One of the best parts to this job is meeting the many talented musicians that we do. This next musician certainly fits this bill. Meet bassist, composer, producer, and music educator, Shimon Ben-Shir. Shimon grew up in Israel where he was surrounded by the sounds of Middle Eastern music. Today, he brings his unique and fascinating background to music lovers all around the world. If you want to learn more about a diverse entertainer, then read this fantastic spotlight. Enjoy!

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you feel you contribute musically to the Indie Music Culture?

Shimon: It is great that we have more exposure opportunities, new music and wonderful talent to discover. Music is my life and my way of living, my personality and culture. I always put the art of music ahead of everything.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have build up over the years about you in the process?

Shimon: I think all of us Indie musicians enjoy the freedom of making our own artistic decisions. The advantage of being signed with major label will be bigger budget and day to day dealing with promotion/booking etc’. The love of music keeps me going and making living off of it is a blessing.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Shimon: I have to say that the music talks for itself. I feel that the Group and I work hard on our music and it is well accepted and respected by our fans.

Isaac: Name one element that will make you stand out from the rest of the musicians/artists in the music industry?

Shimon: I would say versatility, as my music naturally integrates different cultures, some of it from my birthplace - Israel, and other from the musicians I pick to perform with.

Isaac: Do you feel you have given it your best when pursuing your musical dreams so far? Why or why not?

Shimon: I think yes, as I’m still here making music. I love the process of composing, arranging recording, and performing music, My group started more then a decade ago and we still here unlike others.