Avishai Cohen

Born on 20th April 1970, Avishai Cohen is an artist whose own journey to international recognition has been nothing short of remarkable. A virtuoso double bassist, composer and vocalist, he left his native Israel to learn jazz in one of the most stimulating and testing cities in the world: New York. After thoroughly dedicating himself to the art of improvisation, by way of busking on the streets of the Big Apple as well as studying theory at college, he landed one of the most prestigious gigs imaginable: sideman to the iconic pianist Chick Corea.

The young student went on to become a bandleader in his own right, recording under his own name, and building a fiercely loyal fanbase from the late ‘90s through his dynamic live shows. It soon became apparent that Cohen sought to bring the concept of the ‘global village’ to both the songs he played and bands he led.

As his music embraced everything from jazz, pop, classical and Israeli – Arab folk songs, his music partners were drawn from the Middle East, USA and South America.

His message was clear: Unity.

Hence the 50:50:50 project resonates with the spirit of inclusion and solidarity that has defined Cohen’s music from the outset. Over time he has provided key opportunities for up and coming young artists, as Corea once did for him. Cohen’s decision to hire players who have gone on to become significant leaders in their own right is testament to this. To uphold that ethos of nurturing, that desire to foster the growth of others, 50:50:50 will offer a new, unique young band or artist the chance to record for Cohen’s label Razdaz Recordz for release in early 2020.

Meanwhile Cohen and his entourage have chosen the winner of the Avishai Cohen Music Award : ‘Shadow and Light’ from New Delhi, India.

‘It was very instant to  me when I received your application and heard your music for the first time I felt something honest and direct about it and also felt you both have something of your own which is very important, for my decision in  supporting  and to help any artist. Congratulations.

We will keep it going together … Avishai’

If Cohen’s personal mission has been to share as well as inspire through his ability and the creative partnerships that result from it then 50:50:50 gives him a platform to do so to even greater effect.

Here is a global artist going global, offering a totally unique experience to diverse audiences right across the planet; a chance to come together around Avishai Cohen and enjoy a whole world of sound.