Israeli Musician in Los Angeles Bridges Cultures Amid Middle East Conflict

Eytan Ben David, an Israeli musician originally from Jerusalem who has lived in Los Angeles for 16 years, has been using his music to connect people across cultural and political divides during the ongoing war. He shared that he has received supportive messages from Iranians, including some who said his music changed their perceptions of Israelis and Jews. Ben David describes these moments as the reason he continues to create content aimed at building bridges between different peoples.

Ben David’s main project, "Peace Through Music," reflects his desire to use his musical talent to unite diverse audiences who typically do not interact. He has produced dozens of versions of a single song in various languages and styles, gaining global attention. A major breakthrough came when he released a cover of a song associated with protests in Israel, which garnered nearly 20 million views in four days and attracted many followers from Iran.

He often sings in the native languages of his listeners, surprising them and breaking down barriers. Ben David emphasizes that music’s power lies in transcending identity to open dialogue. Alongside his international music career, he feels a deep connection to his Jewish identity, which he finds more moving than his Israeli nationality. This connection led him to become a cantor and teach children Torah reading in synagogue.

Ben David’s mission is to use his online presence not just for popularity but to reach those with negative views about Israel and Jews, aiming to show kindness and foster understanding. He believes that in the digital age, opinions are shaped online, and he takes personal responsibility to "grow the light within" and gradually spread it between people worldwide.