Singer Nati Leviathan Reflects on His Journey from Chabad Roots to International Pop Music
Nati Leviathan, a graduate of the Israeli music competition "The Next Star," has shared insights into his personal and professional journey from his Chabad upbringing to establishing himself in the music industry. Leviathan described how the show gave him the confidence and platform to overcome his fears and fully commit to music, a field he found both challenging and deeply personal. He emphasized that music requires a wholehearted decision to pursue, noting, "I always loved singing, but I was afraid."
Leviathan spent the past year and a half refining his unique sound in the studio, heavily influenced by international pop artists like Ed Sheeran and Shawn Mendes. He explained that growing up with immigrant parents exposed him to music styles different from those popular in Israel, and he sees a significant local audience eager for this kind of pop music. Regarding Israeli artists like Margi attempting international careers and removing Hebrew songs from American Spotify, Leviathan expressed support, acknowledging the language barrier and the strategic focus on English-language music for global success.
Raised as the eldest of eight siblings in a large Chabad family, Leviathan carries his religious and cultural heritage with him but resists strict labels. He highlighted the values of acceptance and love from his upbringing, stating, "Music can touch people and show the beautiful side, which is also the essence of religion." He prefers to be understood through personal interaction rather than visual or cultural stereotypes.
Leviathan's music also reflects the tense security situation in Israel. During a period of heightened conflict with Iran, he composed a song born from collective anxiety, focusing on cherishing love, family, and friends if the world were to end. He summarized, "The message that needs to resonate is to focus on what is good and meaningful."
Looking ahead, Leviathan continues to develop his music with an international pop influence while staying connected to his roots and the realities of Israeli life.
