Aviv Geffen
Photo: Ronen Fadida
Aviv Geffen: 'Political reasons' behind axing from Independence Day ceremoney
Well-known Israeli rocker says was approached to perform 'Yoman Massah,' a song he wrote for Arik Einstein, at annual torch-lighting ceremony, but then never heard back from production; Channel 2: Minister Regev behind move.
Israeli rocker Aviv Geffen has claimed the decision to axe him from Israel's 70th Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony on Mount Herzl was motivated by politics.
Several months ago, the ceremony's production company approached Geffen, asking if he would be willing to perform hit song "Yoman Massah," originally written for the late Arik Einstein, another well-known Israeli rocker. Geffen was supposed to perform the song at the ceremony with singer Sarit Hadad.
Minister Regev and Aviv Geffen (Photos: Alex Kolomoisky, Anat Mosberg)
But while Geffen confirmed his participation, he did not hear back from the production company.
According to Channel 2 journalist Amit Segal, Culture and Sports Minister Miri Regev, who is entrusted with planning the ceremony as well as other events to celebrate Israel's 70th Independence Day, was the one who instructed the production company not to get back to Geffen.
"I learned from the media that I won't be appearing in this year's torch-lighting ceremony, after being asked to take part," Geffen wrote in response. "The official reason: The song Yoman Massah doesn't fit (the occasion). The real reason: Politics."
Minister Regev did not comment on the matter.
The Culture Ministry's PR Center said in response, "Aviv Geffen will not be appearing at the torch-lighting ceremony due to a decision made by professionals entrusted with the production and the ceremony's artistic content. The list of artists has been closed."
