The First Israeli Reggaeton Music Star Singer -Orel Elhadad, talks about her New single titled “Paka Paka,” a fusion of Middle East sounds and Latin Rhythms
As part of our interview Series “Inspiring success stories,” I enjoyed interviewing Orel Elhadad. Orel is a Middle East artist with a Latin soul who has created a captivating musical fusion in her latest single, “Paka Paka,” combining the sounds of Israel with infectious Latin rhythms. Orel proudly holds the distinction of being the first and only singer from the Middle East within the urban genre on a global scale. Within this realm, she embodies the spirit of a warrior and an independent woman, fearlessly expressing her truth and captivating audiences with her artistic prowess.
Thank you for joining us today, Orel! Please briefly outline for our readers your life’s backstory.
Orel: Thank you for the invitation and the opportunity to share my story. I am Orel Aviv Elhadad, an Israeli Jew with a Latin soul. My story in music began seven years ago in Mexico and Colombia. This journey made me deal with unusual crazy difficulties and challenges daily, a journey that built and broke me a million times. This Journey taught me the power of will, faith, and discipline; the most important thing is to stay true to yourself and your values in life. It’s been seven years in which I am the master of my life project, an independent artist, the agency, the main investor who, with two hands without anyone’s help, I decided to take a journey that no one has done before and to be the First Israeli Reggaeton singer in the world and represent the entire Middle East.
Your brief story is fascinating, and I also understand that your “Discipline” started many years back… Please share with our global readers.
Orel: Discipline is the thing that came across my path and accompanied me since 14 years old, as I started working at 17 years old. I left Israel for the first time and started working in sales. At the age of 18, I joined the Army.
Undoubtedly, one of the best times of my life was when I was a Commander during my military service and had to deal with and manage “problematic soldiers” from a highly complex background. There is no doubt the Military Service experience shaped my personality and made me become the proud and robust girl that I am today. Since my service in the Army, I always beat the sunrise and wake up at 4 am daily. I keep my Discipline and Never give up.
You recently released an extraordinary single titled “Paka Paka,” a fusion of Israeli sounds and Latin rhythms. Can you tell us more about this release?
Orel: Yes. “Paka Paka” is a fusion of Israeli sounds and Latin rhythms. It skillfully blends Israel’s vibrant beats and melodies with the distinctive flavors of Latin music in the urban genre. The result is a harmonious amalgamation that energizes the senses and compels listeners to sway to the rhythm. “Paka Paka” holds a profound meaning, as it represents a talkative individual in Hebrew and translates to “Bla bla” in Spanish, capturing the essence of those who incessantly speak without taking meaningful action. This relatable concept hopes to strike a chord with audiences who have encountered individuals caught in a cycle of empty words and unfulfilled promises.
You also made an accompanying music video. What was the inspiration behind that?
Orel: The inspiration was just like writing a song, and my music video illustrates many chaotic situations that I had to deal with, including the “studio rental location.” The story in my music video shows a few characters: The first one is myself, the “Artist,” and the second one is also (me) the “Real Orel.” The third character is the studio owner “Paka Paka” (trying to impress me with his luxury Cars, watches, etc.). The fourth character is the photographer that captured my heart (in the video) with his authentic and direct personality.
I also wanted to share that my music video production took about three months to manage and complete. Remember, it was literally from scratch, the idea, song, script, fabrics, costumes, dances, photographers, locations, set design, etc.
As an independent artist, I am obliged to do everything myself…. There is no doubt that this is a challenging and powerful experience.
Wow! That’s a brilliant display of music and art. What are some significant feats and achievements you’re so proud of?
Orel: Continuing my successful journey, I have built upon previous collaborations like “Pasarla bien” and “Cabrona,” which was produced by Gangsta, including “Sin Comentarios,” featuring Arcángel, produced by Andy Clay. These achievements testify to my unwavering dedication and unbridled passion for music.
In the dawn of 2023, I embarked on a new chapter, ready to conquer the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide, inviting them to revel in the sheer brilliance of my compositions. My unwavering determination and profound connection to the Latin culture I adore allow me to bring a unique and captivating perspective to the reggaeton genre.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in recent years?
Orel: Three years ago, in 2020, a month after I released our song with Archangel… Sadly, I discovered that my dear partner (boyfriend) was in a hospital in Houston, Texas. Three days later, he passed away; as you can imagine, my life was at a standstill. That was when the Corona Virus epidemic started, and it caused my two businesses to close down! At that time, I felt like everything was crushing me, and no air to breathe. It’s like starting from scratch, completely broken, and without a drop of energy.
In brief, I can honestly say that what truly saved me during the terrible experience situation, was the music because that is what gave me the “new air” to breathe, the motivation to get up in the morning, the strength to continue to believe, and my heart to heal. My unbreakable spirit, with unyielding resilience, made me an even more robust version of myself, ready to leave an indelible mark on the music industry and the world, give a lot of willpower, and inspire millions of women.
What are the “ 5 Topics you wish someone had shared with you when You first started,” and why?
1 . To know that no matter how much I share with everyone, until you experience, you do not learn; this industry is undoubtedly a field where you must experience, fall, get up, and fall again to know how to walk.
2. Discipline!!! The secret of success for everything in my life, everything I achieved was with the help of discipline and never-ending willpower
3. Don’t give up no matter how many doors close in your face; in the end, door number 100 is the right one
4. Bring something different with you, something that doesn’t exist, be as much you as possible in the most authentic way possible, don’t try to imitate anyone, you’ll be more different, you’ll be more unique and special
5. Be the change you wish to see in the world.. it’s my tatu … the best tip I can share with the world…
You probably have great Tips to recommend to your colleagues in the music industry to help them thrive and not “burn out?”
Orel: I can suggest a few general topics that would be helpful for aspiring singers and performers to know;
1. Networking — Building connections and relationships within the music industry are essential. Attend events, collaborate with other musicians, and meet industry professionals.
2. To know that there are no rules… no menu says what is right and what is wrong, there are dictionaries of ways to succeed, and they are all correct.
3. listen to your heart, to your intuition, don’t let anyone tell you if you are good or not, and don’t stop believing
4. Try to attach to yourself as many good people as possible who believe in you and delegate authority (one of my biggest mistakes was trying to do everything by myself)
5. Business skills — Understanding the basics of business skills, such as contracts, negotiations, and financial management, will come in handy in navigating the music industry.
Overall, the music industry is highly competitive, but building your skills, networking, and promoting yourself can make a big difference in standing out and building a successful music career.
How can our readers and “new fans” keep up with you on social media and enjoy more of your unique, entertaining music?
Orel: Thank you! Please connect with me and embark on an enchanting musical journey by visiting my social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify.
Immerse yourself in the captivating melodies and vibrant rhythms that define my creative vision. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this exhilarating musical experience!
