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!