Posts

Israel: The Grand Final of HaKokhav HaBa – Eurovision 2025 Edition is Tonight!

/0 Comments/in , /by

The big night has finally arrived for Israel, as the country prepares to select its representative for Eurovision 2025. After nearly two and a half months and more than 30 episodes, the journey of HaKokhav HaBa – Eurovision 2025 Edition culminates tonight, with four artists competing for the ultimate prize: the chance to represent Israel in the 69th Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland.

The Hosts and Judges

Returning to guide the show are long-time hosts Assi Azar and Rotem Sela, a duo that has fronted the competition since 2014. The judges’ panel features a stellar lineup:

  • Shiri Maimon
  • Itay Levy
  • Assaf Amdorsky
  • Ran Dankar
  • Keren Pels
    The panel also welcomes Eden Hasson as its newest addition for this season.

Finalists and Format

After an intense series of auditions, eliminations, and performances, four artists have reached tonight’s grand finale, aiming for victory and the honor of representing Israel. The finalists are:

  • Valerie Hamaty
  • Daniel Weiss
  • Yuval Raphael
  • Red Band & Moran Aharoni

The final will unfold in two distinct rounds:

  1. First Round: Each finalist will perform one song. Based solely on public televoting, the top three artists will advance to the second round.
  2. Second Round: The remaining three artists will each present another song. This time, the winner will be determined through a combined voting system, comprising:
    • Israeli televotes
    • Scores from the six judges
    • Input from a special jury panel

The artist with the highest cumulative score will be crowned the winner and will fly the Israeli flag in Basel.

When Will the Song Be Revealed?

While the artist will be decided tonight, the song they’ll perform at Eurovision will be revealed later. Composers selected by Israel’s public broadcaster have until early February to submit their proposals. Following internal discussions with tonight’s winner, the song will be finalized and unveiled in March.

Where to Watch the Final?

You can tune in to the grand final of HaKokhav HaBa tonight at 20:30 CET on Keshet 12. Watch it via:

Israel’s Eurovision Legacy

Last year, Israel was represented at Eurovision 2024 in Malmö by Eden Golan and her song “Hurricane”, which earned the country an impressive fifth place in the Grand Final.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K60BWlEhtAA

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all updates about Israel’s road to Eurovision 2025 in Basel!

 

 

Israel: The four finalists of HaKokhav HaBa 2025!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Israel is entering the final stage of selecting its representative for Eurovision 2025. After more than 30 episodes, HaKokhav HaBa has chosen the four artists who will compete in the Grand Final to represent the country in this year’s contest!

In last night’s episode, the five semi-finalists performed one by one, with the artist receiving the highest score earning the first ticket to the final.

After that, the score was reset, and the four remaining contestants faced the jury again. The jurors rated them Eurovision-style with 12, 10, 8, and 7 points. These scores were combined with public votes, which gave out 120 points. At the end of the episode, Dolev Mandelbaum was eliminated just before the final, having received the lowest score.

The Performances

Moran Aharoni and Red Band

Moran & Red opened the semi-final with “Etzlech Ba’Olam” by Meir Banai, in an English-translated version titled “Into Your World”. Red began the performance near the judges’ table—a nice change from previous appearances where he stayed seated. Moran joined in shortly after with incredible precision! Both came aiming for the Final, and this was evident whether they sang alone or in harmony, showcasing their continuously improving chemistry. They delivered the song flawlessly, at the peak of their abilities.

The duo managed to score an impressive 92%.

Daniel Wais

Daniel performed “What About Us” by Pink. He started surrounded by dancers posed as statues, against a backdrop of a moonlit sky and soft purple hues—perfectly complementing his gentle and pleasant voice. The song then gained momentum, becoming more upbeat than Daniel’s usual performances this season, which slightly showed in his higher-range vocals. However, he regained his footing after the chorus and returned to his characteristic low tones.

Daniel received three negative votes and a 56% score, falling short of Moran & Red.

