Iconic Israeli Rock Meets Selichot in Tel Aviv
In a moment that brought together the worlds of rock and prayer, Berry Sakharof appeared at Beit HaKnesset Ezekiel, a synagogue in Tel Aviv, for a rare Selichot performance on the eve of Yom Kippur. Known as one of Israel’s pioneering rock musicians and the former driving force behind Fortis & Sakharoff, Sakharof’s appearance drew attention not just for the setting, but for the atmosphere it created as worshipers prepared for the fast.
A Rare, Spirit-Focused Evening
Although Sakharof is not typically described as one of the most devout adherents of religious ritual, his presence at Selichot marked a rare moment of spiritual outreach. The evening was described by attendees as a bridge between his long-standing artistic persona and the more contemplative, penitential mood of the night. As prayers filled the sanctuary, the singer joined in with the crowd, lifting the room with a resonant vocal performance and allowing familiar prayers to resonate alongside the melodies he helped popularize in Israeli rock.
What He Sang and How the Moment Felt
During the service, Sakharof reportedly led the congregation in a heartfelt rendition that included lines from traditional liturgy, including chants such as “Ana Adonai Hoshiya Na” and “Ana Adonai Hatsliacha Na.” In that moment, attendees describe a rare fusion: the earnest cadence of the Selichot prayers met the raw, expressive timbre of a musician who helped shape a generation of Israeli rock. It was a scene that provoked reflection among fans and worshippers alike, highlighting how a modern rock icon can also participate meaningfully in a sacred observance.
From Rock Pioneer to Cultural Figure
Berry Sakharof, now in his late sixties, is regarded as a central figure in Israel’s music scene. His career spans decades, with a reputation for bold collaborations and a talent for shaping the country’s rock landscape. In the early 1990s, he earned the title of the “Prince of Israeli Rock,” a reflection of his influence and distinctive sound. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a variety of artists and has been a consistent presence in the broader cultural conversation surrounding music in Israel.
Family and Legacy
Beyond his own career, Sakharof’s musical lineage continues through his son, Itay, who serves as the lead singer of the band Luiza. Itay’s musical path and his relationship, including his partnership with actress Er—wait, the article notes Itay is in a relationship with actress Irith HaNokd, adding another layer to a family closely tied to Israeli culture and the arts. This lineage underscores how Sakharof’s influence extends beyond his own performances, shaping the next generation of Israeli musicians and performers.
A Moment to Remember
The Beit HaKnesset Ezekiel performance stands out not only as a rare cross between secular rock and sacred ritual but also as a reminder of the evolving nature of cultural expression in Israel. Sakharof’s ability to traverse artistic boundaries—without losing the integrity of either discipline—illustrates a broader trend: prominent artists engaging more openly with diverse spiritual experiences, especially around significant religious dates like the Selichot season before Yom Kippur.
