The Poet of Israeli Spirituality

Etti Ankr

Age: 55

Known for: An Israeli singer-songwriter, Ankri has been called a "rock genius" and "the contemporary voice of...Israel."

About him: Born in the Israeli city of Lod to a Tunisian Jewish family, Etti Ankri was raised by her policeman father and homemaker mother. During her teen years, Etti was mentored by the Israeli actress Miriam Nevo, who taught at the Lod community center. Etti then served in the Israeli Education Corps before studying at the Rimon School of Jazz and Contemporary Music.

In 1990, Etti released her debut album, I Can See It in Your Eyes, which sold more than 90,000 copies. She has since released six more albums.

In 2004, Etti's music began to become more spiritual, returning to her Jewish roots.

Etti is known for her moving and emotional music, all of which she writes herself. She continues to write, record, and perform, while married to Israeli theater actor Doron Linik, with whom she has three children.