The Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is known for its unique traditions that include food and special customs. But, over the years the music has also become an integral part of the holiday, with traditional songs often making way for modern artists and tunes.
Ynetnews has compiled a list of some of the best Hannukah tunes to add to your holiday playlist.
Award-winning performer David Daniel Diggs knows his way around a song, having starred as both the Marquis de Lafayette and founding father Thomas Jefferson in the Broadway hit musical "Hamilton." Diggs has said his mixed Jewish and African American race has contributed to his self identification and is very prominent in his music as well.
Kosha Dillz, born Rami Matan Even-Esh, is an Israeli American rap artist who was first inspired by bar mitzvah songs. He brings his Jewish roots to the forefront of his music and has collaborated with rap stars such as Ghostface Killah, Snoop Dogg, Matisyahu and many more. His latest single "Happy Chinooka" is dedicated entirely to the Festival of Light.
The all-male a cappella group the Maccabeats has always been able to connect with music lovers of all stripes. The talented 14-strong group was founded by all undergraduates at the Yeshiva University in 2007. They are best known for their parody covers of holiday songs, including Hanukkah tunes.
Nissim Black was born in Seattle to musician parents as Damian Jamohl Black, and considered himself Muslim until his teens. His early career revolved around gangster rap, but after a violent incident and a lot of soul searching he found his path to Judaism. He recently collaborated with Kosha Dillz on a special holiday tune, called "The Hanukkah Song 2.0."
Black has been speaking out against antisemitism in American, and recently released a single, which he describes as his answer to the Jew hatred. "It's much more than just a candlelight, because we've fought more than just a little fight," Black raps.
New York-based Six 13 is another all male a cappella group that derives its name from the 613 commandments of the Torah. They rely only on their voices and present a wide range of musical styles, including pop, rock, hip hop, doo wop, and jazz.
They are best known for their parodies, but have original songs as well, based on Jewish prayers. They were even invited to the White House where they performed their particular version of the hit musical, Hamilton.
Last but not least, there is also Jewish comedy superstar Adam Sandler, who has been bringing Hanukkah tunes to television and stage since gaining popularity many years ago. His latest is the fourth sequel to Sandler's original "The Chanukah Song."
And, if we've missed any, let us know and we will gladly add them to our radar ahead of next year's holiday.