In 1986, two debut albums changed Israeli pop forever. Behind the phenomenon was a romance that captivated the nation and a musical partnership that redefined what Israeli music could sound like. Meet Rami Kleinstein – the man who composed the songs that made Rita a star, and became one himself
Some artists master one segment of the music industry; others conquer both the spotlight and the studio. Rami Kleinstein belongs to the latter category. The New York-born musician who immigrated to Israel at age six has spent nearly fifty years revolutionizing Israeli pop music, being one of the producers who brought new international pop sounds into Israeli music in the 1980s.
Kleinstein’s path to stardom began in the Israel Defense Forces as musical director of a military band, where he worked together with his then girlfriend, a young singer named Rita, who has since become Israel’s prime vocalist and pop-diva. Their legendary musical partnership and a high-profile romance captivated the nation for years.
The year 1986 marked a seismic shift in Israeli music. Kleinstein and Rita simultaneously released their debut albums: his BaYom shel HaPtzatza (“On a Day of the Boom”) and her eponymous debut album, which featured his compositions and his musical production. Both albums exploded onto the scene, transforming the couple into Israel’s ultimate power duo overnight.
While Rita claimed the spotlight as performer, Kleinstein proved to be the mastermind behind the music, although he too turned into a successful pop star in his own right. His 1995 album Tapuchim VeTmarim (“Apples and Dates”) became his crowning achievement, selling 150,000 copies and earning platinum status – a testament to his ability to craft songs that resonated deeply with Israeli audiences. Among other projects, he can also boast a successful collaboration with singer-songwriter Keren Peles.
Even before his performing breakthrough, Kleinstein was shaping Israeli culture from behind the scenes, composing soundtracks including the 1984 Avi Nesher film Za’am VeTehilah (“Rage and Glory”). His musical DNA has proven remarkably durable: daughters Meshi and Noam have both carved out successful artistic careers, ensuring the Kleinstein legacy continues.
Though Rami and Rita divorced, their musical impact remains intertwined. Now 62, remarried, and father to three additional children, Kleinstein stands as one of Israeli pop’s most enduring figures – a contemporary musical architect whose melodies have provided the soundtrack to decades of Israeli life.
Main Photo\ Illustration by Shay Charka
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