BIOGRAPHY:

A troubadour of modern times, Mike Rauss makes music that is both playful and profound. Funk, folk, oriental melodies, and flamenco guitar are seamlessly woven together with his smooth voice and undeniable groove. Born in Israel and currently based in Barcelona, he grew up traveling with a nomadic family throughout the UK and Europe. His music has since spread all over the globe, and has been featured in renowned compilations such as Putumayo and international festivals like Fusion Festival in Germany. From Sweden to Mexico, audiences have been captivated by Mike’s charming mix of live looping, virtuosic guitar, beatbox, and soulful singing. He also tours regularly with his sister Kim as their successful duo KAYAM, in which they combine sweet sibling harmonies, harp and guitar.

OFFICAL STATEMENT:

Ahead of my concert at the Mantrafest festival coming up, I would like to make a few things clear.

The question of belonging and nationality has been with me since childhood. I don’t live in Israel, nor have I lived there for most of my life. I did not serve in the Israeli military. Being born somewhere or being raised by someone who is of a certain nationality does not make someone complicit in the crimes that a country has and is committing. I don’t represent the Israeli government, and neither do they represent me.

I know some believe that performing in Israel is an act of complicity. I see it differently. I don’t believe my refusal to play for an Israeli audience will reduce Palestinian suffering. What I can do, as a musician, is create spaces where music connects us beyond borders. This is what I can give, and you can decide whether to receive. 

My thoughts are with the Palestinian people – families, children, and communities who deserve to live free from fear, violence, starvation, and suffering. 

I believe deeply in the dignity, safety, and freedom of all people, everywhere. This includes Israelis, some of whom are friends, family, and colleagues of mine. 

I notice how my mental and emotional health is affected by engaging in this topic on social media, to the point where I can’t be present and supportive to the people in my immediate surroundings. I am not the victim here; all in all, I’m very privileged. But I want to be transparent in my intentions, my state of heart and mind, and my guiding principles. 

I’ve decided to perform, despite the efforts to discourage me from doing so. Music is what I can offer, and I will continue to do so, with the humility and sensitivity that this life’s lessons teach me.