Sarit Hadad, born Sarah Hudadatov on 20 September 1978, emerged as a dominant force in Israeli pop, specifically within the Mizrahi music scene. Recognized early as a musical prodigy, she developed proficiency in several instruments before establishing a professional career that spanned decades and included numerous chart-topping albums and a significant Eurovision appearance.
Early Development and Musical Background
Born in Afula to a family of Mountain Jews who migrated from Dagestan in 1976, Hadad was the youngest of eight children. The family moved to Hadera in 1980. By age ten, she showcased her abilities in a young talent contest playing piano. Her self-taught instrumental range eventually included the organ, guitar, accordion, and the traditional Middle Eastern drum known as the darbuka. She joined the Hadera Youth Band at age 15 and was discovered by her long-term manager, Avi Gueta, a year later.
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Hadad established herself as a prolific recording artist with the 1995 release of Spark of Life. Her output remained consistent, including albums like Law of Life in 1998 and Sweet Illusions in 2001. In 2002, she represented Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest with the entry 'Nadlik Beyakhad Ner' ('Light a Candle'), finishing in 12th place. Her regional popularity expanded internationally through tours, including a 2006 trek across New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles.
Artistic Style and Professional Recognition
Her performances often integrate Arabic lyrics into the Mizrahi genre, reflecting a diverse musical palette that encompasses Hebrew, English, Russian, Greek, Turkish, and Bulgarian. She holds the distinction of being the first Israeli artist to perform professionally in Jordan. In 2010, Channel 24 and Galgalatz designated her the best female singer of the 2000s decade. Her industry contributions include serving as a judge during the inaugural season of The Voice Israel.
Personal Life
Hadad adheres to Judaism, a commitment that informs her performance schedule, as she does not appear on stage during Jewish holidays or the Sabbath. In September 2021, she publicly identified as queer and introduced her partner, Tamar Yahalomi, alongside the release of the song 'Ahava Kmo Shelanu.' She is the mother of three daughters: Noya, born in 2017; Shira, born in 2020; and Adele Esther, born in 2022. The couple separated in June 2025.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 September 1978, Afula, Israel
- Manager: Avi Gueta
- Eurovision Participation: 2002
- Key Genre: Mizrahi
- Debut Album: Spark of Life (1995)
- Children: Noya, Shira, Adele Esther
- Relationship: Tamar Yahalomi (Partner 2021-2025)
Questions readers ask
Did Sarit Hadad win Eurovision?
No. She represented Israel in the 2002 Eurovision Song Contest with the song 'Light a Candle' and placed 12th.
What instruments does Sarit Hadad play?
She is proficient in classical piano, organ, guitar, accordion, and the darbuka.
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