From a couple of Facebook Fans:
Thank you for sharing your gift of music. I discovered you through Facebook and have been actively sharing my love of your music. I am a northern Ca native, but travel extensively for work - proud to share your music with everyone! You send such a positive message and create a true "feel good" moment. Thank you for bringing light to my day and for sharing your gift! Blessings

Hyim may be famous for his amazing musicianship, humanitarianism and his chaining himself up (with dog of course) in Oakland, but I love him for his insightful reviews of my son when he was his religious school teacher. Those "reports" are some of my most treasured possessions and show him to be able to see into the souls of people; an amazing skill to have.

From a “Sunny Day” Youtube Fan:
One San Francisco Native 2 Another
70's Community may have faded away
Change grew into challenge of today
Hyim heart song will always be my Sunny Day
~♥~
www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMZgTh51Fsg

Hyim at Camp Sweeney
Date: October 20. 2010
Host: Carolyn Gauthier

Essence Story by Carolyn Gauthier:

One of the most challenging populations that Bread & Roses serves is Juvenile Offenders. Camp Sweeney in Alameda County is where young men who have been convicted of non-violent crimes serve out their sentences. It is a low security facility with housing and a school campus. Some are there full time, some get to go home on weekends. Most all of them are unhappy.

Singer/songwriter Hyim is a native of Oakland and has seen his share of the street scene. He confided to this audience that his father was shot and killed. He asked how many of them knew someone who had been murdered and more than half raised their hands. Hyim gave them a message that was inspiring and crystal clear: violence is not the answer; make good choices; surround yourself with people who will support your personal evolution.

The music was the thread that held it all together. Hyim plays a mix of styles from all over the world. One song was a combination of Colombian and Klezmer. From Reggae to Roots to Rock, Hyim brought his original sound into focus and engaged the audience. At one point he had the guys singing with him, “If you are what you say you are, a superstar…” He asked them for 3 words and he incorporated them into an improvised song with a positive message.

This was a very powerful performance to witness. Hyim explained what Civil Disobedience is and gave the example of when he personally chained himself to a city bench to protest government spending on wars. He finished off the set with a calm song “Babylon” and an important quote to remember from martial artist Bruce Lee, “The blow not thrown is the strongest blow.”

BREAD & ROSES!
Bread & Roses is a non-profit agency which brings hope and healing through live music to people in isolated circumstances in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded in 1974 by Mimi Fariña, Bread & Roses is an arts organization with a human services mission. Offices are located in Corte Madera, California. Visit www.breadandroses.org for more information about the agency.

The Questionnaire: Daniel Jordan
Monday 11 January 2010
In our fortnightly feature, we quiz the great and good of the snowsports world. This week, discover things you never knew about... Daniel Jordan
Dan is the Membership Manager for the Ski Club of Great Britain
10. What iPod tune for a chairlift? Hot (Live @ Digs) – Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra. You’ll thank me later.
http://www.skiclub.co.uk/skiclub/news/story.aspx?intStoryID=6922

BANDWIDTH
Hyim
Delfin Vigil
Click HERE to read the full interview

Hyim at Crossroads
December 23, 2008
Eighty homeless people shuffled into the dining room at Crossroads two days before Christmas. They must have had many mixed emotions, being in a shelter at this time of year. It is a brand new building with many nice features including a large rec room with a wide screen t.v. and lots of computers. It is warm and dry and safe. Still, it is not the place one thinks of when the radio incessantly plays “I’ll be Home for Christmas.”

Hyim set the intention from the beginning of his show that he would “bring in the Light.” He may have been referring to the light of Hanukah, as he is Jewish, or the light of the season, having passed the shortest day of the year, or the light in his heart, which certainly shone brightly for all those present. Most of his songs had at least one part where people could sing along. “It Is So Beautiful” had an infectious reggae beat which got people swaying in their seats. On another song he got them howling along with a song about his D-O-G. His original take on “Happy Birthday” included a verse in Spanish. And his newest song “Home” spoke about forgiveness, which sometimes takes super human strength to achieve. The audience clapped along and added beautiful harmonies to several songs.

