Yael Naim
'New Soul' hit, Israeli-French singer-songwriter, world music artist
Yael Naim was born on March 5, 1982, in Paris, France, to Israeli parents and grew up in a deeply musical household. She moved to Israel as a teenager and developed her craft as a singer-songwriter, drawing influence from folk, pop, and world music traditions. Her breakthrough came with the release of her self-titled debut album in 2007, which featured the internationally successful single 'New Soul.' The song's infectious melody and introspective lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, and its use in an Apple MacBook advertisement exposed it to millions of viewers globally, significantly boosting her career. 'New Soul' reached the top 10 in multiple countries and became a cultural touchstone of the late 2000s. Beyond this major hit, Naim has released multiple albums including Immigrant (2010) and Night After Night (2018), establishing herself as a respected artist in world music circles. Her distinctive vocal style and thoughtful songwriting explore themes of identity, belonging, and human connection. She has performed at major festivals and venues internationally and maintains a dedicated following. Naim's career exemplifies the success possible for Israeli artists in the global music industry.
Entertainment
French
1982
Thinking about the name
Yael
Hebrew origin
“A Hebrew name meaning 'to ascend' or 'to climb,' Yael carries a sense of aspiration and spiritual elevation. It has roots in biblical tradition and remains popular in Israel as a gender-neutral or feminine name that feels both modern and deeply rooted in Jewish heritage. The name's conciseness and strength make it appealing to parents seeking something meaningful without ornamentation.”