Israel Hour Radio - Israeli Music Podcast

Ever since Operation Swords of Iron began, the situation has pulled our hearts and emotions in a gazillion different directions. On one hand, we're mourning the massive loss of life on October 7, and are worried sick about our hostages. On the other hand, we are bursting with pride for the brave IDF soldiers fighting for our freedom. Many Israelis are finding their spiritual voices, some for the very first time. Add the euphoria of some of the hostages coming home, and you suddenly find your heart being pulled down every possible pathway. Israeli music continues to latch onto each of these emotions, with songs that are spiritual, mournful, optimistic, proud, and just about everything in between. We continue to connect you to the vibe of today's Israel - as complicated as it may be. (Original Air Date: November 26, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1170 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

For most of us who care about Israel, the past few weeks have been a roller coaster, to say the least. One minute we're deeply depressed, the next we're uplifted by the bravery and courage of the IDF. Along the way, we've probably felt every emotion in between. That's been the vibe in Israel ever since October 7, and that's been the theme of the music we've played over the past few weeks. This week, however, we thought it would be nice to focus on the positive, just for a bit. So with your help, we've assembled a playlist of Israeli songs of strength, positivity, unity, and optimism. No, these songs don't erase the sadness. But for an hour-long respite from the roller coaster, they might be just what the doctor ordered. Consider it a musical prescription to lift your spirits. (Original Air Date: November 19, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1169 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

30 days since the 'Black Shabbat' of October 7, 2023, and it's not getting any easier. The images continue to haunt us, the hostage crisis continues to infuriate us, and the soldiers continue to inspire us. But as usual, music is there to unite us. Yes, the songs can be painful, heart-wrenching, and emotional, but they connect us to Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael in a very powerful and meaningful way. This week, we present more songs inspired by the events surrounding Operation Swords of Iron, performed by many of your favorite Israeli artists. These truly are songs you can FEEL...songs that, indeed, help build a stronger Israel. (Original Air Date: November 5, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1167 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

As Operation Swords of Iron enters its fourth week, Israel's artists continue to work overtime to boost morale in the country. Some perform in hospitals for injured soldiers, some perform on army bases, some perform online for fans around the world. But in the midst of it all, they also release new songs to help us cope with this very uncertain time - and we couldn't be more grateful. Their new songs will make you cry, make you think, and make you proud to be a supporter of the State of Israel. Join us for strength through music! (Original Air Date: October 29, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1166 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Israel's musical community is amazing. When tragedy strikes in Israel, they are always there to help us cope with the grief. So as Israel's war against Hamas continues, Israel's top musical artists have sprung into action. This past week, some of our favorite artists released an impressive selection of songs to capture - and elevate - the somber mood of the country. These emotional songs will make you cry, inspire you, and fill you with pride during this difficult time. While the songs themselves are powerful, we highly suggest you watch the accompanying music videos for an even more impactful experience. Grab some tissues, and find all of the YouTube videos for this week's show at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1165 (Original Air Date: October 22, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1165 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

We return to you this week with very mixed emotions. On one hand, it's Josh's first show since making Aliyah, and he's thrilled to be back. On the other hand, Israel is at war - one that threatens its very survival. It's been a VERY rough week in Israel to say the least, and at the very least, we could all use a 'musical hug'. Join Josh on his very first broadcast from his home studio in Israel, as he shares the music he's been hearing on the radio this week along with your song requests. He'll also share his thoughts on watching the conflict unfold from the other side of the Mediterranean. (Original Air Date: October 15, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1164 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Welcome to August Chagigot 2023! Each week during the month of August, we devote an episode of Israel Hour Radio to a particular topic in Israeli music, and with your help, create a playlist of songs about that topic. With only three more live shows to go before Josh makes Aliyah, we thought it would be fun to kick things off this year with a 'Chagigat Shirei Nesiya' - a celebration of songs about travel. Sometimes the journey is as exciting as the destination, and these songs will help transform any adventure into a fun, exciting ride! Nesiya Tova - have a great trip! (Original Air Date: August 6, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1163 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Just a few days after Tisha B'av, the saddest day on the Jewish calendar, Jewish tradition offers a fun season of love. Tu B'av, a holiday on which Jewish women traditionally would come out and look for mates, has become something of a Jewish Valentine's Day. It's also the perfect time to devote an episode of Israel Hour Radio to the best Israeli love songs of all time. Who doesn't love a good, cheesy love song? We're playing all of your favorites old and new, so hold on to this episode for your next date night, or for an evening of snuggling with someone you love. (Original Air Date: July 30, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1162 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Summer is here, and the Israeli music is getting HOT! The stars are out this week, all competing to become THE 'go-to' song of summer 2023. Competing for the title? Artists like Hatikva 6, Stephane Legar, Omer Adam, Noa, Netta, Narkis, Nunu, and many more! These are the songs that will be ALL OVER Israel this summer, blaring at the beach, the pool, the cafe, and in your earbuds all summer long! Your next favorite Israeli song is waiting! Looking for music to make your summer sizzle? Start here. (Original Air Date: July 9, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1160 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

