יזהר כהן

Early Life

Izhar Cohen was born on March 13, 1951, in Israel. He began his musical journey as a child, performing alongside his father, which laid the foundation for his future career in music. At the age of 18, he joined the Israel Defense Forces' Nachal entertainment troupe, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience in performing.

Career Milestones

Cohen rose to prominence in the 1970s, becoming one of the most popular singers in Israel. His career reached a significant milestone when he represented Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1978, winning with the song "A-Ba-Ni-Bi," composed by Nurit Hirsh with lyrics by Ehud Manor. This victory not only showcased his talent but also solidified his place in Israeli music history. He returned to Eurovision in 1985, finishing fifth with the song "Olé, Olé." Despite several attempts to represent Israel again in subsequent years, he did not win the national finals.

In addition to his singing career, Cohen has also acted in the Haifa Theatre and owns a jewelry shop on Dizengoff Street in Tel Aviv. His versatility as an artist is evident in his participation in various entertainment formats, including his recent appearance on "The Singer in the Mask" and "Dancing with the Stars" in 2024, where he was eliminated on June 26.

Legacy

Izhar Cohen's contributions to music and entertainment have made him a beloved figure in Israeli culture. His ability to blend pop and rhythm and blues genres has left a lasting impact on the music scene, and his Eurovision win remains a highlight of his career. As he continues to engage with audiences through various platforms, Cohen's legacy as a pioneering artist in Israel's music history is firmly established.