Israeli Mizrahi singer Yishai Levi has died at the age of 68 following a serious health battle. The musician was hospitalized after canceling several shows due to ongoing health issues.
A Life in Music
Levi rose to fame in the 1980s with beloved tracks such as Dance, Romantic Dance, and My One. Over his career, he released more than 20 albums and was widely recognized as a pioneer of Mizrahi music, a genre blending Middle Eastern, North African, and European traditions.
Health Struggles
While the exact cause of death has not been confirmed, Levi was admitted to hospital for a severe condition over the weekend. He had previously battled addiction and suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) since 2005.
Tributes Pour In
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led tributes, posting on X: 'My wife Sara and I express our sorrow over the passing of the beloved artist Yishai Levi. He was a unique voice in Israeli music, one of soul, joy, pain, and love for humanity.' President Isaac Herzog added that Levi was 'among the most loved and significant voices of Israeli music.'
Fans also shared heartfelt messages. One wrote: 'The King of Mizrahi has left us. Yishai Levi, thank you for the music that made us dance, cry, and feel alive.' Another said: 'My deepest condolences to his family and friends.'
Legacy
Levi's breakthrough came with his 1986 album Behold, Days Are Coming. He is survived by his wife, four children, and grandchildren. His family stated: 'With unimaginable pain, we announce the passing of Yishai Levi tonight. There are no words right now.'