On April 19, 2023, the Israeli music world lost one of its most creative and accomplished minds, as poet and lyricist Yehonatan Geffen passed away at age 76. Yehonatan was responsible for some of the most famous Israeli songs ever written, with classic Israeli songs for adults and children alike. As Israel Radio's Benny Dudkevitch commented, 'Israel grew up on his songs.' This week on Israel Hour Radio, we feature many of Yehonatan Geffen's most popular songs, sung by artists like Miri Mesika, Arik Einstein, Yehuda Poliker, Rita, and his close friend, David Broza. We'll delve into the music that brought Geffen's words to life, exploring his most cherished compositions and collaborations. Immerse yourself in his iconic songs that became anthems for countless Israelis, reflecting the country's diverse history and profound emotions. (Original Air Date: June 25, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1159 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Our listeners pick their favorite Israeli songs! This time, we're pleased to introduce you to Breandan Ward of London, who has a very interesting Israeli music journey to share! Breandan grew up on a dairy farm in Ireland and moved to London after college where he worked in investment banking for 10 years before later moving to New York. His first encounter with Hebrew and Judaism happened when he met Israelis during a backpacking trip to Australia in 2002, around the same time as he started losing his sight due to an inherited eye disease. Inspired by both the similarities and tensions of the Irish and Jewish 'clan' mentalities, Breandan started learning Hebrew and Torah, and twenty years on, feels at home in the common experience of joys and sorrows of Israel and the Middle East as expressed through its music. (Original Air Date: June 18, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1158 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Seems like just yesterday to some, but 1998 was 25 years ago. It was the year Google was founded, 'Titanic' was a hit in theaters, and Monica Lewinsky was a household name. But what songs were playing on Israeli radios 25 years ago? This week, we set the dials on our Israeli Music Time Machine to 1998, and play some of Israel's biggest songs of the year. You'll hear songs by Eyal Golan, Ethnix, and Ben Artzi (who was HUGE that year), and a little song by Dana International...that made international news that year. What are your memories from 1998? (Original Air Date: June 11, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1157 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

In our weeks-long celebration of Israel's 75th, we neglected to keep you up-to-date with the amazing NEW music coming out of Israel. It's time to correct that injustice right now! This week, Israel Hour Radio proudly presents a countdown of the top 15 songs of the week, based on the songs that received the most airplay in Israel this past week. And what a list it is! You'll hear new tunes by Static, Netta Barzilai, Keren Peles, Hanan Ben Ari, a beautiful song by Aviv Geffen in memory of his father, and much more. What's your favorite new song of the week? Listen and let us know! (Original Air Date: May 28, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1155 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

What's your favorite Israeli song of all time? Last week, we brought you part one of the results from Kan Gimmel radio's recent countdown of listeners' favorites, and today, we're proud to bring you part two. Each song is a classic, each instantly recognizable, and most are very singable! In honor of Israel's 75th, enjoy this exciting countdown of the most popular Hebrew songs of all time - counting down all the way to number one! What do you think of the results? Be sure to let us know! (Original Air Date: May 21, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1154 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Could you compile a list of your favorite Israeli songs of all time? Not so easy, right? Well, in honor of Israel's 75th, Kan Gimmel radio recently asked listeners to do just that - to vote for their favorite Israeli songs of all time. On Yom Ha'atzmaut 2023, they counted down the top 75 live on the radio, and we think you'd enjoy hearing some of the results. So this week, we're kicking off two weeks of the greatest Israeli songs of all time, as chosen by Kan Gimmel listeners. Any predictions on what song made number one? What do you think of the results? Be sure to let us know! (Original Air Date: May 7, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1153 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Israel's 75th birthday is finally here, and it's time to kick back and CELEBRATE the miracle and the magic of the modern State of Israel. And if you ask us, there's no better way to celebrate than by listening to uplifting, inspirational, and FUN Israeli music! This week, we kick off our celebration of Israel's 75th with songs marking this exciting milestone in the history of the country. Most of the songs are brand new, and they're all powerful and uplifting. Join us for a star-spangled musical tribute to our beloved homeland, and spend Yom Ha'atzmaut 2023 with us! (Original Air Date: April 23, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1152 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Chag Sameach! The holiday of Passover is here to remind us of the blessing of freedom...bringing with it some darn good music. The songs of the seder are simply legendary, with melodies that just about everyone knows and loves. But when your favorite Israeli singers bring their own unique styles to these beloved melodies, the result is beautiful and inspirational. Grab a slice of matzah or a macaroon, tune in this week for your favorite songs of the season, and get ready to sing along! (Original Air Date: April 9, 2023) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1151 Love the show? Help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Mother’s Day? Father’s Day? They're nice and all, but we can do better. Around the year 2000, it was decided that Yom HaMishpacha - Family Day - would be celebrated in Israel on the 30th of Shevat. Ever since, Israelis enjoy the day as an opportunity to celebrate our beautiful families. In honor of the occasion, we've put together a fun playlist of family collaborations in Israeli music. Husbands and wives, parents and children, an aunt and nephew, siblings, cousins...it's all here this...

Our listeners share their favorite Israeli songs...and this time, we're pleased to welcome Allison Rusgo to the Israel Hour Radio studios! Allison lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where she works as a university professor. She was born in Manhattan but grew up in Charlotte, NC after moving there with her family in the early 1990s. Allison attended Camp Judaea (CJ) in Hendersonville, NC for many summers as a camper and staff member, where she developed a strong connection to Eretz Yisrael...

Just a week in Israel. Sometimes it's all you need to recharge your batteries and fall in love with the country all over again. Josh is back from a week in Israel, and is so excited to share the music he heard along the way. Is there anything special, meaningful, or inspirational about the playlist? No, not at all. But when you're sitting in a restaurant in Israel, and a song you love comes on...there's just nothing like it. Come along on the journey with us this week, and tell us...what's...