A Revolution of Joy: The Story of Mizrahi Music, with Ophir Toubol Musical performance by Yehuda Keisar

The book A Revolution of Joy (Yedioth Books, 2024), edited by Ophir Toubol, tells the story of Mizrahi music in Israel through forty formative songs. Tracing the genre’s evolution from the era of vinyl to the age of YouTube, the book highlights the key figures who shaped its sound, including Jo Amar and Dudu Tassa.

Through in-depth analysis of the songs, the book reveals how Mizrahi music has reflected, amplified, and even propelled deep social change within Israeli society. Above all, it tells the story of a musical tradition that moved from a source of shame into a symbol of national pride, helping to bridge cultural and ethnic divides.

Toubol will speak with the audience about key turning points in the history of Mizrahi music, from the early days of the state to the present, and about how the genre’s transformation mirrors broader currents in Israeli society.

The evening will include live performances by legendary guitarist and Israel Prize Lifetime Achievement recipient Yehuda Keisar, together with his band.