Israel Portnoy unveiled ‘Feelin’ Good’ featuring Joe Buchanan on May 4, marking the latest chapter for the Manchester-born singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist now working between Israel and the United States. Portnoy’s music is rooted in Jewish tradition and personal introspection, shaped by a spirit of cross-cultural collaboration. He has performed and recorded alongside artists including Idan Raichel, Alex Clare, Ivri Lider, Zusha, Moshav Band and Cardboard Foxes, while contributing to publications such as Jewish Journal, Authority Magazine and OK! Magazine. His 2020 solo debut ‘Facing Flames’ emerged in the aftermath of the Mevo Modiin fires, which destroyed his home and years of recordings, prompting a shift toward deeper lyrical reflection. In 2023, ‘House of Prayer’ surpassed one million streams within its first month, and his forthcoming album Shalom continues to blend spiritual tradition with contemporary songwriting.
‘Feelin’ Good’ is a country-gospel ballad that weaves together folk, soul, gospel and roots influences, anchored by spiritual storytelling and a global cast. Joe Buchanan, a leading voice in Jewish country, joins Portnoy alongside musicians spanning New York, Nashville, Jerusalem and beyond. The track’s foundation was laid with live bass and drums in Nashville, while a gospel choir recorded in New York adds depth and resonance. Acoustic textures, layered vocals and ensemble interplay define the arrangement, allowing each voice to emerge distinctly rather than blend into a uniform sound. The song’s biblical imagery and roots-inspired phrasing underscore its meditation on self-worth as the foundation for authentic connection and shared humanity.
The song began with Robert L. Stark, founder of Stark Enterprises and Portnoy’s longtime collaborator. Initially a straightforward handoff, the project evolved into a full co-production in New York, with Portnoy overseeing arrangement, contributing to the writing and guiding the track’s direction. Bringing in Joe Buchanan and a diverse ensemble, Portnoy mirrored the song’s message of bridging communities. Throughout the process, the focus remained on preserving the human touch in a time when recording is often shaped by technology.
Israel Portnoy had this to say: “We are taught to love others the way we love ourselves. But we aren’t taught to love ourselves. Our generation is in desperate need of self-acceptance. Only from that place will our unconditional love of the other take flight.”
Stream ‘Feelin’ Good’ ft. Joe Buchanan:
