25 World Famous Israeli Singers Who Changed Music

Israel’s vibrant music scene is a rich tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences, blending traditional sounds with contemporary styles. Over the years, many Israeli singers have gained national and international recognition for their unique contributions to various genres, including pop, rock, folk, and world music.

From trailblazing pioneers who shaped the foundations of Israeli music to modern-day icons who bring global acclaim, these artists have left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural landscape.

This article explores the careers and legacies of some of the most famous Israeli singers, highlighting their impact and enduring influence on music both in Israel and around the world.

25 Most Famous Singers from Israel Who You Need to Hear

This list includes a mix of iconic, contemporary, and traditional Israeli artists who have made significant contributions to the music scene in Israel and beyond.

Here’s a list of 25 famous Israeli singers, spanning various genres and generations:

#1 Ofra Haza

Ofra Haza was an iconic Israeli singer who became an international star with her unique blend of traditional Yemeni Jewish music and contemporary pop. Born in Tel Aviv in 1957, Haza rose to fame in the late 1970s as the lead singer of the band Shechunat Hatikva Workshop Theater. Her breakthrough came in 1984 with the album Shirei Teiman (Songs of Yemen), which featured the hit “Im Nin’Alu.” The song became a global sensation, bringing her international acclaim and establishing her as a pioneer in world music.

Haza’s music was a fusion of Eastern and Western sounds, and she continued to record and perform until her untimely death in 2000. Her legacy remains strong in Israel and around the world, where she is remembered as one of the most influential voices in Israeli music.

#2 Arik Einstein

Arik Einstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest Israeli singers and songwriters of all time. Born in Tel Aviv in 1939, Einstein began his career in the early 1960s and quickly became a central figure in the Israeli music scene. He was a pioneer of Israeli rock music, blending Western rock and pop influences with Hebrew lyrics. Over his five-decade-long career, Einstein released numerous albums that became classics, including Shablool and Poozy.

Einstein’s voice, poetic lyrics, and collaborations with other prominent Israeli musicians, such as Shalom Hanoch, helped shape the sound of modern Israeli music. He passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy as the “voice of Israel” and an enduring influence on Israeli culture.

#3 Shlomo Artzi

Shlomo Artzi is one of Israel’s most beloved and successful singers, known for his deep, emotional voice and reflective lyrics. Born in 1949 in Moshav Alonei Abba, Artzi began his career in the late 1960s as a member of the Nahal entertainment troupe. His solo career took off in the 1970s, and he quickly became a leading figure in Israeli pop and rock music. With hits like “Atsov SheAni Lo Atsuv” and “Under Tropical Skies,” Artzi has captured the hearts of generations of Israelis.

His music often explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of life in Israel, making him a voice for many. Artzi has released numerous albums and continues to perform, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of Israeli music.

#4 Yehudit Ravitz

Yehudit Ravitz is a highly respected Israeli singer, songwriter, and producer who has been a prominent figure in the Israeli music scene since the late 1970s. Born in Be’er Sheva in 1956, Ravitz began her musical career in the military band The Southern Command, where she gained recognition for her powerful voice. She released her debut album, Sakharot, in 1979, which was met with critical acclaim. Ravitz’s music spans a variety of genres, including rock, pop, and ballads, and she is known for her ability to convey deep emotion through her songs.

Throughout her career, Ravitz has collaborated with other leading Israeli artists and has also worked as a music producer. Her influence on Israeli music is profound, and she continues to be an active and respected figure in the industry.

#5 Idan Raichel

Idan Raichel is a renowned Israeli musician, singer, and composer, best known for his project The Idan Raichel Project, which blends traditional Middle Eastern, Ethiopian, and other global sounds with modern pop music. Born in Kfar Saba in 1977, Raichel began his career as a keyboardist, but his big break came in 2002 when he formed The Idan Raichel Project. The project’s self-titled debut album, released in 2003, was a huge success in Israel and abroad, with hits like “Bo’ee” and “Mima’amakim” (Out of the Depths).

Raichel’s music is celebrated for its multicultural influences and messages of peace, love, and unity. He has become an ambassador of Israeli music worldwide, collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds and performing on international stages.

#6 Eyal Golan

Eyal Golan is one of the most popular and successful singers in Israel, known for his contributions to Mizrahi music, a genre that blends traditional Middle Eastern sounds with contemporary pop. Born in Rehovot in 1971, Golan began his music career in the mid-1990s, and quickly rose to fame with his distinctive voice and emotional delivery. His 1997 album, BeHofa’a Haya, was a major breakthrough, establishing him as a leading figure in Israeli music.

