“I miss singing, and songs, and the audience, and people…” So began a November 4, 2020 Instagram post by Israeli singer Rotem Cohen. He continued: “To sing close, to sing to many…to walk free, to hug intimately…”
A few weeks later, Rotem showed the post to superstar producers Dolly and Penn (Dolev Ram and Penn Hazut) – and soon, a new song was born.
In the midst of another lockdown due to Coronavirus, Rotem captures the mood of the nation perfectly. He sings of all we’ve lost, but reminds us to remain optimistic – because “light always comes out at the end.”
In the video, Rotem walks through the empty streets of Tel Aviv, until he reaches the city’s Heichal HaTarbut (cultural center). Standing on stage and looking out at the empty auditorium, he recalls happier days of live music, dancing, and fun.
It’s been said that “culture is not a luxury; it is a necessity.” Let’s hope we get back to a culturally-enriched life real soon.