What comes to your mind when you hear the words “Israeli music”? I am sure that most of you will hear the sounds of “Hava Nagila,” Shabbat songs, and maybe a Mizrachi tune. But Israeli music is much more than that. Today, Israeli artists are playing hip hop, rock, pop, jazz, electronic music, and every other style that you can think of.

In the past, Israeli music became more and more popular among different segments of the Israeli society. Following the “matzav,” the situation in Israel, a lot of artists began promoting their opinions through music, so you can hear a lot of songs referring to political, social, and economic issues, as well as a lot of songs referring to Zionism and the love of the land. Through these songs you can learn a lot about current events and the Israeli society with all its diversity.

Another phenomenon that became a central part of the culture of music in Israel is the show Cochav Nola (A Star is born) – the Israeli version of American Idol. All the contestants are Israelis, the songs are in Hebrew, the judges are mean, the crowd is big, and there is a lot of good spirit (ruach). Cochav Nola is now a part of every home in Israel. Just like in America, the show broke all records and developed young singers and great songs.

In addition to the variety of Israeli music, Israeli teens like to listen to American music. Artists like Eminem, Justin Timberlake, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Destiny Child, Britney Spears, and more are constantly being played at the Israeli radio stations.

If you have questions about life in Israel or would like to speak directly with Keren, please contact her at .

Keren Dicastro’s Biography
 
My name is Keren Dicastro. I am 19 years old. I was born in Rishon Le Zion and still live there with my family. I have a younger brother named Daniel who is 14 and my parents are Nurit and Maurizio. I spent the last year between high school and the army volunteering in the Jewish community of MetroWest (in New Jersey). After coming back from my volunteer service in America I have since joined the Israeli Army. I am currently in a course to instruct soldiers in the engineering unit. During my free time I like to spend time with my family and friends, draw, and hike all over Israel.