Valerie Hamaty

Valerie performed “Chomot Cheimar” (Clay Walls) by Margol. Under red fabrics draped above her, Valerie delivered a powerful and iconic performance with ethnic elements that suited her perfectly. Her voice filled the room from the very first note, as she passionately conveyed the energy of the song. She even incorporated an Arabic verse she wrote herself, maintaining the song’s intensity. Coming off a lower-scoring previous episode with criticism, Valerie clearly knew how to make a comeback and stunned both the audience and judges.

Valerie achieved a strong 87%, though it wasn’t enough to surpass Moran & Red.

Dolev Mandelbaum

For his crucial semi-final performance, Dolev chose to perform “Creep” by Radiohead. With a piano, dancers, and an impressive stage setup, Dolev made it clear from the start that he was delivering a standout show. Sitting confidently at the piano, he exuded assurance. After the chorus, the song picked up energy, and Dolev once again demonstrated his vocal control and ability to hit high notes effortlessly. Despite his young age, he’s already establishing himself as a major pop talent with tremendous potential.

Dolev scored 58% and couldn’t surpass Moran & Red.

Yuval Raphael

Yuval closed the semi-final with “Warrior” by Demi Lovato. Against a backdrop of butterfly wings, Yuval moved in a circle while singing yet another Demi Lovato song, echoing her audition choice. Her voice was delicate yet powerful, effortlessly precise and commanding. With her strong and accurate vocals, Yuval positioned herself as one of the competition’s most formidable singers.

Yuval achieved a remarkable 98%, surpassing Moran & Red and earning the first ticket to the Final.

The Jury’s Votes

  • Shiri Maimon
    7 points – Daniel Wais
    8 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    10 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
    12 points – Valerie Hamaty
  • Keren Peles
    7 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    8 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
    10 points – Daniel Wais
    12 points – Valerie Hamaty
  • Ran Danker
    7 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
    8 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    10 points – Valerie Hamaty
    12 points – Daniel Wais
  • Eden Hason
    7 points – Daniel Wais
    8 points – Valerie Hamaty
    10 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    12 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
  • Assaf Amdursky
    7 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    8 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
    10 points – Daniel Wais
    12 points – Valerie Hamaty
  • Itay Levy
    7 points – Daniel Wais
    8 points – Dolev Mandelbaum
    10 points – Moran Aharoni and Red Band
    12 points – Valerie Hamaty

After the judges’ votes, the scores for the four artists was as follows:

  1. Valerie Hamaty – 66 points
  2. Moran Aharoni and Red Band – 55 points
  3. Daniel Wais – 53 points
  4. Dolev Mandelbaum – 48 points

The public vote for the top three was not revealed to maintain suspense for the Final:

1st Place – 97 points
2nd Place – 88 points
3rd Place – 80 points
4th Place – 77 points (Dolev Mandelbaum)

Thus, the four finalists of HaKokhav HaBa are (in random order): Moran Aharoni and Red Band, Valerie Hamaty, Daniel Wais, and Yuval Raphael.

Thus, the episode concludes with the four finalists preparing for the Grand Final, which will take place on Wednesday!

Last year’s winner of HaKokhav Haba and the country’s representative at Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan, with her song “Hurricane”, ending up in fifth place in the final ranking.

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Israeli participation at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, in Basel!

Source: euromix.co.il

Israel: All the highlights from the 30th episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Last night, Tuesday 14th of January, the 30th episode of HaKokhav Haba, the song contest through which Israel will select its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, which will take place in Basel, Switzerland, on May 13, 15 and 17, 2025, was broadcast.

The 30th episode of HaKokhav Haba was held with six artists. The three artists who achieved the lowest percentage were also candidates for elimination, with the jury deciding who would bid farewell to the music competition. In this episode, the contestants performed songs by the legendary Israeli singer Rita, who was on the jury for this occasion.

Hosts and Judges

Rotem Sela continues as the host of the show, alongside Assi Azar, one of the hosts of Eurovision 2019. Azar has been a host since the first season of HaKokhav Haba in 2013, while Rotem Sela began hosting from the second season, a role she still holds today.

The judging panel includes:

  • Assaf Amdursky
  • Keren Peles
  • Shiri Maimon
  • Eden Hason
  • Ran Danker
  • Itay Levi

The performances

Moran Aharoni and Red Band

Moran and Red opened the night with Rita’s song “Cry.” They performed the song in its English version. All members of the jury voted positively, and thus this special duo achieved an 88% score.

