In the lush surroundings of Neve Ilan, the air was thick with anticipation as the final of HaKokhav HaBa (The Next Star) unfolded, marking a pivotal moment in Israel’s musical calendar. Hosted by the charismatic duo Assi Azar and Rotem Sela, both famed for their previous Eurovision connections, the evening promised a spectacle of talent, aiming to select Israel’s representative for the upcoming Eurovision contest.
Since its inception in November 2023, HaKokhav HaBa has carved a niche for itself, seeking out Israel’s next musical prodigy through a grueling process of auditions, heats, and semi-finals. The journey culminated in tonight’s finale, where four hopefuls showcased their vocal prowess in a bid to follow in the footsteps of the illustrious Noa Kirel.
A Star is Born
The competition’s structure facilitated a high-octane showdown in its final stages, with the initial round whittling down the contestants to three superfinalists. Each artist performed with the hopes of capturing the hearts of the jury and the public alike. Eden Golan, with her rendition of “I Have Nothing” and later “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” emerged as the audience’s favorite, securing her position with a blend of jury and public votes.
Golan’s journey to the HaKokhav HaBa stage is both unique and inspiring. Initially aspiring to Olympic glory in artistic gymnastics, a spontaneous performance in a hotel lobby during a family vacation in Thailand redefined her path. This pivotal moment awakened her to the joy of singing, a passion that has since guided her career through various milestones, including a significant appearance on “The Voice Kids Russia 5” and her involvement in the girl group “Cosmos Girls.”
Israel’s Eurovision Legacy
The significance of HaKokhav HaBa extends beyond the discovery of new talent; it reaffirms Israel’s enduring legacy in the Eurovision Song Contest. With four victories to its name, Israel has consistently demonstrated its musical prowess on the international stage. The selection of Eden Golan not only represents the continuation of this legacy but also signals Israel’s commitment to showcasing diverse and dynamic musical talent.
The song that will carry Golan to the Eurovision stage is yet to be decided, with an internal committee set to make the selection from submissions by songwriters. This process ensures that the chosen piece will not only highlight Golan’s vocal talents but also resonate with Eurovision’s global audience, continuing Israel’s tradition of competitive excellence and cultural representation.
As Israel looks forward to the Eurovision 2024 contest, Eden Golan stands at the forefront of its musical ambitions, embodying the spirit of innovation and resilience that has characterized the nation’s Eurovision journey. Her rise from a young gymnast with a dream to the next star for Eurovision is a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring allure of the Eurovision Song Contest.