Israeli lyricist and poet Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav dies at 74
A major figure in Israeli music, Lahav passed away at the age of 74 after an illness, leaving behind a significant body of work and lyrics that have become classics
Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav, one of Israel’s most influential songwriters and poets, has died at the age of 74 following a prolonged illness, her family confirmed. She is survived by her partner and three sons.
A central figure in Israeli music for decades, Lahav began her career in the Paratroopers’ Brigade entertainment troupe before emerging as a leading voice in songwriting. She went on to write a string of enduring hits, including “Yemei Hatom,” “Perach,” “Af Ahat,” and “Romeo,” songs that became deeply embedded in Israeli culture.
Her work extended to some of the country’s most iconic musical projects, including contributions to the legendary album “Sof Onat HaTapuzim” by the band Tamouz. Over the years, her lyrics were performed by top Israeli artists such as Rami Kleinstein, Rita, Yehudit Ravitz, and Yehuda Poliker.
Beyond music, Lahav was also an accomplished author, publishing several literary works and earning major recognition for her contributions to Israeli culture, including the ACUM Lifetime Achievement Award and the Erik Einstein Prize.
Her son, musician Yonatan Lahav, paid tribute to her, describing her as “an exceptional woman, intelligent, with a pure heart and full of love for life,” adding that her songs “touched the hearts of so many.”
Lahav’s legacy leaves a lasting imprint on Israeli music and literature, with her words continuing to resonate across generations.