Dolev Mandelbaum

Dolev performed “Shir Ahuvat HaSapan” and dedicated the song to his late stepbrother, Drew, who was tragically murdered in the United States. The judges also voted positively for this performance, and thus Dolev achieved an 89% score, securing a place in the semifinals.

Yuval Gold

Yuval chose to perform “Mechaka,” with a unique arrangement that reflected his unique vocal style. However, the jury’s assessment was mixed, and thus he was limited to 72%.

Daniel Wais

Daniel performed “Ani Chaya Mul HaMayim” sitting on the floor, with a performance that immediately evoked strong emotions. Despite one jury member voting negatively, his score reached 81%, securing a spot in the semi-finals.

Valerie Hamaty

Valerie chose to sing “Machol Metoraf,” showcasing her unique voice and confidence. However, three judges voted negatevily, leaving Valerie with 63%.

Yuval Rephael

Yuval performed “Ani Chaya Li MiYom LeYom” in a ballad version that perfectly suited her vocal tone. All jury members voted yes, and Yuval achieved 95%, securing a spot in the semi-finals.

By the end of the competitive part, the jury decided that Yuval Gold would leave the competition.

Last year’s winner of HaKokhav Haba and thus the country’s representative at Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan, with her song “Hurricane”, finished in fifth place in the final ranking.

Source: euromix

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Eurovision Song Contest 2025!

Follow us on all our social media, so that you’ll not lose a thing of what’s happening Eurovision:

Israel: All the highlights from the 29th episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Last night, Sunday 12th of January, the 29th episode of HaKokhav Haba, the song contest through which Israel will select its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, which will take place in Basel, Switzerland, on May 13, 15 and 17, 2025, was broadcast.

The next phase of HaKokhav Haba began with 8 contestants, which is the duel challenge. Four duets competed in this episode, where two of the contestants left the competition at the end of the competition process.

Hosts and Judges

Rotem Sela continues as the host of the show, alongside Assi Azar, one of the hosts of Eurovision 2019. Azar has been a host since the first season of HaKokhav Haba in 2013, while Rotem Sela began hosting from the second season, a role she still holds today.

The judging panel includes:

  • Assaf Amdursky
  • Keren Peles
  • Shiri Maimon
  • Eden Hason
  • Ran Danker
  • Itay Levi

The duets

Dolev Mandelbaum vs. Yuval Raphael

Dolav Mandelbaum opened the night with Britney Spears’ “Toxic.” The cover perfectly suited Dolav’s vocal range. It started out softly, and as the song progressed, so did his vocal abilities. All judges gave a positive vote, receiving an 86% score.

Yuval Raphael chose to perform Bruno Mars’ “Talking to the Moon.” Yuval dedicated the song to the Israeli hostages held captive by Hamas, especially her friend Matan Tzengauker, who is still being held hostage in Gaza. All judges also gave a positive vote, receiving a 96% score, ensuring her qualification to the next round.

Moran Aharoni and Red Band vs. Yuval Gold

Moran and Red chose to sing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” As usual, Moran and Red managed to surprise us with another unique, precise and amazing performance. Once again, Moran and Red proved that their combination is relevant and correct. Ran Danker was the only member of the jury to give a negative vote, receiving 82%.

Yuval Gold chose to sing Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” dedicating it to his good friend Daniel Sheinkerman who was murdered in the Nova Festival massacre. Two of the judges, Eden Hason and Itay Levi, gave a negative vote, receiving 71%, and thus Moran and Red moved on to the next round.

Amit Sade vs. Daniel Wais

Amit chose to sing Adele’s “Skyfall”. Amit is so captivating and touches the soul with her unique and soulful vocal tone. Itai, Ran, and Keren gave negative vote, receiving 60%.

Daniel chose to sing Andra Day’s “Rise Up”, along with artists from the “Shoofuni” project. Eden and Asaf gave negative vote, receiving 65%, ensuring her qualification to the next phase.

Ido Malka vs. Valerie Hamaty

Ido chose to perform “The Story of My Life” by One Direction. The song suits him perfectly. Ido sounded great in the song, as if it was written for him. Keren and Asaf voted against it, receiving 75%.