Hyim began doing shows for Bread &Roses in 2004, but this was his first show in 2 ½ years. He just completed his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Now he is re-devoting himself to his music in addition to pursuing (or perhaps inventing) a career. I am sure that he will find ways to integrate his many talents and continue to bring the light to all his endeavors.
www.breadandroses.org

........

…..I am really enjoying Hyim's music and will introduce friends to his beautiful artistry. I look forward to having him on the tour again next year! - Lynnette Najimy, FODfest Tour Manager

Living—and Loving—Life with Hyim
Jaime Bolker
February 2008

Only in the San Francisco Bay Area would you find two reggae lovin’ Jews, chowin’ down on vegan food and discussing music, the world, love, life and poetry. This was the scene for my interview with musician Hyim. Described as “a young, poetic Peter Gabriel, a male Norah Jones, Manu Chao, a piano-playing Ben Harper, Michael Franti and Sting in The Police days,” Hyim is really like no one you’ll ever meet. He speaks in a quiet, soothing voice and takes a moment to really think about what he wants to say, so it’s clear he’s really dedicated to changing the world for the better. This interview is just a taste of what he’s all about, but if you find yourself hungry for more, check out his website at www.hyimvibe.com and enter to win (contest over) one of five autographed copies of his newest album, Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra.

Have you lived in the San Francisco Bay Area your entire life?

I was born in San Francisco on a commune, but I went to college out of the Bay. I spent a fair amount of time in New York, in Los Angeles. I’ve been to a fair amount of foreign countries. I left the country for a year and studied music in India. I went all through Europe. I went to Israel by boat and then over to Egypt, Ethiopia and Tanzania. I went up to Nepal. Traveling definitely opened my eyes. It further validated the idea that there are so many ways to live and to perceive life.

What made you want to go into the music industry?

I’ve been playing music since I was a little kid. I grew up on hip hop. I actually made a few albums that were more hip-hop based, but when I was traveling, I became aware of a decision I had to make. Do I want to come back [to the United States] and go into academia or music? I have many family members who are doctors, so I knew I wanted to do some kind of healing work because it’s such a big thing in our world. Finally, I realized that essentially the greatest honor I could give to this world was my music.

You made albums before you traveled. Did those experiences change your music?

It became about where I was going to really focus. In music, you have to be a businessman, and before I hadn’t been one; I had just been making music.

So now you’re a businessman?

[Laughs.] Well, I’m doing better. You have to put food on the table.

So what inspires your music?

Good conversation over good food. Stuff comes out of me constantly. Talking with people is a creative process in itself. The world inspires me. In a lot of ways, writing music is a kind of prayer. I wanted to really use my life. I think my inspiration comes a lot out of my childhood. I grew up in Oakland, so I grew up with music and all different kinds of musicians. I’m definitely inspired by my friends and family. I’m inspired by women and how beautiful they are.

Has being Jewish inspired your music?

Yeah. It’s in my blood. It’s in every breath that comes out. It’s part of who I am. Judaism is something I find so special because it’s not only a platform for your spiritual life, but it also helps one develop a sort of moral framework to live by.

You’ve done so much social activism work in the community. Have you always been a social activist?

I think it had a lot to do with my family. I was going to anti-war events when I was really young. My dad was killed when I was 10, and that triggered something in me to want to stop violence. I’ve definitely been in my fair share of fights growing up in Oakland, but I would like to see what else is possible, because violence hasn’t worked.

How has your music helped with your activism, and how has your activism helped with your music?

In a way, I feel like my music is my activism. I hope it brings peace or love. There’s a song, “I Lay My Heart,” on my album, and I’ve had so many people tell me how much they love that song, that they like playing it on their first date, and that’s a beautiful thing. I feel like the activism and music really help each other. They are sort of two hands of the same body.

