Influential Israeli Music Producer Michal Barnett Dies at 66
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Michal Barnett, a key creator and music producer who influenced Israeli music, has died at 66. She is best known for writing the lyrics to Rita's 1986 hit "Derech Ha'Bricha." Barnett also produced numerous classic albums for artists like Yehudit Ravitz and Danny Sanderson before moving into marketing. Her death is mourned by many in the Israeli music community.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Influential Israeli creator and music producer Michal Barnett died at age 66.
- Barnett penned the lyrics for Rita's 1986 breakthrough hit "Derech Ha'Bricha."
- She produced seminal albums for artists including Yehudit Ravitz and Danny Sanderson.
- Barnett also wrote lyrics for Yardenah Arzi's song "Kevaim Reḥokim."
- She later transitioned to a successful career in branding and marketing.
Michal Barnett, a highly regarded creator and music producer who significantly shaped Israel's music scene, has passed away at the age of 66. Barnett was instrumental in defining the sound of Israeli pop in the 1980s, most notably as the lyricist for Rita's iconic hit "Derech Ha'Bricha" (The Escape Route). This song propelled Rita to stardom and redefined local pop music.
Barnett's contribution to "Derech Ha'Bricha" came about in 1986 while she was producing Rita's debut album for Helicon Records. When the composer Rami Kleinstein's melody lacked suitable lyrics, Barnett penned the powerful words that led to Rita's groundbreaking performance at that year's Pre-Eurovision contest, cementing the song's status as a classic.
Despite her talent for songwriting, Barnett primarily focused on music production. She held senior producer roles at leading Israeli record labels NMC and Helicon during the 1980s. In these positions, she produced numerous acclaimed albums, including "Derech Ha'Mesh" by Yehudit Ravitz, "Haf Pashi" by Danny Sanderson, and "Namal Bayit" by Chava Alberstein.
Her close relationships with prominent Israeli musicians were highlighted during her work on Yoni Rechter and Ali Mohr's album "B'Gova Ha'Einayim" (At Eye Level). Rechter and Mohr even affectionately wrote and composed a song for her titled "Michal Barnett-Cohen."
Later in her career, Barnett transitioned from the music industry to branding, strategy, and marketing, where she also found success. Her passing leaves a void among the many artists and creators who remember her precise touch, artistic sensitivity, and crucial role in pivotal moments of Israeli music.