Valerie chose to sing “Rise Like a Phoenix”, by Conchita Wurst, who represented Austria and won Eurovision 2014. All judges voted in favor, receiving 83%, ensuring her qualification to the next phase.

At the end of the competition part, the jury decided that Amit Sade and Ido Malka would leave the competition.

Last year’s winner of HaKokhav Haba and thus the country’s representative at Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan, with her song “Hurricane”, finished in fifth place in the final ranking.

Source: euromix

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Eurovision Song Contest 2025!

Follow us on all our social media, so that you’ll not lose a thing of what’s happening Eurovision:

Israel: HaKokhav Haba Grand Final to take place on January 22!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

After countless auditions and a great number of episodes, the moment when Israel selects its representative for Eurovision 2025, is almost here! Officially, the Grand Final of HaKokhav Haba, will take place on Wednesday, January 22!

As of now, ten young singers are still competing, four of which will advance to the Grand Final. There, the Israeli audience and the jury of the show, will select together the country’s next representative for Eurovision! The jury consists of:

  • Assaf Amdursky
  • Keren Peles
  • Shiri Maimon
  • Eden Hason
  • Ran Danker
  • Itay Levi
  • Nasrin Kadri 

As we’ve previously informed you, after the selection of the representative, a special jury panel will select the song which they will perform on the stage in Basel, as was also the case last year. The submission window will be open until February 2, 2025.

The special professional committee will consist of 7 members:

  • The chairman of the committee – the director of the IPBC music stations.
  • Two representatives of the radio – music editors to be selected by the chairman of the committee.
  • Two representatives of the television – the director of the IPBC entertainment and culture department and one more representative to be selected by her.
  • Two representatives of Keshet

Yet again, the song can be in any language, but it must contain some sentences in Hebrew.

The selected song will be arranged, recorded and a video clip will be created in order to be presented in March 2025 in a special televised show.

The previous winner of HaKokhav Haba and Israel’s representative in Eurovision 2024, was Eden Golan with her song “Hurricane” which ended up in 5th place of the Grand Final:

https://youtu.be/K60BWlEhtAA

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Israeli participation at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, in Basel!

Source: euromix.co.il

Israel: Everything that happened in the 21st episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , /by

Yesterday, Saturday December 28, the 21st episode of HaKokhav Haba, the singing competition through which Israel will select its representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, was broadcast.

With 15 artists participating, the continuation of the HaKokhav Haba duels phase began. Four pairs of contestants competed in this latest episode, where one of them was eliminated by the end of the competition process.

Hosts and Judges

In yesterday’s episode, the judging panel welcomed a new addition, the singer Nasrin Kadri. Rotem Sela continues to host the show alongside Assi Azar, who was one of the hosts of Eurovision 2019. Since the first season of HaKokhav Haba in 2013, Azar has been a host, while Rotem Sela joined from the second season and continues her role to this day.

The judging panel includes:

  • Assaf Amdursky
  • Keren Peles
  • Shiri Maimon
  • Eden Hason
  • Ran Danker
  • Itay Levi
  • Nasrin Kadri

The Pairs

Nathalie Zafar and Udi Schneider
Nathalie chose to perform “Total Eclipse of the Heart”. The judges gave mixed feedback, and she scored 85%. Udi performed “Shir HaBricha”, received positive votes from the judges, scored 91%, and advanced to the Top 14.

Red Band with Moran Aharonia and Valerie Hamati
Red Band and Moran Aharonia performed “One”. Their performance failed to impress the judges, earning a score of 67%. Valerie performed “Desert Rose”, impressed the judges, and advanced to the Top 14 with a score of 74%.

Amit Sadeh and Aviad Klein
Amit performed “Kach Oti” and scored 71%. Aviad performed “Iris”, but with only 56%, he was left in the elimination zone.

Alma Maimon de Razon and Yuval Gold
Alma performed “Yellow Brick Road” and scored only 55%. Yuval performed “LeOlam BeIkvot HaShemesh”, delighted the judges, scored 90%, and advanced to the Top 14.

