Israel's Eurovision Journey
Israel began its Eurovision journey in 1973, and has triumphantly won the contest 4 times now. It's clear that Israeli music has been making quite the splash around the world!
Israel's first big debut was in 1978, winning the contest with the song “A ba ni bi,” written by Izhar Cohen and the Alphabeta Sing. Today, this oldies has become one of the most popular classic Israeli songs. It even has a folk dance to go with it!
Check it out here- you'll be getting up and dancing in no time!
Because of Israel's phenomenal win in 78, the next year they were honored with hosting the competition in Jerusalem for the Eurovision competition in 79!
Due to political pressure from Arab countries, Turkey withdrew their participation - but the 19 other countries who participated in 1978, showed up, making it a magical event.
But what made it even more magical was Israel's 2nd win, two years in a row!! This time with the famous song, “Hallelujah”, sung in Hebrew by the Israeli band Milk and Honey. It was later translated and released in English for the rest of the world to enjoy the joys of Israeli music!
Hallelujah!
Enjoy listening!
English Translation:
Hallelujah
Hallelujah to the world
Hallelujah, everyone will sing
With one single word
The heart is filled with much gratitude
And it also pounds: what a wonderful world
Hallelujah with the song
Hallelujah for a day that shines
Hallelujah for all that has been
And all that is yet to come
Hallelujah
Hallelujah to the world
Hallelujah, everyone will sing
And the great bells
Will echo with many sounds
And with us they will say Hallelujah
Hallelujah with the song
Hallelujah for a day that shines
Hallelujah for all that has been
And all that is yet to come
Hallelujah
Hallelujah for everything
Praise tomorrow and yesterday
Hallelujah and hold each other's hands
And sing from one heart
Hallelujah
Hallelujah with the song
Hallelujah for a day that shines
Hallelujah for all that has been
And all that is yet to come
Hallelujah
Hallelujah for all that has been
And all that is yet to come
Hallelujah
Later, in 1998, Israel won its third round of the competition with the song "Diva" by Dana International. Check it out here!
And of course, last but not least, our pride and joy Netta Barzilai, who brought home the win for Israel in 2018, with her hit song "Toy". Her music is unique and funky, upbeat and fun- using looping skills and repeating sound sections- making it a hit all around the world!
Here is her Eurovision debut!
Israeli music has been making its way around the world, and we can't wait to see how far we will go in the future!