What will we see from you next?

I look forward to graduating from grad school. I look forward to putting out my next album, and then after that I’m going to put out an all-ballads album. I want to keep learning and growing. It’s going to be a great year.

What advice do you have for my generation?

Get really, really active and try to make change. Hope for the best and make the best happen. Start organizing people; there are so many places where change needs to happen. There is no wrong place to start.

2008-02

Jaime Bolker is a student at International High School in San Francisco. She’s a pop-culture junkie and is currently obsessed with Dawson’s Creek re-runs and Bob Marley. She’s also a member of the JVibe Teen Advisory Board.

http://www.jvibe.com/Pop_culture/Hyim.php

Hyim's Moving Pictures on NBC11 News is scheduled to air Thursday, April 26th at 11:00 pm and then again on April 27th at 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. One of the reasons for moving the air date up is because of the tragedy at Virginia Tech. Hyim's message of non-violence needs to be heard NOW more than ever."

Michelle Toy, Producer for NBC11 News
Bay Area Program Spreads Peace Through Music

Title:
Who The Hell Is Hyim

Artist:
Hyim

Interview By:
Candice Mays

Intro:
Bay Area artist Hyim (pronounced: "high-eem") is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, a producer, a poet, and a tireless campaigner for human rights. His album Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra was given major kudos by writer Candice Mays (see reviews section). Recently, Hyim agreed to give provocative answers to Candice's probing questions.

Interview:
1. Hey Hyim, it's a great pleasure to be able to sit down and talk with you. Just to get things started, can you please educate our Evolution of Media faithful about who Hyim is?
I am a human being born in the 20th century, thriving in the 21st century and...
Growing up on a commune in the late '70s was an amazing and unusual childhood experience," says Hyim (Hebrew for life), the "hippie child who grew up on hip-hop," California Music Awards Nominee, KFOG Local Scene Artist ("Sunny Day" was track #1 on the KFOG Local Scene CD 2005), Yamaha sponsored artist, "eclectic maestro," and critically acclaimed producer, pianist and performer. He is a singer-songwriter, composer, playwright and poet. He is the next generation's music "fusionisto," following in the footsteps of Dave Matthews, Manu Chao, Peter Gabriel, Ozomatli, Bob Marley, and Norah Jones. This San Francisco native was raised in the Oakland public schools, began playing piano at the age of three, studied sitar in India, clave in Cuba, classical guitar in New Zealand, Turkish rhythms, Persian poetry, the Torah, and whom critics say has "the voice of a young Sting." Hyim blends the rhythms of the world as chariots for his brilliant songs. Hyim provided the score for the short film, "Two Birds," directed by Juan Jose Rivera and winner of the San Francisco Latino Film Festival jury award for Best Emerging Latino Filmmaker 2006. Last year, Hyim held a 5 Day Fast and Chain Vigil for Peace and Education, calling into question the economic sense of investing in war as opposed to our children. Hyim is currently working on a new project called The Hyim Trio: A Collection of Ballads. Hyim's music and spirit know no bounds, and as the sounds spread and take flight, the world watches, bodies are moved, and the audiences applaud.

2. Now, when I was reading up on your website, I couldn't help but be touched by the story you tell about your father's influence on your music. Do you include any of the childhood lessons your father has taught you in your song lyrics?
Absolutely. My father was a hero and very involved in the community. My father taught me the values of respect, family, global citizenship, humor and music. The experience of my father being murdered the way he was, furthered my appreciation for love and peace and non-violent diplomacy. Examples - the songs "Let Out A Little Peace" and "Change A Come."