Over the years, Golan has released numerous hit albums and singles, earning him widespread acclaim and a massive fanbase. Despite controversies in his personal life, Golan remains a dominant force in the Israeli music scene, continuing to release new music and perform to sold-out audiences.

#7 Noa (Achinoam Nini)

Noa, born Achinoam Nini, is an internationally acclaimed Israeli singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and multilingual performances. Born in Tel Aviv in 1969, Noa spent part of her childhood in the United States, where she was exposed to a wide range of musical influences. She returned to Israel in her late teens and began her music career, quickly gaining recognition for her unique blend of pop, jazz, and Middle Eastern sounds.

Noa is perhaps best known for her collaborations with guitarist Gil Dor and for her role as a cultural ambassador, performing in multiple languages and promoting messages of peace and coexistence. Her music has earned her a devoted following in Israel and around the world.

#8 Sarit Hadad

Sarit Hadad is a leading figure in Israeli pop and Mizrahi music, known for her powerful vocals and energetic performances. Born in 1978 in Afula, Hadad began performing at a young age and quickly rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her unique blend of traditional Middle Eastern music and contemporary pop. Her hits, including “Ze Sheshomer Alay” and “Mefahed Alay,” have made her one of the most beloved and successful artists in Israel.

Hadad has released numerous albums and won several awards, solidifying her status as a major force in the Israeli music industry. Her influence extends beyond music, as she has also been a prominent judge on the Israeli version of The Voice.

#9 Meir Ariel

Meir Ariel was an influential Israeli singer-songwriter and poet, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and his contributions to Israeli folk and rock music. Born in 1942 in Kibbutz Mishmarot, Ariel began his career in the 1960s, initially writing songs for other artists before embarking on a solo career. His music often dealt with social, political, and existential themes, making him a voice of conscience in Israeli culture.

Ariel’s albums, including Shirei Chag Vamoed Ve’nofel and Rishumey Pecham, are considered classics, and his poetic approach to songwriting has inspired generations of Israeli musicians. Despite his death in 1999, Meir Ariel’s music continues to resonate with listeners, and his legacy as a poet-musician endures.

#10 Ivri Lider

Ivri Lider is a prominent Israeli pop singer, songwriter, and composer, known for his emotive voice and introspective lyrics. Born in Givat Haim in 1974, Lider began his career in the late 1990s with his debut album Melatef Umeshaker (Caressing and Lying), which quickly established him as a significant figure in Israeli pop music. His music often explores themes of love, identity, and personal struggle, resonating with a wide audience.

Lider is also known for his openness about his sexuality, becoming an important figure in Israel’s LGBTQ+ community. Over the years, he has released several successful albums, collaborated with other artists, and contributed to film soundtracks, cementing his place in Israeli music.

#11 Keren Peles

Keren Peles is a popular Israeli singer-songwriter and pianist, known for her heartfelt lyrics and piano-driven pop music. Born in Yavne’el in 1979, Peles studied music from a young age and began her career as a songwriter before releasing her debut album, If This Is Life, in 2006. The album was a commercial success, and Peles quickly became one of Israel’s leading pop artists.

Her music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, and she has been praised for her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Peles has released several successful albums and continues to be a prominent figure in the Israeli music scene.

#12 Shiri Maimon

Shiri Maimon is an Israeli pop singer, actress, and television personality who first gained national recognition as a contestant on the first season of Kokhav Nolad (A Star Is Born), the Israeli version of American Idol. Born in Haifa in 1981, Maimon finished as the runner-up on the show in 2003, which launched her music career. Her debut album, Shiri Maimon (2005), was a commercial success, featuring hits like “Ad Shetavin Oti” and “Hasheket Shenish’ar”.

Maimon represented Israel in the 2005 Eurovision Song Contest, where she placed fourth, further boosting her career. In addition to her music, she has also pursued acting and has served as a judge on The X Factor Israel.

#13 Dana International

Dana International is an Israeli pop singer and cultural icon, best known for winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998 with her hit “Diva.” Born Yaron Cohen in Tel Aviv in 1969, Dana transitioned in the early 1990s and became one of the first openly transgender performers to achieve mainstream success in Israel. Her music blends pop with Middle Eastern influences, and she quickly became known for her bold style and catchy tunes.

