Popular Israeli music artists

Nearly 2% of Israel’s population is of Ethiopian descent – about 125, 000 people comprising a rich, unique culture.

But prior to the 1970s, there were very few Ethiopian emigrants living in Israel. What led to the surge in the Ethio-Israeli population? Three main factors: famine, fear, and faith.

FAMINE

During the early-to-mid 1980s, drought and famine forced thousands of Ethiopians to flee their native country. One evacuation effort, called Operation Moses, saw the relocation of more than 7, 000 Ethiopians to Israel between 1984 and 1985.

FEAR

In 1991, the Ethiopian government was becoming increasingly unstable and, as a result, many Ethiopian Jews feared for their safety. The Israeli government echoed their concerns and responded with Operation Solomon, a relocation effort that brought more than 14, 000 additional Ethiopians to Israel in just 36 hours.

FAITH

Another, more consistent reason for Ethiopian immigration to Israel is aliyah – the Jewish pilgrimage to the “Promised Land” of Israel. Beginning in 1975, Ethiopian Jews were able to claim Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return. Since that ruling, many Ethiopians have chosen to make the journey.

Although the relationship between the Ethiopian diaspora and native Israeli populations is at times contentious, the two groups have come together in some meaningful ways. For one thing, the meeting of these cultures has produced some truly innovative and exciting music.

Among the Ethiopian refugees transported to Israel during the 1984 famine were the parents of singer Ester Rada. Three decades later, their daughter is creating songs deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage, as well as American soul and R&B. Rada is married to Gili Yalo, the front man for popular Israeli reggae act Zvuloon Dub System. Yalo first found his passion for music at age 4, while he and his parents made aliyah in 1984.