3. Looking down from heaven, what do you think he'd say about your work?
Keep rockin' that sh*t!

4. Your music is known for being politically optimistic, socially uplifting, and generally happy. Is there ever a time when the negative aspects of everyday life get the best of you and make their way into your music?
Sure. A lot of my music, especially my older music has a lot of sorrow, rage and despair. We all have many sides to ourselves. Check out the songs "Musings of the Beast", "On the Line," "Treasures & Crocodiles" (Ode to Capitalism). Of course, turn on the news. Also, three of my peers have cancer. I believe that my friends' sickness is a direct result of the toxins in our society. The sadness within that understanding, their suffering, naturally influences my muse. We have the highest breast cancer rate in the country.

5. This year, both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton appear to be the front runners in the race for the Democratic presidential nominee and many are saying that this could be a momentous year for politics. How do you think these two front runners are changing the face of politics?
The key word in your question is "momentous". My primary interest in Obama and Clinton is that they are a part of a "momentum" and change in an ever shifting and growing political and social human evolution. It's like in 1872 when Fredrick Douglas and Victoria Woodhull ran together to win the White House. Diversity in all its forms is the spice that adds flavor ("saoco") to life.

6. Do you think America is ready to have an African American or female President? If elected, what changes do you hope they'll institute once in office?
I assume that by "America" that you mean "the United States of America" and not South or Central America or Canada or Mexico. I would like to hope so, but only time will tell if we are ready. The abolition of war, the institution of the Department of Environmental Defense and the Department of Peace will be a prime starting platform.

7. On a lighter note, you've been quoted as saying, "I can shake my thing better than Dave Matthews." Known for your electrifying live performances, what is your goal once you are out there on stage?
Have fun, communing with creation and engaging the people.

8. Judging by the eclectic mix of musicians critics have compared you to, which comparisons, if any, do you feel are the most accurate?
I have no idea. I think that the Evolution of Media's review of my album is a great reference for that question.

9. Many musicians are influenced most heavily by the singers they hear on their parents' record players. What musicians did you look up to the most while growing up? If given the chance, would you collaborate with any of them?
The Police, Tito Puente, Joanie Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Mozart, Ravi Shankar, Paul Simon, Simon & Garfunkel, John Coltrane, Nina Simone, I'd like to get them all into my studio.

10. The music industry is undergoing a virtual upheaval due to the internet's increasingly powerful role. How has the internet affected your career and what suggestions would you have for up and coming musicians trying to use it as a marketing tool for themselves?
The internet has helped my career tremendously. The internet is leveling the playing field. Now it's almost an endurance race. People are so talented that there's a lot of cream at the top, so you have to find people, find your audience who want your cream. Be creative, hone your muse and talent, practice your instrument, and come be my friend on myspace. Don't spend all day in front of the computer!

11. We've covered a wide range of topics and I wanted to give you an opportunity to speak out. Is there anything else that you would like your fans/our readers to know about you, your band, your music, or your life's mission?
As we evolve as human beings on this planet it is vital to our success as a species that we learn the lessons of peace, forgiveness and compassion or we will suffer not only individually but collectively as well. As my production work grows, as my touring broadens, I am continuing to enjoy the fruits of not only my labor but also the work of my ancestors as well. For that, I am grateful. Look out for the Hyim Trio album in 2007; brand new album produced in my little turtle studio.

Shalom, Salaam, Paz, Paix, Pax, Namaste,

HYIM

Album:
Hyim And The Fat Foakland Orchestra

Artist:
Hyim

Style:
Rock Alternative

Who in the hell is Hyim? What in the hell is a Hyim? These are the first thoughts that slipped into my mind once my boss slid this CD across the table. After one run through, I was convinced that Hyim is a man with many faces, many talents, and a lot to say. Combined with an awesome band, Hyim and The Fat Foakland Orchestra present something completely refreshing, reminding us of why it is we smile when the sun is out and why we continue to pray when it rains.

