Matti Caspi (1949-2026)

Video: Matti Caspi performing “Brit Olam” (music: Matti Caspi, lyrics: Ehud Manor) at Beit Avi Chai, 2019.

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Matti Caspi, one of the most influential composers and musicians in Israeli music history, passed away at age 76 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His death marks the end of a prolific musical career spanning nearly six decades, during which he composed countless Israeli classics that became part of the country’s musical heritage.

Born in 1949 in Kibbutz Hanita, Caspi displayed extraordinary musical talent from a very early age. In the late 1960s, he enlisted in the Southern Command Band (Lehakat Pikud Darom), launching what would become one of Israeli music’s most distinguished careers.

A multi-instrumentalist with a unique ear for harmony, Caspi elevated Israeli music by seamlessly weaving together classical, Brazilian, and Latin rhythms, jazz, and rock into a rich, distinctly Israeli yet internationally informed sound. His songs and instantly recognizable singing voice became hallmarks of a more complex, sophisticated era in Hebrew music.

Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous Israeli musicians – as composer, musical producer, arranger, etc. –  leaving an indelible mark on generations of artists. His evergreen classics will forever remain treasured gems of Israel’s musical heritage.

May his memory be blessed.