Israel Hour Radio - Israeli Music Podcast

Chag Sameach! Sukkot is known as “Zman Simchatenu” – the time of our joy. But after the year we’ve had – and with the yahrtzeit of those who lost their lives on October 7 coming up this week - joy is not so easy to come by nowadays. Still, we’re going to try to lift your spirits just a bit this holiday by playing Israeli songs that can INSTANTLY put a smile on your face. Some songs can magically transform your day, after just a few notes. Thanks to our wonderful Israeli Music Community on Facebook, we've curated a playlist of Israeli songs that are sure to help you smile through the pain - and just maybe, that's exactly what we need as we approach Simchat Torah 5784. (Original Air Date: October 20, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1206 Love the show? Please 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/

Whether or not you're a practicing Jew, we can all get behind the idea of praying for a good new year. That's why this year's Yom Kippur observance was probably the most meaningful, the most inspirational, the most powerful in most of our lifetimes. With concern for our troops in the north and south, Israel under constant missile fire, prayers for the 101 hostages held in Gaza, and increased antisemitism around the world, we certainly had a lot to pray for this year. So when Galgalatz radio asked its social media followers to share which songs were on their minds this past Yom Kippur, the 2,000+ responses they received really gave a good sense of the mental state of Israeli society right now. Today on Israel Hour Radio, we play some of the songs mentioned that were most impactful. (Original Air Date: October 13, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1205 Love the show? Please 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/

Each year around this time, we look back at the most popular Israeli music of the past Jewish year. This, however, was no ordinary year. With war, hostages, loss, and fear dominating the headlines all year long, the music of 5784 had to rise to the occasion - providing comfort, strength, and inspiration. Well, sort of. While many of the year's most popular songs did just that, others offered a short respite...a diversion from the tragedies that unfolded around us. So as we look back at the top songs of 5784 on the eve of the October 7 anniversary, you'll hear a mix of the meaningful and the mundane - because that's exactly what Israelis needed to hear, all year long. (Original Air Date: October 6, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1204 Love the show? Please 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/

Recorded on the day after Israel's elimination of Hassan Nasrallah, this podcast brings with it a wide range of emotions. We're elated over Israel's military success, but still feeling the pain of coming to Rosh Hashana with our hostages still not home. To make things worse, the anniversary of October 7th is only a few days away, and those painful memories are still very fresh in our minds. Yes, it's been a rough year for Israel, and for Jews around the world. But as we approach Rosh Hashana, we have the opportunity to look forward to a fresh start. So this week on Israel Hour Radio, the music you'll hear celebrates Israel's military might, prays for a good year ahead, longs for the return of our hostages, and closes the book on a year many of us would like to forget. Praying for a PEACEFUL 5785. Shana Tova! (Original Air Date: September 29, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1203 Love the show? Please 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/

After WAY too many weeks away, Israel Hour Radio is proud to return to the airwaves - broadcasting from Israel! While we were gone, Israel's best and brightest musical stars released some amazing new tunes. As always, we consider it our solemn duty to make sure you're caught up on the latest in Israeli music! Join us this week for a countdown of the most-played songs on Israeli radio, and walk away with a snapshot of what Israeli culture looks like RIGHT NOW. Yes, Israel is going through some tense times. But here at Israel Hour Radio, we celebrate Israeli culture in good times and bad...and as always, there's a lot to celebrate! (Original Air Date: September 22, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1202 Love the show? Please 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 Israel Hour Radio's annual AUGUST CHAGIGOT! Each week during the month of August, we'll devote our show to a particular topic in Israeli music. And today? We celebrate the Israeli weekend (regardless of how you celebrate it) with our Chagigat Shirei Shabbat...an hour of Israeli songs about Shabbat! While some spend their Saturdays immersed in prayer and study, others spend it at the beach, in the park, or in the club. For many, it's a combination of all of the above...with a festive Friday night dinner and quality family time at home. No matter how you spend your day, however, Shabbat in Israel is a very special time, with a feeling unlike anywhere else in the world. Shabbat Shalom! (Original Air Date: August 4, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1199 Love the show? Please 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/

The Summer Olympics are taking place this week in Paris, France, with the spirit of brotherhood, unity, multiculturalism, and competitiveness on full display around the world. These are values shared by every Israeli, and we wish more than anything that our biggest conflicts with other nations were settled on the playing field rather than the battlefield. Israelis love to sing about their own country, but they also love to sing about other countries they admire around the world. So this week on Israel Hour Radio, in the spirit of multiculturalism - and in hopes for world peace - we bring you Israeli songs about countries around the world. Fasten your seatbelt, because we're taking you on a whirlwind journey to France, England, Iceland, Brazil, the UAE, Greece, and many more exciting destinations! You don't even need your passport! (Original Air Date: July 28, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1198 Love the show? Please 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/

