Jewish rapper’s song celebrates Knicks mania in NYC

New York City is buzzing with excitement as the Knicks battle for the NBA championship, a fervor that has even inspired a new song from Jewish rapper Kosha Dillz. His track, "Parade," captures the city's blue and orange-clad enthusiasm, featuring scenes from pre-game and post-game fan celebrations.

Dillz, whose real name is Rami Even-Esh, is known for incorporating Jewish and Israeli themes into his music. His latest video includes nods to iconic New York spots like Katz's Deli and Lower East Side bagels, even referencing the 1990s hip hop group The Lox. The video opens with a symbolic blessing of bread, a basketball, and a Knicks flag, and Dillz is seen wearing a Hebrew shirt supporting Knicks guard Jalen Brunson.

The song's chorus echoes the Knicks' own anthem, "Go New York Go," originally recorded by Jewish entrepreneur Jesse Itzler. "Parade" also incorporates general city references, including a cameo by street performer Leh-Boy. Dillz submitted the song as part of a Knicks "fan album" competition, with winners to be featured on a team mixtape.

The intersection of Knicks mania and Jewish culture extends beyond Dillz's music. Kosher websites have guided fans to watch parties, and Orthodox Jewish groups have organized events featuring Knicks-themed music and dancing. Rapper Fat Joe observed a powerful sense of unity, noting Hasidic Jews breakdancing with Black kids outside the stadium, calling it a significant unification of New York City.

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I’ve seen Hasidic Jews breakdancing with Black kids outside the stadium. This is the greatest unification you’ve ever seen of this New York City in your life since 9/11.