Yoram Taharlev, one of the most popular Israeli songwriters and poets, died Thursday after a long battle with cancer. He was 84.
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Born in Kibbutz Yagur in 1938 to Lithuanian immigrants, Taharlev began writing poems and plays at a young age. He remained at his kibbutz until age 26, later moving to Tel Aviv, which is when his career as a lyricist flourished.
Taharlev wrote over 125 hit songs for the military's entertainment troupes, which were particularly popular during the first few decades after Israel's inception. He penned hundreds of songs for top Israeli singers and bands, and his lyrics were regularly played on radio and TV stations.
"Yoram Taharlev, the man whose lyrics taught us the love of this country and told the story of its people, wars, and wonders, has left us this morning," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in a statement.
"Many of his songs have become the soundtrack of our country, seeing us through times of joy and sorrow, war and peace. Yoram is gone, but his work will be with us forever. May his memory be blessed."
President Isaac Herzog issues a statement saying, "It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Israeli songwriting giant, Yoram Taharlev, who penned some of the most beautiful songs in the nation's history.
"His poetry and lyrics are inalienable cultural assets. They will continue to light our way for generations to come. On behalf of the Israeli public, I send heartfelt condolences to his family."
Culture and Sports Minister Hili Tropper said Taharlev "has a profound impact on Israeli culture. He was one of the most prominent poets Israel has ever known, and his work is part of the foundation of Israeli culture."
Taharlev's casket will be placed at Habima National Theatre in Tel Aviv on Friday. He will be laid to rest at noon.
Habima, which had planned a gala event to celebrate his work, said the Jan. 14 event will now be held as a memorial.
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