This week on Israel Hour Radio, it’s the return of MY ISRAELI PLAYLIST...where our listeners share their favorite Israeli songs of all time! This time, please welcome Debbie Corwin of Mahwah, NJ! Debbie first visited Israel was with her family on a two week vacation when she was 10 years old. She then spent 7 1/2 weeks in Israel with a ZOA program, 'Summer in Moshav', when she graduated high school. She's been back to Israel 11 times since then, most recently this past March. Since 2011, she and her husband, Jan, have been involved with Zahal Shalom, a non-profit organization that brings 10 wounded Israeli veterans to live with host families in Northern New Jersey. They now serve on the Executive Board. The 2024 Zahal Shalom delegation just returned to Israel, and Debbie and Jan were honored to have hosted their 8th veteran. Debbie graduated University of Delaware as a music major and had an eleven year career in the music industry in New York. She worked for Tony-award winning playwright Rupert Holmes, serving as the production coordinator, script editor, musical supervisor and orchestrations assistant for three Broadway shows written by Rupert. The highlight of her music career was working with Barbra Streisand in 1990. She then went on to have a successful 20-year career in senior living, before working as the Director of Israel Engagement at the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. While working there, she met and began working with Israeli musician, Gilad Segev. Debbie is thrilled to share her favorite Israeli music this week on Israel Hour Radio! (Original Air Date: July 21, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1197 Love the show? Please 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 2024 is here...and amidst the backdrop of war, hostages, and global antisemitism, Israelis are still prepared to celebrate the season in the only way they know how: By celebrating LIFE with MUSIC. The sounds of summer 2024 in Israel are surprisingly similar to those of any other year - with upbeat tunes to accompany you to the beach, the pool, or anywhere you go to enjoy the season! This week, you'll hear from Netta Barzilai, Noa Kirel, Anna Zak, Sarit Hadad, Narkis, and many more. Plus - Josh is back in New Jersey for a few weeks, and that means he's broadcasting from his 'happy place'...the studios of 88.7 WRSU! Doesn't the show sound better from there? (Original Air Date: July 14, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1196 Love the show? Please 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/

OK, reality check. 2009 was FIFTEEN years ago. Yup, you heard that right. While it may seem like only yesterday to many of us, 2009 marked a significant year in history and music, leaving a lasting impact on our lives (and our Spotify playlists!). It was also the year Michael Jackson passed away, former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was indicted for corruption, and Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th President of the United States. What were the most popular Israeli songs of 2009? Let’s take a trip in the Israeli Music Time Machine - and a walk down memory lane — to find out! What are your memories and milestones of 2009? (Original Air Date: July 7, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1195 Love the show? Please 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 this special episode, we pay tribute to Naomi Shemer, one of Israel's most beloved songwriters and composers, on the 20th anniversary of her passing. Often hailed as the 'First Lady of Israeli Song,' Naomi Shemer's music has left an indelible mark on Israeli culture. Join us as we celebrate her life and legacy through her timeless songs that continue to resonate with listeners of all ages. We'll delve into her most iconic compositions, including 'Yerushalayim Shel Zahav' (Jerusalem of Gold), 'Lu Yehi' (Let It Be), 'Al Kol Eleh' (Over All These), and so many more. We'll share stories behind the music, and reflect on the profound impact she had on the Israeli music scene. Tune in to honor and remember Naomi Shemer, whose melodies and lyrics remain a cherished part of Israel's cultural heritage. (Original Air Date: June 30, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1194 Love the show? Please 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/

This week on the podcast, we turn up the volume and get ready to belt it out! We put the call out to our amazing listeners in the "Israeli Music Community" Facebook group, asking for your favorite Israeli songs to sing along to at the top of your lungs. We got some amazing responses! This week on Israel Hour Radio, get ready for a playlist packed with iconic tunes, new favorites, and hidden gems – all chosen by YOU! We'll be singing along to the songs that make you reminisce, dance, and celebrate our beloved State of Israel. Start warming up your vocal chords, and get ready to sing along! (Original Air Date: June 23, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1193 Love the show? Please 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/

'If you're going on a ten hour road trip, and can only listen to ONE Israeli artist...who's it gonna be?' Such was the question we recently asked on Israeli Music Community, our popular Israeli music discussion group on Facebook. And, wow! Did we get some great responses! With the tragic news of the day still heavy on our minds, permit us present a bit of a diversion this week. On the latest episode of Israel Hour Radio, we're counting down the artists with the most votes in our very unscientific poll. Oh, and we're only playing UPBEAT songs by these great artists, to help infuse some much-needed positivity into your day. Download, listen, and smile - you might just find some musical inspiration for your upcoming summer road trip! (Original Air Date: June 16, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1192 Love the show? Please 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/

