Hip-Hop violinist Miri Ben Ari, Universal Motown Records and Reebok have joined forces to produce a new music video, “We Gonna Win," which premiered last week in New York City.
"In this video, it’s like I took real instruments to the next level. It’s the first Hip-Hop song where a violinist takes a verse,” Ben-Ari told AllHipHop.com.
Reebok’s involvement with Ben-Ari surpasses the typical product placements and the Israeli-born entertainer is the latest endorsee for Reebok’s "I Am What I Am" international advertising campaign. The promotion already includes 50 Cent, Jay-Z, Paul Wall and other entertainers and athletes.
The Reebok deal also serves as a marketing push for her debut album, The Hip Hop Violinist, features Ben-Ari’s unique instrumentation and guests like Lil’ Mo, Baby, Lil’ Wayne, Fabolous, Joe Budden, Dougie Fresh and Styles P, who appears on “We Gonna Win.”
Premiere party attendee Doug E. Fresh said he supports Ben-Ari’s music career and her efforts to create a new niche in Hip-Hop. "I’m happy that she’s doing what she’s doing. I love Hip-Hop since before it was even "hip-hop" so I’m [showing] her love," said Fresh.
Ben-Ari explained that she is merely grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of the culture. “I have a once in a lifetime opportunity to introduce people, kids to music. If it weren’t for me being in music videos, kids wouldn’t have the exposure to real music with real instruments. Music videos don’t have live music, [but] when I play, I play," said Ben-Ari.
Ben-Ari has already won a Grammy and worked with Jay-Z, Kanye West, Jennifer Lopez and Alicia Keys and others. She concluded that she wants her life to serve as a lesson to children and teens that anything is possible.
"I came here with no money, no family and had to learn English. People thought I was crazy for wanting to do what I’m doing,” she said. “I want kids – I’m talking to kids from the ‘hood – to know that things are possible and be original and authentic to who you are."
The Hip-Hop Violinist is in stores now.