The Elimination of the Night

The contestants at risk of elimination were Nathalie Zafar, Red Band and Moran Aharonia, Aviad Klein, and Alma Maimon de Razon. Ultimately, the judges decided that Aviad Klein’s journey ended here.

The previous winner of HaKokhav Haba and Israel’s representative for Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. With her song “Hurricane”, Eden Golan finished in fifth place in the final rankings.

 

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the latest updates regarding Eurovision 2025!

Source: euromix

 

Israel: All the highlights from the eighteenth episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Last Saturday, December 21, the 18th episode of HaKokhav Haba, the song contest through which Israel will select its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, which will take place in Basel, Switzerland, on May 13, 15 and 17, 2025, was broadcast.

The next phase of HaKokhav Haba began with 18 contestants, which is the duet phase. Five duets competed in this episode, where one of the contestants left the competition at the end of the competition process.

Hosts and Judging Panel

Returning to host the show are Rotem Sela and Assi Azar. Azar has been involved with HaKokhav Haba since its inaugural edition in 2013 and previously hosted the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Sela joined as a host in the second season and has been a presenter ever since.

The judging panel for this season includes a diverse group of music industry veterans:

    • Assaf Amdursky
    • Keren Peles
    • Shiri Maimon
    • Eden Hason
    • Ran Danker
    • Itay Levi

The duets

Keller and Nati Levian

Keller and Nati performed Rihanna’s “Stay.” All judges gave this first couple a positive vote, reaching 94%, thus setting the bar very high for the other four couples.

Udi Schneider and Yuval Gold

Udi and Yuval performed Osher Cohen’s “Love.” Two (Assaf and Itay) of the six judges voted against it, resulting in a score of 68%.

Red Band feat. Moran Aharonia and Amit Sadeh

Red Band and Moran Aharonia with Amit Sadeh performed “I See Red” by Everybody Loves An Outlaw. All members of the jury voted in favor, and this duet reached 91%.

Uri Saban and Ilai Avidani

Uri Saban and Ilai Avidani performed Moshe Peretz’s “Signs of Time.” Two (Assaf and Keren) voted against the duet’s performance, narrowing it down to 63%.

Valerie Hamati and Daniel Weiss

Valerie Hamati and Daniel Weiss performed Israel’s entry to the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, “Hurricane” by Eden Golan. All members of the jury voted in favor, and the pair reached 95%, securing their place in the next stage of the contest.

At the end of the competition, the duet of Uri Saban and Ilai Avidani had the lowest percentage, 63%, and the judges decided that Uri Saban’s journey ended here.

Last year’s winner of HaKokhav Haba and thus the country’s representative at Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan, with her song “Hurricane”, finished in fifth place in the final ranking.

Source: euromix

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Eurovision Song Contest 2025!

Follow us on all our social media, so that you’ll not lose a thing of what’s happening Eurovision:

Israel: All the highlights from the seventeenth episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The seventeenth episode of the highly anticipated Israeli selection process for Eurovision 2025, HaKokhav Haba, aired last night. This competition, known in English as “The Next Star”, is the format used by Israel to choose its representative for the Eurovision Song Contest.

Since its debut in 2015, HaKokhav Haba has been the main selection method for Israel, excluding the years 2022 and 2023. The show has achieved significant success, notably securing Israel’s Eurovision victory with Netta in 2018.

Though filming for this season began on October 10 at Neve Ilan Studios, on November 10 the official broadcast commenced on Israeli television.

The format

As we advance to the next stage of the contest, the judging panel has selected a total of twenty-one contestants.

In each episode, a number of these participants will take the stage on The Next Star. The contestant with the lowest score of the night will ultimately be eliminated from the competition, losing their chance to represent Israel in Basel for Eurovision 2025.

So far, two contestants have already been eliminated, leaving nineteen contestants still in the running.

Hosts and Judging Panel

Returning to host the show are Rotem Sela and Assi Azar. Azar has been involved with HaKokhav Haba since its inaugural edition in 2013 and previously hosted the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Sela joined as a host in the second season and has been a presenter ever since.

The judging panel for this season includes a diverse group of music industry veterans:

    • Assaf Amdursky
    • Keren Peles
    • Shiri Maimon
    • Eden Hason
    • Ran Danker
    • Itay Levi

With their combined experience, the panel ensures a high level of competition, which promises to be even more intense than last season’s edition.