"Sunny Day", the first song on the album, lays back and breathes into view. Every single morsel of the day that people take for granted, this track encourages us to appreciate. "Some may say the world ain't always sweet, but then another part of me say who am I to say the world ain't exactly the way it's supposed to be because it is so beautiful!" Aside from the wars and pollution, there are still a lot of things worth rejoicing about in the world.

Contrasting with the vibrant, up-tempo salsa joints, "Change a Come", shows us that Hyim knows when to take it down a few notches. The lyrics introduce optimism--"I don't lay all my hope in big vote. I ballot punch and then I amp my hope"--and tell us the world isn't perfect, but most of us are doing the best we can.

Hyim covers it all on this album. He addresses the carefree attitude a good day brings, the challenges of growing up, and how good it feels to be loved. So who in the hell is Hyim? He's a Latin singer with a message, a vision, and an extreme talent. You'll be glad you took the time out to get to know somebody new.
Written By: Candice Mays

Hyim
Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra

Rating: (5 out of 5)



Genres: Funk, Jazz/Urban Jazz, Rap/Hip Hop, Singer/Songwriter

Original and honest are the first words that come to mind after hearing the music of Hyim, the multi-talented singer-songwriter from San Francisco, and his new album Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra. This is music from the soul made with talented musicians, unique instrumentations and refreshing arrangements. Hyim explores the avenues of latin, hip-hop, jazz and funk music with some middle-eastern overtones in a cohesive fusion that feels surprisingly natural. This album sheds the confines of genre and could be filed under the label "good music." The album opens with "Sunny Day," a celebratory song reminiscent of Ozomatli with a full horn section and percussion made for your boom-box on the beach or your car stereo on your way to a weekend getaway. There is also a dub version of the song at the end of the album. On "Change A Come," Hyim creates a mellow electronic groove that has a timeless beat and thought provoking lyrics. A song that you can't help but bob your head to, "I Lay My Heart" is another lyrical gem and a love song that is bound to render an emotional response from the listener. There are 15 quality songs on this album providing music for any mood or occasion. Hyim, the self-proclaimed "eclectic maestro," has made it tough for any naysayers with this album. Musicians and music lovers alike will thoroughly appreciate this effort.
- Craig Van Dyke

Go to the Owl web site

Hyim, Hyim and the Fat Foakland Orchestra (self-released): Like the most capable fusionistas, San Francisco singer-songwriter-piano man Hyim Ross juggles the sounds on the world's streets -- Cuban tres guitar, New Orleans second-line brass, hip-hop bounce -- to achieve a style as unique as it is invigorating. Hyim's Orchestra includes a shamelessly tight rhythm section and an expanded palette of strings, horns and massive percussion, but what really shines on his second self-released album is the songwriting. Lyrically and compositionally, Hyim's deft blend of humor and pathos, experience and optimism, reveals an emerging talent worthy of the designation of world musician. (Check 'em out if you like Paul Simon, Peter Gabriel, Manu Chao.) -- Houston Press - New Times, Inc.

Hyim really is a one-man band, making his own percussion, instrumental and vocal tracks right in front of us. He plays music from all over the world. He is brave and real and an extraordinary talent who makes hits--what else can we say?
— Bread and Roses

Hyim is a Volunteer Bread and Roses Performer

With a soulful delivery that sometimes recalls Sting from the days fronting The Police, the vocalist and gifted keyboard player shifts easily from confessional introspection to funk drenched exhortation backed by the fluid support of his Fat Foakland Orchestra.
— David Pehling, KTVU 2- Entertainment

I am interested in joining the mailing list to hear what Hyim is doing. We will definitely check him out next time he comes to town. Thanks to the KFOG Local Scene CD for introducing us. Thanks. It's a great disc.
— A FAN - from a PayPal Order

Hyim - Thank you for putting together one of the best all around albums I have heard in a long long time. This CD was the theme music for my group trip last September. This CD is being sung by my 2 1/2 yr old son when he's in the car. They are gifts. I'm giving them out to co- workers and friends. It feels very good to give these away. Have a blessed New Year. Keep writing and singing.
— A FAN - bought 12 Hyim and The Fat Foakland Orchestra CDs 1-06