Dana International’s Eurovision victory was a groundbreaking moment, making her a symbol of LGBTQ+ rights and diversity in Israel and beyond. She continues to be an influential figure in Israeli pop music and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

#14 Moshe Peretz

Moshe Peretz is a popular Israeli singer, songwriter, and composer, known for his contributions to Mizrahi and pop music. Born in Tiberias in 1983, Peretz began his career in the early 2000s, and quickly rose to fame with his heartfelt ballads and upbeat pop songs. His 2008 album, Esh (Fire), was a major success, featuring hits like “Elayich” and “Esh”.

Peretz has since released several successful albums, becoming one of the leading voices in contemporary Israeli music. In addition to his music career, he has also served as a judge on the Israeli version of The X Factor, further cementing his status as a major figure in the Israeli entertainment industry.

#15 Rita

Rita, born Rita Yahan-Farouz in Tehran, Iran, in 1962, is one of Israel’s most celebrated pop and rock singers. She moved to Israel at a young age and began her music career in the 1980s, quickly becoming a household name with her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Her debut album, Rita, released in 1986, was a major success, featuring hits like “Shvil Habricha” and “Bo”. Rita’s music often blends Western pop with Middle Eastern influences, reflecting her Persian heritage and Israeli upbringing.

Over the years, Rita has released numerous albums, many of which have achieved critical and commercial success. She has also represented Israel in international performances and remains a beloved figure in the Israeli music industry. In addition to her music career, Rita has also ventured into acting and continues to be a prominent cultural icon in Israel.

#16 Harel Skaat

Harel Skaat is an Israeli pop singer and television personality who gained national fame as the runner-up on the second season of Kokhav Nolad (A Star Is Born) in 2004. Born in Kfar Saba in 1981, Skaat quickly became known for his smooth voice and emotional delivery. His debut album, Harel Skaat (2006), was a commercial success, featuring hits like “Ve’at” and “Kama Od Efshar.” Skaat’s music is characterized by its blend of pop and balladry, often exploring themes of love and personal introspection.

In 2010, Skaat represented Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Milim,” earning praise for his performance. Over the years, Skaat has continued to release successful albums and remains a prominent figure in Israeli pop music.

#17 David Broza

David Broza is a renowned Israeli singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his fusion of folk, rock, and flamenco influences. Born in Haifa in 1955, Broza grew up in Israel, Spain, and England, which significantly shaped his musical style. He gained national attention in the late 1970s with his hit song “Yihye Tov,” which became an anthem for peace during the Israeli-Egyptian peace process.

Broza’s music often reflects his commitment to peace and social issues, and he has been involved in numerous projects promoting coexistence and dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians. With a career spanning over four decades, Broza has released numerous albums in Hebrew, Spanish, and English, and remains an influential figure in both Israeli and international music.

#18 Netta Barzilai

Netta Barzilai is an Israeli singer and looping artist who gained international fame by winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2018 with her song “Toy.” Born in Hod HaSharon in 1993, Netta studied music from a young age and developed a unique performance style that incorporates live looping, electronic beats, and bold visuals. Her Eurovision victory brought her widespread recognition, and “Toy” became a global hit, praised for its empowering message and innovative sound.

Following her Eurovision win, Netta has continued to release music and perform internationally, solidifying her status as one of Israel’s most exciting contemporary artists. She is known for her vibrant personality and commitment to promoting self-confidence and individuality through her music.

#19 Yael Naim

Yael Naim is an Israeli-French singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and eclectic musical style, which blends folk, pop, and world music influences. Born in Paris in 1978 to Tunisian-Jewish parents, Naim moved to Israel at a young age, where she began her music career. She first gained international attention with her 2007 hit single “New Soul,” which became widely known after being featured in an Apple MacBook Air commercial.

Naim’s music often reflects her multicultural background, with lyrics in English, French, and Hebrew. She has released several critically acclaimed albums and continues to be a respected figure in the global music scene, known for her unique sound and artistic vision.

#20 Boaz Sharabi

Boaz Sharabi is an Israeli singer, songwriter, and composer, known for his deep, soulful voice and his contributions to Mizrahi and pop music. Born in Tel Aviv in 1947 to a Yemenite-Jewish family, Sharabi began his music career in the 1970s and quickly gained popularity with his emotive ballads and heartfelt lyrics. His hits, such as “Latet,” “Pamot Balev,” and “Etzli Hakol Beseder,” have become classics in Israeli music.