Contestants and Their Performances

In last night’s episode of The Next Star, seven participants took the stage. Here’s a look at some of the standout performances:

  • Nati Livian: After delivering a captivating audition, Nati performed “Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi. His performance was solid, and he demonstrated international potential. However, not all judges were impressed. Assaf Amdursky and Ran Danker did not vote for him, and Nati ultimately received a score of 77%.
  • Parfilab Mongoza: Dressed in a sparkling cream-colored dress and accompanied by backing singers, Parfilab performed “Lift Me Up” by Rihanna. The judges gave her overall positive feedback, with all but Itay Levi voting for her. Parfilab finished with a score of 84%.
  • Itay Paz: For his performance, Itay chose “Chom Yuli Ougost” by Shlomo Artzi. His emotional delivery, expressing a deep connection to the song, impressed the judges. They all voted for him, and Itay received a score of 85%.
  • Aviad Klein: Accompanied by dancers, Aviad performed “Bruises” by Lewis Capaldi. Despite a solid performance, the judges noted a lack of authenticity, with Ran Danker choosing not to vote for him. Aviad received a score of 77%, tying with Nati. However, Nati had a slightly higher score at a decimal point, leaving Aviad at risk of elimination.
  • Shira Knop: Shira is the only contestant this season to have been saved by the judges during the auditions. She performed “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles in the next stage of the contest. While she appeared confident, something seemed off, and Ran Danker did not vote for her. Shira received the lowest score so far, 70%.
  • Ily Avidani: Ily performed “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys, accompanied by his piano. His improvisations, however, did not impress the judges, with both Assaf and Ran opting not to vote for him. Nonetheless, Ily received a score of 76%, securing his spot in the competition.
  • Moran Aharoni and Red Band: In an intriguing collaboration, Moran and Red Band performed an English version of “Haim Lihiot Bach Me’ohav” by Aviv Gefen. The judges praised their performance, and they all voted for them. Moran Aharoni and Red Band received a 93% score – the highest of the night.

As Shira Knop received the lowest score of the night, she was eventually eliminated from the competition.

The winner of HaKokhav Haba and therefore Israel’s representative in Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan performed her song “Hurricane“, finishing fifth overall.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the latest updates on the Israeli selection process!

Source: euromix

Israel: All the highlights from the ninth episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The ninth episode of the highly anticipated Israeli selection process for Eurovision 2025, HaKokhav Haba, aired last night. This competition, known in English as “The Next Star”, is the format used by Israel to choose its representative for the Eurovision Song Contest.

Since its debut in 2015, HaKokhav Haba has been the main selection method for Israel, excluding the years 2022 and 2023. The show has achieved significant success, notably securing Israel’s Eurovision victory with Netta in 2018.

Though filming for this season began on October 10 at Neve Ilan Studios, on November 10 the official broadcast commenced on Israeli television.

Hosts and Judging Panel

Returning to host the show are Rotem Sela and Assi Azar. Azar has been involved with HaKokhav Haba since its inaugural edition in 2013 and previously hosted the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Sela joined as a host in the second season and has been a presenter ever since.

The judging panel for this season includes a diverse group of music industry veterans:

    • Assaf Amdursky
    • Keren Peles
    • Shiri Maimon
    • Eden Hason
    • Ran Danker
    • Itay Levi

With their combined experience, the panel ensures a high level of competition, which promises to be even more intense than last season’s edition.

Contestants and Their Performances

In yesterday’s episode, six more contestants took the stage, and five of them advanced to the next stage of the competition. Here’s a look at some of the standout performances:

  • Eliad Peretz (23): A singer, keyboardist, and music producer, Eliad is about to release an album. Although his musical roots are in oriental music, he is currently into pop-indie and R&B. For his audition, Eliad performed a song by Ofer Levy and impressed the judges with his unique vocal style. All the judges voted for him, and Eliad received a score of 86%.
  • Itai Paz (20): With roots from the United States, Itai draws inspiration from country music. For his audition, he performed “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan. His charisma was evident, and although the judges were impressed, Ran Danker refrained from voting due to doubts about Itai’s suitability for Eurovision. Ultimately, Itai received a score of 79%.
  • Noa Danai (28): Originally from New York, Noa traveled to Israel specifically for her audition. She sang “Russian Roulette” by Rihanna, but the judges had mixed opinions on her performance. Ran and Shiri were not convinced by her overly technical approach and lack of emotional depth, which led them to withhold their votes. Noa received a score of 74%.
  • Shaf Blaash (27): Having previously participated in “The Next Star” in 2019, Shaf returned with a powerful performance of “Shki’ot Adumot” by Eden Hason. His natural talent stood out, and his interpretation was praised by the original singer of the song, who was present on the panel. All the judges except Itay Levi voted for him, and Shaf received a score of 82%.
  • Noam Levy (27): A survivor of the tragic events of October 7, Noam uses music as a way to process the emotional aftermath of the incident. She performed “Hagoleh” by Dudu Tassa in an incredibly emotional rendition. The authenticity and purity of her performance resonated with the judges, who all voted for her. Noam received a score of 89%.

The next episode of HaKokhav Haba will be broadcast Tuesday night.

The winner of HaKokhav Haba and therefore Israel’s representative in Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan performed her song “Hurricane“, finishing fifth overall.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the latest updates on the Israeli selection process!

Source: euromix

Israel: All the highlights from the seventh episode of HaKokhav Haba!

/1 Comment/in , , /by

The seventh episode of the highly anticipated Israeli selection process for Eurovision 2025, HaKokhav Haba, aired tonight. This competition, known in English as “The Next Star”, is the format used by Israel to choose its representative for the Eurovision Song Contest.

Since its debut in 2015, HaKokhav Haba has been the main selection method for Israel, excluding the years 2022 and 2023. The show has achieved significant success, notably securing Israel’s Eurovision victory with Netta in 2018.

Though filming for this season began on October 10 at Neve Ilan Studios, on November 10 the official broadcast commenced on Israeli television.

Hosts and Judging Panel

Returning to host the show are Rotem Sela and Assi Azar. Azar has been involved with HaKokhav Haba since its inaugural edition in 2013 and previously hosted the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Sela joined as a host in the second season and has been a presenter ever since.

The judging panel for this season includes a diverse group of music industry veterans:

    • Assaf Amdursky
    • Keren Peles
    • Shiri Maimon
    • Eden Hason
    • Ran Danker
    • Itay Levi

With their combined experience, the panel ensures a high level of competition, which promises to be even more intense than last season’s edition.

Contestants and Their Performances

In tonight’s episode, five contestants took the stage, and four of them advanced to the next stage of the competition. Here’s a look at some of the standout performances:

  • Debbie James (36): Debbie, the daughter of a famous 80’s movie actor, brings experience to the stage, having previously provided backing vocals for Enrique Iglesias. For her audition, Debbie performed “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan, showcasing her charisma. Despite her strong performance, Assaf Amdursky and Itay Levi did not vote for her, leaving Debbie with a score of 70%.
  • Udi Schneider (21): Udi made a bold impression with his performance of “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga, capturing the attention of the judges with his energy. His performance was so powerful that all the judges voted for him, resulting in a score of 88%.
  • Roy Elbaz (20): A detective with the Israeli police, Roy Elbaz has a strong passion for music. For his audition, he performed a song by Bar Tzabary, delivering a confident and original interpretation. His performance impressed the judges, who praised his uniqueness. However, Assaf Amdursky did not vote for him and Roy received a score of 76%.
  • Natali Zafar (19): At just 19 years old, Natali Zafar is already a songwriter and composer. For her audition, she performed her original song “Hayti Lech,” which speaks about overcoming anxiety. Her heartfelt performance captivated all the judges, who voted in her favor. With an impressive score of 94%, Natali has proven herself to be one of the standout contestants of the season.

The next episode of HaKokhav Haba will be broadcast on Saturday evening.

The winner of HaKokhav Haba and therefore Israel’s representative in Eurovision 2024 was Eden Golan. Eden Golan performed her song “Hurricane“, finishing fifth overall.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the latest updates on the Israeli selection process!

Source: euromix