Remember the music of the 'good old days'? You know, those blissful days before the world changed forever? We're referring, of course, to the Israeli music released BEFORE October 7. Back then, Israeli songs were generally fun and light, with songs about love and relationships. Although the past several months have been chock full of powerful, inspirational songs, many Israeli artists are slowly transitioning back to the days of old, with songs that are rather, well, meaningless. And y'know...that may be just what the doctor ordered right now. This week on Israel Hour Radio, we look back at the most played songs on Israeli radio over the past week. Surprisingly, almost all of them have NOTHING to do with the war and October 7...a refreshing change of pace from what we've gotten used to lately. It's time to get reacquainted with Israeli music! (Original Air Date: June 9, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1191 Love the show? Please 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/

Each year, there is so much emotional Israeli music that emerges in commemoration of Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut. Between new original songs, musical tributes at state ceremonies, and performances at other events around the country, it can be difficult to keep up with it all. This year, however, was no ordinary year. Israel's Memorial Day was more somber than ever, and Independence Day took on a very different significance. So it only makes sense that we take a second week to explore the meaningful music that provided the soundtrack to this very important week. You'll hear uplifting songs celebrating our homeland, gut-wrenching songs mourning our losses, and new takes on classic songs that remind us of what we are fighting for. You'll also hear Eden Golan (finally) sing the original 'October Rain' - performing this year's Israeli Eurovision entry as it was always meant to be heard. Fasten your seatbelts for yet another emotional roller coaster ride, this week on Israel Hour Radio. (Original Air Date: May 19, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1190 Love the show? Please 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 recorded this episode moments before Yom HaZikaron began in Israel, not sure of what to expect in this very strange and difficult year. So much has happened since last year's national 'high holiday season' in Israel. So much pain, so much fear, so much destruction, so much anxiety. How can we bear the burden of Memorial Day this year? How can we CELEBRATE Independence Day in a year like this? Well, perhaps music can help. This year, Israel's musical community has worked hard to create songs that capture this year's unique spirit, from sounds of pain to sounds of pride. Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut may be behind us, but this week's songs will help you hold on to the powerful emotions you’ve undoubtedly felt all week long – and throughout the past seven months. (Original Air Date: May 12, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1189 Love the show? Please 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 does it mean to be a hero? What does it mean to be a JEWISH hero? And what can we learn about heroes from the tragic events of October 7? This week, we are honored to welcome Israeli singer Gilad Segev, creator of "Project Heroes". Ever since October 7, Gilad has spent his time gathering heroic stories from that Black Shabbat...stories of heroes who sacrificed their own lives to save countless others. These stories inspired Gilad so much that he set many of them to music, and now he's presenting them in a series of special concerts throughout the US and Canada. Gilad has a lot to say about the lessons our heroes can teach us. Don't miss this inspiring interview! (Original Air Date: May 5, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1188 Love the show? Please 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/

Passover is here, and by all accounts, this year's celebration will be a lot different than most years'. Like every year, we'll gather around the seder table with family and friends. But this year, so many will be missing from the table. This year, we'll save empty seats for hostages and for active soldiers, all who SHOULD be joining our seder. We'll also see many empty seats, vacated by the souls we lost on October 7. As Israel remains under attack, our observance of Passover is marked by a strange mix of celebration, frustration, and trepidation. Have we ever experienced Pesach quite like this? As we celebrate Passover 5784 on Israel Hour Radio, sure, we'll share the usual mix of joyous Pesach favorites. But this year, we also include new songs for 5784, with painful reminders of our loved ones who are missing from the table. (Original Air Date: April 21, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1187 Love the show? Please 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/

This week, we acknowledge a grim milestone: six months since the October 7 massacre, kidnapping of hostages, and the resulting Operation Swords of Iron. As we watch events unfold, we remain sick with worry for the safety of our brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world. At the same time, we stand united in the belief that the State of Israel will emerge from this conflict stronger than before. In expressing a roller coaster of emotions, the music of this conflict has been nothing short of inspiring. This week, a recap of the most significant songs of the past six months, with prayers for a brighter future. (Original Air Date: April 14, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1186 Love the show? Please 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/

With Israel still very much at war, the country's 'new normal' continues to permeate its music. Yes, some of the new music is very raw, very painful, and very powerful. Other songs are as seemingly as mundane as can be, as Israeli music continues to shift onto topics other than the war. Still, nearly every song you hear these days can be interpreted differently due to today's complicated reality. Take, for example, Israel's 2024 Eurovision entry, 'Hurricane.' Even though the song sounds completely 'pareve,' we all know it's about Israel's current state of affairs and the pain so many of us are feeling. You'll hear the song this week, along with many other new releases...all guaranteed to make you think, make you cry, make you smile, and make you connect to Israel on a deeper level. (Original Air Date: March 17, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1185 Love the show? Please 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/