Liel Kolet is 18 and an international ambassador of peace. She was raised in a kibbutz in a war-torn parts of Israel. She recorded her first album, Kineret Child, at 12. At 15, she was performing Imagine on Shimon Peres’ 80th birthday. Kolet has collaborated with legendary artists such as Herbie Hancock, Madonna, Bono andothers. On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Israel’s independence, Liel Kolet sings in Mumbai on behalf of the Consulate General of Israel. Riddhi Kamal Parekh speaks to her
How does it feel to have accomplished so much so young?
I am not 19 yet. I have been working very hard in the music business since I was 12 and have gained a lot of experience — I did many concerts, TV shows and learned a lot. I am very proud and feel very lucky to have accomplished so much.
You have sung at over 350 peace concerts. Are such events powerful enough to send the message of peace to those who need to hear it?
I believe that music is the best way to communicate with people of all religions. I got a gift from God and I am trying to use it to help others, especially children. When I, as an Israeli, received a letter from a young girl in Iran saying that I give her hope with my music, I knew that I was doing something important.
I am very, very exited to perform in India. It was my dream for many years. I am partly Indian and I have family in India (Kolet’s grandfather’s brother was the finance minister of India); it is part of my roots.
You grew up in a strife-torn part of the world. How has this affected your career and your songs?
This is why I am devoted to promoting peace and helping children who live in war zones. I wrote a song called The Dream of Tomorrow (I will perform it in India) — I am sure that when people hear the lyrics, it affects them.
There are many artists who raise money for peace causes, but I know what it feels to be in a warring area, so I do it from my heart and soul. I have raised millions of dollars for peace and I will keep doing so.
You are official ambassador for two international peace organisations in the US and UK. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has nominated you as the official ambassador for the north of Israel. How does music help you to spread the message of peace?
Music has magic, it touches the heart and soul. It is the strongest and most effective way to make people understand the importance of being tolerant and kind to each other regardless of religion, colour or culture.
You have sung with former US president Bill Clinton and German president Horst Kohler. Who was the better singer?
They all sing from their hearts and that is most important…
You worked with the Scorpions…
That was such a great experience! The Scorpions was one of the most successful rock bands — but they are so nice and down to earth; success has not changed them. They showed me what a real artist is all about. It was a great honour for me to record duets with them.
You sang with Herbie Hancock, Bono, Slash, Andrea Bocelli…
Each one was incredible. Herbie Hancock is a legend; when I performed with him, I looked back a few times to see if it was real that he was playing for me! Bono is the nicest and kindest person I have met.
On July 25, you will be performing at the Global Peace Music Awards in Los Angeles alongside Stevie Wonder, Beyonce, Shakira, Jay-Z...
Of course! Stevie Wonder is one of my idols and I am lucky to be on the same stage with him. Also, this concert is about peace, so it is important for me to be part of it.
What do you consider the greatest milestones in your career?
Every time I achieved something, I felt that it was my highest point…At the end of the month I perform inRome for the Pope and world leaders at a peace summit. This is one of the highest points in my career.
Tata Theatre, NCPA, May 13, 6.30pm
(Email: p_riddhi@dnaindia.net)
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