Singer Hedva Amrani Releases New Single and Reflects on Life Between Israel, US, and Japan

Israeli singer Hedva Amrani released a new single titled "Instead of a Letter," featuring lyrics by Ehud Manor and music by Eyal Mazig. In an interview on Kan News Radio's "At Noon," Amrani shared the song's history, revealing she initially thought Manor wrote it for her in the 1980s, but it was first recorded by Chava Alberstein with music by Nahum Heyman. Living in the United States for many years while frequently visiting Israel, Amrani connected the song's lyrics to her personal life, especially the early years of her marriage, describing the time difference between her and her husband as symbolic of their communication challenges.

Amrani also discussed her deep bond with Japan, which began after winning first place at the 1970 Yamaha International Song Festival performing "I Dream of Naomi" with David Tal. She called Japan her second home and expressed feeling more alienated in America despite living there. Last month, she visited Japan at the invitation of the Israeli ambassador, performing for government officials and diplomats amid some pro-Palestinian protests, which she said were difficult but manageable.

Despite residing in the US, Amrani emphasized her enduring love for Israel, lamenting the country's divisions but affirming that Israel will always be her home and that she dreams in Hebrew. The interview also touched on her upcoming album and personal reflections on motherhood and emotional changes.