Ofra Haza was an Israeli singer and actress who was known for her powerful and unique voice. Her music was a fusion of traditional Israeli and Middle Eastern styles, as well as contemporary pop and electronic elements. Haza’s music touched people around the world, and she was recognized as one of the most talented and versatile singers of her time. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 best Ofra Haza songs of all time.
Throughout her career, Haza released more than 20 albums, and she collaborated with many renowned musicians and producers, such as Iggy Pop and Thomas Dolby. Her music was not only popular in Israel but also in other parts of the world, especially in Europe and the United States. Her unique vocal range and her ability to blend various musical styles were some of the factors that made her music stand out. In this article, we will explore some of her most memorable and iconic songs, such as “Im Nin’Alu,” “Galbi,” “Yerushalayim Shel Zahav,” and many others. Whether you are a fan of traditional Middle Eastern music or modern pop, you are sure to find something that will move you in Haza’s music. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 best Ofra Haza songs of all time.
1. Tefila (Prayer)
Tefila is a deeply spiritual and emotional song by the late Israeli singer Ofra Haza. The song is a prayer that expresses the singer’s devotion and love for God, and her yearning for a deeper connection with Him. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, and the lyrics are filled with passion and sincerity. Ofra’s voice is powerful and soulful, and she delivers the song with a raw and intense energy that is both moving and inspiring.
The song begins with a simple melody played on the piano, and then builds gradually with the addition of strings and percussion. Ofra’s voice enters softly, and then grows in intensity as the song progresses. The lyrics are in Hebrew, but even if you don’t understand the words, you can still feel the depth of emotion that Ofra pours into her performance.
Overall, Tefila is a beautiful and deeply spiritual song that speaks to the soul and touches the heart. It is a testament to the power of prayer and the beauty of faith, and a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and light to be found.
2. Im Nin’alu (If the Gates Are Locked)
Im Nin’alu is one of Ofra Haza’s most iconic and beloved songs. The song is a modern interpretation of a traditional Yemenite Jewish prayer, and it became an instant hit when it was released in the 1980s. The song is famous for its hypnotic melody and its powerful lyrics, which speak to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The song begins with a simple but mesmerizing melody played on a traditional Middle Eastern instrument called a qanun. Ofra’s voice enters softly, and then grows in intensity as she sings the first verse. The chorus is unforgettable, with its repetitive and hypnotic chant of “Im Nin’alu, Im Nin’alu” (If the Gates Are Locked).
The lyrics of the song are both spiritual and political, and they speak to the struggles of the Jewish people throughout history. The song is a reminder that even in times of darkness and oppression, there is always hope and resilience. Ofra’s powerful voice and the haunting melody of the qanun make Im Nin’alu a truly unforgettable and inspiring song, and it is no wonder that it has become a classic of world music.
3. Wish Me Luck
“Wish Me Luck” is a beautiful ballad by Ofra Haza, one of Israel’s most beloved singers. The song is about love, hope, and the power of positive thinking. The melody is gentle and soothing, and Ofra’s voice is tender and emotional. The lyrics are in English, and they express the singer’s desire for a brighter future and a better world.
The song begins with a simple piano melody, and then Ofra’s voice enters softly, almost whispering the first verse. The chorus is uplifting and inspiring, with its repeated refrain of “Wish me luck, wish me luck, love will find a way”. The lyrics speak to the universal human desire for love, and the hope that even in the darkest times, there is always a glimmer of light and a reason to keep believing.
Overall, “Wish Me Luck” is a beautiful and inspiring song that speaks to the heart and uplifts the spirit. Ofra’s voice is a true gift, and her performance is filled with sincerity and emotion. This song is a testament to the power of love and the beauty of hope, and it is sure to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
4. Da’ale Da’ale
“Da’ale Da’ale” is a lively and energetic song by Ofra Haza, one of Israel’s most iconic singers. The song is a celebration of life and joy, and it is filled with the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East. The lyrics are in Hebrew, and they speak to the joys of dancing and living in the moment.
The song begins with a catchy melody played on traditional Middle Eastern instruments, and then Ofra’s voice enters with a joyous shout of “Da’ale Da’ale”. The rhythm is infectious, and it is impossible not to be swept up in the joy and energy of the song. The chorus is repetitive and catchy, and it is sure to get listeners up on their feet and dancing.
Overall, “Da’ale Da’ale” is a fun and uplifting song that celebrates the beauty of life and the joy of dancing. Ofra’s voice is filled with energy and enthusiasm, and her performance is sure to put a smile on the faces of listeners. This song is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and lift their spirits.
5. Ya Ba Ye
“Ya Ba Ye” is a beautiful and haunting song by Ofra Haza, one of Israel’s most beloved singers. The song is a modern interpretation of a traditional Yemenite Jewish melody, and it is filled with the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East. The lyrics are in Hebrew, and they speak to the beauty and mystery of the desert landscape.