COLLEGE TESTIMONIALS
HYIM
HYIM and The Fat Foakland Orchestra

CSUMB:
"It was great talking to you today Linda, and hopefully we will be able to get Hyim out here. I've heard great things about him, and some students asked me to invite him. They had seen him play. It would be cool if he could come down here for our first annual Earth Day Music and Arts Festival." ....."Welcome aboard!"
Joshua White
Otter Student Union Programming Chair
California State University, Monterey Bay

SSU:
"The music was just great and the students really enjoyed it -- both times!" Hyim coming up a few days earlier for a solo "noon time teaser" outside was very cool. Having the band on Friday night for a full 2 hour show was awesome. Thank you so much -- really, really great!"
Katie O'Neill, Programming Assistant
Associated Students Productions
Sonoma State University

UCSC:
"Hyim was very easy going and very enjoyable to work with. He put on a great outdoor concert at the UC Santa Cruz campus for our Hillel and everyone had a great time grooving and dancing to the tunes. The music was upbeat, funny, original, with wonderful feelings and words. So much fun!"
Shalom Bochner, Executive Director
Santa Cruz Hillel

Santa Rosa Jr. College:
"Hyim was perfect for our event. His vibe and sound were the right mix for our event. I'm glad we could make it work. I will keep him in mind for anything else we do in the future."

"Hyim and his Orchestra provided the perfect musical atmosphere for our inaugural student orientation event. Not only were they easy to work with, but they had a groove that appealed to all audiences in our community college setting. Hyim's music with a message is the type of entertainment that all colleges should covet."
Robert Ethington, Director of Student Affairs and New Student Programs, Santa Rosa Junior College
"Thanks again for making this work," R.

SFSU:
"Thanks very much for performing for us here at San Francisco State University! The students were talking about you all and singing your praises this morning. It's very difficult to get our students on their feet and you managed to win them over in grand style! Congratulations! Hope we can have you back here next semester or in '07!!!"
Alison Victor
Depot Entertainment Manager

U of OR (from a couple of students):
"Hyim performed with ease and grace as he and the audience boogied down. He let a couple people on stage with him to drum (who had never played with him before) and he encouraged audience members to play instruments as well, which some did. The people who came to the show were glad they did and they said Hyim sounded like nothing they've heard before." "I liked Hyim's enthusiasm and passion for the music he was playing. His musical spirit got me into the spirit as well, and that made for a more enjoyable experience. There were times in the performance where I couldn't help but move my body, and Hyim was right there with me, shaking his groove thang on stage."
Jonah Schrogin
UO event organizer, graduate '06

U of WA:
"It was a great pleasure to meet Hyim. The students really enjoyed meeting him and he seemed to enjoy working with them as well. I look forward to working with you to bring him back here next year, maybe with his band and also for a session on Conflict Resolution."
Phillip J. Hunt Jr.
Senior Adviser Student Activities

"Hyim's chill attitude and passionate singing and playing was the perfect combination for a sunny Earth day celebration in Seattle. He got people up and grooving with his chunky guitar rhythms and melodic voice and really made a celebration of the Earth a celebration with a capital C! Thanks for EVERYTHING Linda!"
Peace,
Erinn Unger
Coordinator, UW Earth Week

Evergreen State University:
"Hyim was such a cool guy -- I really liked him and his performance." It was great that he was able to be here for Earth Day -- we all enjoyed him. I'll be back here in the fall, so we can talk about bringing him back -- solo or maybe w/his band. Thank you!"
David Hornbeck
Chapter Chair -- Event Coordinator

UC Davis
Press (before an upcoming show):
"Hyim & his band, The Fat Foakland Orchestra, will be getting crunk..."
California Aggie

www.myspace.com/hyim