'BDS is a scam': Why Israeli music icon David Broza still believes in the power of art

In this special 500th episode of the Haaretz Podcast, host Alison Kaplan-Sommer sits down with legendary Israeli musician David Broza, celebrating his 50-year career and enduring commitment to peace through art. Broza reflects on his iconic journey—from his formative years in Spain, where he absorbed jazz and Spanish poetry, to his return to Israel and the creation of groundbreaking music that bridges cultures and conflicts. He discusses the emotional weight of his most famous song, 'Ye Tov,' written in 1977 as a plea for peace and an end to occupation, and how its relevance remains undimmed decades later. Broza passionately defends collaboration over boycott, calling the BDS movement a 'scam' that harms Palestinians more than anyone, and shares powerful stories from his work in refugee camps and with both Israeli and Palestinian artists. Despite the current political climate's polarization, Broza remains deeply hopeful, believing that art—especially music—can create lasting human connection, even in the darkest times. He closes the episode with a moving performance of 'Ye Tov,' underscoring his belief that love and understanding can ultimately bring people back around.