On this day in 1939, legendary Israeli singer, songwriter, actor, and comedian, Arik Einstein, was born in Tel Aviv. Considered by many as the “voice of Israel,” Einstein would grow up to become a pioneer of Israeli rock; to this day he is regarded as the most popular and influential Israeli artist of all time. With a career that spanned over 50 years, with the release of over 500 songs and 34 albums, Einstein is forever remembered as a key part of Israeli culture. Born as Arieh Lieb Einstein, Einstein was raised in Tel Aviv as an only child. At his father’s encouragement, he joined the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) band with the Nahal Brigade — an IDF unit that has historically featured some of Israel’s most talented musicians. During his time there, his unique voice began to stand out as a solo talent.Following the end of his army service, Einstein joined the band Batzal Yarok (The Green Onion) and by 1960, had released his first solo album using the pseudonym “Ari Goren”. Four years later, Einstein played a role in the classic Israeli comedy film, Sallah Shabbati.In 1973, Einstein embarked on a project called “Eretz Israel Hayeshana Vehatova” — The Old and Good Land of Israel. He renewed songs from the early 20th century through the early years of the State. Being more of a passion project, Einstein later said he did it because he loved to sing the songs as opposed to ‘keeping them alive’. During the ‘70s, Einstein was also part of a comedy sketch show known as Lool (Chicken Coop) as an actor and singer. On November 26, 2013, Einstein passed away at the age of 74 after suffering an aortic aneurysm. The entire nation of Israel mourned collectively and the radio played his music nonstop for 48 hours. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described him as the “soundtrack of Israel” and his funeral was attended by tens of thousands of people.