Yom Yerushalayim: Listen To These 8 Timeless Tunes Celebrating Our Eternal City

Jerusalem, the heart of Jewish history and spirituality, has inspired a rich tapestry of music that captures its sacredness, resilience, and emotional pull. From ancient psalms to modern anthems, these Jewish songs reflect the enduring connection of the Jewish people to their eternal city.

Below is a curated list of eight classic Jewish songs about Jerusalem, complete with links to performances or recordings where available, celebrating the city’s profound significance in Jewish culture. These selections span traditional liturgy, folk, and contemporary genres, each rooted in Jewish identity.

1. Yerushalayim Shel Zahav (Jerusalem of Gold) (Naomi Shemer 1967)

Naomi Shemer’s masterpiece, often called Israel’s unofficial anthem, was written for the 1967 Israel Song Festival, just before the Six-Day War reunited Jerusalem’s Old City. Its haunting melody, inspired by a Basque lullaby, and lyrics of longing for the city make it iconic.

2. Im Eshkachech Yerushalayim (If I Forget Thee, Jerusalem) Shwekey

3. City of Gold - Blue Fringe

It's a pretty Jewish rock anthem that hits you right in the soul, channeling the raw pull of Jerusalem. This American Jewish band, known for mixing edgy rock vibes with deep Jewish roots, pours everything into this track, painting the holy city as a shimmering, sacred place that’s both a dream and a gut punch. The song’s driving beat and unfiltered lyrics capture the ache and awe of standing in Jerusalem’s glow, where history and holiness collide. It’s not just a song, it’s a love letter to a city that’s been through hell and still shines, speaking to anyone who’s ever felt its call.

4. Yerushalayim BaLev (Avraham Fried)

5. Sisu Et Yerushalayim (Rejoice in Jerusalem) – Dudu Fisher

Based on Isaiah 66:10, this joyous song by cantor Dudu Fisher calls for celebration of Jerusalem. Its upbeat melody is a hit at Jewish events. Fisher’s operatic delivery and biblical inspiration make it a vibrant tribute to Jerusalem’s joy.

6. Jerusalem - Not for Sale (Mordechai Ben David)

7. Yerushalayim Harim Saviva La (Miami Boys)

8. Jerusalem, Cry No More (Shwekey)