Feinman shares, “’New Life’ tells my story as an artist—my transition from business school to Berklee College of Music, and then to pursuing music full-time. The music video for ‘New Life’ was created over the course of 60 years. Combining 8mm footage shot by my grandparents during the ‘60s and ‘70s with present-day footage, the film reveals a deeper story than anticipated. The storytelling juxtaposes the vintage 8mm cinema of people celebrating various life milestones against documentary footage of myself, a struggling troubadour, questioning the unpredictable path I’ve chosen. The song and video gain new weight in these uncertain times, as we are unable to enjoy physical gatherings with family and friends. We all yearn for a new life.” Watch now: Music grabbed Feinman, early. He began classical piano training at 6 years old, immersing himself in masters such as Debussy and Chopin. He studied piano for a decade including a stint with the legendary teacher and jazz pianist, Jimmy Amadie, then strode down the traditional path that stretched out before him: business school at the University of Richmond. But five credits shy of a business degree, he stopped and took stock. It didn’t feel right. Feinman applied to Berklee College of Music on a whim after some encouragement from a friend and was accepted. At Berklee, he designed his own major, focusing primarily on songwriting and performance. He fell in love with the earnest candor of ’70s songwriters—especially Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell and Randy Newman. His piano playing took on new dimensions of jazz, pop and blues, while his vocals settled into an easy confidence. Feinman’s new music benefits from those years at Berklee, from his childhood spent playing keys, and from his soul-shaking willingness to explore the pain and longing that define many adult experiences. He will return to performing for a live audience as soon as possible and will continue to write and record throughout 2021. Next, do people who are tone-deaf hear music differently?
