Grief Inspires Israeli Father to Become Musician After Son's Murder on Oct. 7

Itzik Rosenberg, a former freight train driver, has turned his profound grief into a burgeoning music career after his 17-year-old son, Matan, was murdered during the Hamas attacks on October 7. Rosenberg, who lived a quiet life in Dimona, was visiting his wife's parents in Moshav Yeted in the Gaza envelope when the attacks began. His son Matan, who had driven them to the location the day before, was killed while attending a party. Rosenberg, his wife, and other children survived by hiding for hours before being rescued. The family also lost Itzik's brother-in-law and his wife's brother in the attack, totaling three family members killed that day.

Following the massacre and his personal loss, Rosenberg began therapy. During treatment, he was advised to write about his experiences, which led him to discover a passion for songwriting. Despite having no prior musical experience, he joined a songwriting workshop led by Ronit Shachar. He gradually learned to play music, compose, and perform his own lyrics, finding music to be the best medicine for his trauma and loss.

His songs primarily focus on life after October 7, his relationship with his deceased son Matan, navigating grief within his family, and the stories of other bereaved families. One song, "Nerkod Ba'Zikaron" (We Will Dance in Memory), was inspired by a friend who also lost her son at the same party. "HaKikar Im HaTmunah" (The Square with the Picture) refers to Dizengoff Square in Tel Aviv, where a picture of Matan is displayed, a place Rosenberg visits to connect with his memories.

Rosenberg has already released several songs and is nearing completion of his second album. He emphasizes that his motivation is not fame, but the therapeutic and healing power of music for his body and soul, calling it "the best medicine there is."