The song begins with a simple but hypnotic melody played on a traditional Middle Eastern instrument called a qanun. Ofra’s voice enters softly, and then grows in intensity as the song progresses. The chorus is unforgettable, with its repetitive and haunting chant of “Ya Ba Ye”. The lyrics speak to the beauty of the desert landscape, and the sense of wonder and awe that it inspires.
Overall, “Ya Ba Ye” is a beautiful and mesmerizing song that transports listeners to another world. Ofra’s voice is powerful and soulful, and her performance is filled with emotion and intensity. This song is a testament to the beauty of traditional Middle Eastern music, and it is sure to captivate the hearts of listeners.
6. Mystery, Faith and Love
“Mystery, Faith and Love” is a mesmerizing and ethereal song by Ofra Haza. The song is a modern interpretation of a traditional Yemenite Jewish melody, and it is filled with the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East. The lyrics are in English, and they speak to the mysteries of life and the power of love and faith.
The song begins with a haunting melody played on a traditional Middle Eastern instrument, and then Ofra’s voice enters softly, almost whispering the first verse. The chorus is powerful and emotional, with its repeated refrain of “Mystery, faith and love”. The lyrics speak to the universal human desire for understanding and connection, and the belief that love and faith can conquer even the greatest mysteries of life.
Overall, “Mystery, Faith and Love” is a beautiful and introspective song that speaks to the heart and soul. Ofra’s voice is powerful and emotional, and her performance is filled with sincerity and intensity. This song is a testament to the beauty of traditional Middle Eastern music, and it is sure to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
7. In Ta
“In Ta” is a captivating and rhythmic song by Ofra Haza. The song is a modern interpretation of a traditional Yemenite Jewish melody, and it is filled with the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East. The lyrics are in Hebrew, and they speak to the joys of dancing and living in the moment.
The song begins with a lively and catchy melody played on traditional Middle Eastern instruments, and then Ofra’s voice enters with a joyous shout of “In Ta”. The rhythm is infectious, and it is impossible not to be swept up in the joy and energy of the song. The chorus is repetitive and catchy, and it is sure to get listeners up on their feet and dancing.
Overall, “In Ta” is a fun and uplifting song that celebrates the beauty of life and the joy of dancing. Ofra’s voice is filled with energy and enthusiasm, and her performance is sure to put a smile on the faces of listeners. This song is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and lift their spirits.
8. Shaday
“Shaday” is the title track of Ofra Haza’s critically acclaimed 1988 album of the same name. The song is a powerful and uplifting anthem that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the human experience. The lyrics are in Hebrew, and they speak to the universal themes of love, hope, and the human spirit.
The song begins with a simple but powerful melody played on traditional Middle Eastern instruments, and then Ofra’s voice enters with a soaring cry of “Shaday”. The rhythm is infectious, and it is impossible not to be swept up in the energy and excitement of the song. The chorus is repetitive and catchy, and it is sure to get listeners singing along.
Overall, “Shaday” is a powerful and inspiring song that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the human experience. Ofra’s voice is filled with passion and emotion, and her performance is sure to touch the hearts of listeners. This song is a testament to the power of music to unite people across cultures and bring them together in celebration.
9. Sixth Sense
“Sixth Sense” is a haunting and mysterious song by Ofra Haza, one of Israel’s most beloved singers. The song is a modern interpretation of a traditional Yemenite Jewish melody, and it is filled with the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East. The lyrics are in English, and they speak to the power of intuition and the mystery of the unknown.
The song begins with a hypnotic melody played on a traditional Middle Eastern instrument called a qanun, and then Ofra’s voice enters softly, almost whispering the first verse. The chorus is unforgettable, with its repetitive and haunting chant of “Sixth sense, I feel it all around me”. The lyrics speak to the power of intuition and the sense of wonder and awe that it inspires.
Overall, “Sixth Sense” is a beautiful and mysterious song that transports listeners to another world. Ofra’s voice is powerful and soulful, and her performance is filled with emotion and intensity. This song is a testament to the beauty of traditional Middle Eastern music, and it is sure to captivate the hearts of listeners.
10. Don’t Forsake Me
“Don’t Forsake Me” is a powerful and emotional ballad by Ofra Haza, one of Israel’s most iconic singers. The song is a plea for love and understanding, and it is filled with the passion and intensity that made Ofra such a beloved artist. The lyrics are in English, and they speak to the pain of separation and the hope for reconciliation.
The song begins with a simple but powerful melody played on piano, and then Ofra’s voice enters softly, almost pleadingly. The chorus is heart-wrenching, with its repeated refrain of “Don’t forsake me, don’t say goodbye”. The lyrics speak to the universal human experience of loss and the desire for love and connection.
Overall, “Don’t Forsake Me” is a powerful and emotional song that speaks to the heart and soul of listeners. Ofra’s voice is a true gift, and her performance is filled with sincerity and emotion. This song is a testament to the power of love and the beauty of hope, and it is sure to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