Sharabi’s music often blends traditional Middle Eastern melodies with contemporary pop, creating a sound that resonates with a wide audience. Over the years, he has released numerous successful albums and remains one of the most beloved and respected voices in Israeli music.

#21 Mosh Ben Ari

Mosh Ben Ari is an Israeli singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his fusion of world music, rock, and reggae. Born in Afula in 1970, Ben Ari grew up in a Yemenite-Jewish family and was exposed to a wide range of musical influences from a young age. He began his music career in the late 1990s as a member of the world music band Sheva, which gained a following for its blend of Middle Eastern, African, and Western sounds.

Ben Ari launched his solo career in 2001 with the album Ad Elay, which was well-received for its innovative mix of genres and spiritual themes. Over the years, he has released several successful albums and continues to be a prominent figure in Israeli music, known for his energetic live performances and positive messages.

#22 Ehud Banai

Ehud Banai is a celebrated Israeli singer-songwriter and musician, known for his poetic lyrics and unique fusion of rock, folk, and Middle Eastern music. Born in Jerusalem in 1953, Banai comes from a prominent family of artists and began his music career in the 1980s. His debut album, Ehud Banai and the Refugees (1987), became a landmark in Israeli rock, featuring songs like “Ir Miklat” and “Tip Tipa.” Banai’s music often reflects his deep connection to Israeli culture, history, and spirituality, resonating with a wide audience.

Over the years, Banai has released numerous albums, each showcasing his ability to blend personal storytelling with broader social and political themes. His work has earned him a loyal following and a place as one of Israel’s most influential musicians.

#23 Dudu Aharon

Dudu Aharon is a popular Israeli singer, songwriter, and composer, known for his contributions to Mizrahi and pop music. Born in Kiryat Ekron in 1984, Aharon began his music career in the mid-2000s and quickly rose to fame with his hit songs like “Kol Ha’Halomot” and “Tagidi.” His music often blends traditional Middle Eastern sounds with contemporary pop, appealing to a broad audience. Aharon’s energetic performances and catchy melodies have made him one of the leading figures in Israeli pop music.

In addition to his successful music career, Aharon has also been a mentor on the Israeli version of The Voice, further solidifying his status as a significant figure in the Israeli entertainment industry. His continued popularity and influence make him a key player in contemporary Israeli music.

#24 Yasmin Levy

Yasmin Levy is an internationally acclaimed Israeli singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and her work in preserving and modernizing Ladino music, the traditional music of Sephardic Jews. Born in Jerusalem in 1975 to a family of Ladino musicians, Levy began her career in the early 2000s, blending traditional Ladino songs with contemporary flamenco and world music influences. Her debut album, Romance & Yasmin (2000), received critical acclaim and introduced her unique sound to a global audience.

Levy’s music is deeply emotional, often exploring themes of love, loss, and longing. She has released several successful albums and continues to perform internationally, bringing Ladino music to new audiences and keeping the tradition alive.

#25 Yizhar Cohen

Yizhar Cohen is a pioneering Israeli pop singer, best known for winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1978 with the song “A-Ba-Ni-Bi.” Born in Tel Aviv in 1951, Cohen began his music career in the early 1970s and quickly became a popular figure in Israeli pop music. His Eurovision victory was a historic moment for Israel, marking the country’s first win in the competition and bringing international attention to Israeli music.

Cohen’s music is characterized by its upbeat, catchy melodies and his charismatic stage presence. Over the years, he has continued to perform and release music, maintaining his status as an influential figure in Israeli pop culture. His legacy as a Eurovision winner and a trailblazer in Israeli music endures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Israeli singer is known for blending traditional Yemeni music with modern pop?

Ofra Haza is famous for her unique fusion of traditional Yemeni Jewish music with contemporary pop, gaining international acclaim with hits like “Im Nin’Alu.”

Who is the Israeli singer that won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2018?

Netta Barzilai won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2018 with her song “Toy,” which became a global hit and brought her widespread recognition.

Which Israeli artist is recognized for modernizing Ladino music?

Yasmin Levy is renowned for her work in preserving and modernizing Ladino music, blending it with contemporary flamenco and world music influences.

Who is considered a pioneer of Israeli rock and has influenced generations of musicians?

Arik Einstein is widely regarded as a pioneer of Israeli rock, with a career that significantly shaped the sound of modern Israeli music.