JERUSALEM (AP) — Arik Einstein, a pioneering Israeli singer and songwriter who performed some of the country's best-known anthems, has died.
Doctors said Einstein died Tuesday after suffering an aneurism. He was 74. Einstein began performing in the early 1960s after serving in a military entertainment troupe. His soft voice was instantly recognizable, melding classic folk music with a harder edge.
He is widely seen as the father of Israeli rock. In a career spanning half a century, Einstein recorded and performed with many of Israel's top artists. He also enjoyed an acting career.
In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Einstein's works "the soundtrack" of the nation.
According to Israeli media, Einstein is survived by his partner, actress Sima Eliyahu, and four children.
Doctors said Einstein died Tuesday after suffering an aneurism. He was 74. Einstein began performing in the early 1960s after serving in a military entertainment troupe. His soft voice was instantly recognizable, melding classic folk music with a harder edge.
He is widely seen as the father of Israeli rock. In a career spanning half a century, Einstein recorded and performed with many of Israel's top artists. He also enjoyed an acting career.
In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Einstein's works "the soundtrack" of the nation.
According to Israeli media, Einstein is survived by his partner, actress Sima Eliyahu, and four children.