Meir Banai facts for kids
Meir Banai (born July 5, 1961 – died January 12, 2017) was a famous Israeli musician. He was a talented singer and songwriter.
Meir Banai's Life Story
Meir Banai was born in Beersheba in 1961. He came from a traditional Jewish family. Many members of his family were actors and singers. Some famous relatives include Orna Banai, Eviatar Banai, Ehud Banai, Yuval Banai, and Yossi Banai.
In 1999, Meir worked with another musician, Arkadi Duchin. They made a very popular recording together. Tal Sondak, who sang for Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2001, said Meir Banai was one of his favorite musicians. In March 2004, Banai performed for the first time in the United States. This concert took place in New York City.
His album Shma Koli (which means "Hear My Voice") came out in 2007. This CD featured traditional Jewish texts and prayers. The music was based on old tunes but sounded modern. The song "Lech Elay" became a big hit right away. Critics wrote that Banai's songs on this album were excellent. They noted how he lifted the melody at key points, like someone calling out to God. By February 2008, Shma Koli had sold over 15,000 copies.
In February 2008, Meir Banai won the Landau Award for Stage Arts. This award celebrates excellence in the arts. After not performing together for ten years, Arkadi Duchin and Banai played a concert in April 2009. Meir Banai released ten albums during his career.
His Passing
Meir Banai passed away on January 12, 2017. He was 56 years old.
Meir Banai's Albums
- The First Album (1984)
- Rain (1987)
- Impressions Live (1988)
- The Colors Change/Changing Colors (1990)
- Including/In Between (1992)
- The Wandering Tune (1996)
- Heart Cracked/Fractured Heart (2001)
- How Much Love (2002)
- Shma Koli (2007)
- Collections
See also
- Music of Israel
- In Spanish: Meir Banai para niños