The singer and songwriter, who is responsible for countless hits and is considered one of Israel’s favorite singers, Hofani Cohen, passed away this evening (Monday) at the age of 76. During his career, Cohen won an Emmy award for his life’s work. Identified with being the singer who sang the national anthem before the games of the Israeli soccer team for many years. Cohen is mainly associated with the Mediterranean singer, to whom he devoted almost five decades of creation and singing that he loved so much.
Minister of Culture and Sports Miki Zohar: “I was sorry to hear about the passing of the singer Hofani Cohen, one of the Israeli singer priests, who won the Lifetime Achievement Award from AM. The late Hofani knew with grace, so characteristic of him, to bring a smile to many people. For many years, Hofani was responsible for singing the national anthem at the Israel national football team’s matches and did so with dedication and love. Of blessed memory.”
The Football Association stated: “The Football Association is saddened by the passing of the singer and composer Hofani Cohen, who for many years was the one who, just before the opening whistle for the Israel national team games, moved us all by singing the national anthem. The late Hofani was also a partner and performer of the cheering song for the “El-El Israel” team: “All of us here in blue and white are on duty. With heart to heart and hand in hand, everything will be different, for the glory of the country. We are all blue and white here, like the glow of the sky. With a little luck and love we will reach the top, and we will rejoice in hope.’ We had the privilege to give the dear man the honor he deserves in the national team’s match against Albania in April 2022 and thank him on behalf of everyone. Of blessed memory.”
