rewarding aspects of being a musician and touring?
The world music scene outside of America is growing very fast, and I consider it to be one of the most important phenomena in the world. As an Israeli musician, for me to present my music that is based on Israeli roots and combine it with many other influences—it’s a challenge.

[While here on tour], I hope that I will be able to spread the messages of harmony and equality in my music with a big celebration of dance and groove with American audiences.

Who are some of your favorite Israeli artists? American artists?
My favorite Israeli artists are Shalom Hanoch, Berry Sakharof, Ehud Banai and bands like Kaveret and Mashina. My favorite American artists are Bruce Springsteen, James Brown, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Red Hot Chili Peppers and a variety of hip-hop artists.

Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from the simple, everyday lives of human beings, and also very much from all aspects of nature.

Do you have any plans for future albums?
Of course! After the American tour, I’ll finish with summer performances in Israel and then, probably toward the end of the year, I’ll start working on a new album.

How does your Jewish identity impact you?
Being Jewish and Israeli is something that affects my life every day, every second. I’m always trying to be positive and full of awareness about this identity, but I also consider myself a citizen of the world.

Don’t miss Mosh Ben Ari performing in a city near you:

June 18 in Montreal
June 24 in San Francisco
June 26 in Los Angeles
June 29 & 30 in New York City
July 1 in Brooklyn

Check out moshbenari.co.il for tour details, to purchase albums and more.

Liz Imber is a JVibe editorial intern. She loves singing, Scotland and reading crime thrillers.