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Sunday, February 8, 2026
Matti Caspi, beloved singer and composer, dies aged 76
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleJessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel's culture and lifestyles editor, covers the Sabra scene from south to north and back to the center
Matti Caspi, a composer, singer, and lyricist who produced some 1,000 songs, including many of Israel’s most beloved tunes, dies aged 76.
He had suffered from cancer.
Caspi released some 1,000 songs and dozens of albums during his decades of work, often serving as both musician and producer for other singers and albums, with a unique ability to compose harmonies and lyrics that were eminently singable for his audiences.
He was deeply connected to his local audience — when he developed metastases from the cancer in May, he informed his followers on social media, letting fans know he was canceling his upcoming performances to focus on his health.
He launched a $1.5 million crowdfunding and media campaign to raise money for experimental treatments that were not included under the national healthcare system.
“I’ll fight in every way possible, I’ll be stubborn to the end,” said Caspi in July 2025, when his illness didn’t allow him to play the piano or guitar.
The Times of Israel Community.