The Amazing Rabbis, Aryeh and Gil Gat, might have a simple name, but their music is anything but! These two Orthodox Jewish brothers have been lighting up YouTube for more than ten years with their incredible rock covers, performed right on the streets of Jerusalem. With their jaw-dropping take on Dire Straits’ “Sultans of Swing,” these rock-loving rabbis gave one of the most unforgettable performances the Holy City has ever seen!
Their version of “Sultans of Swing” has racked up nearly 2 million views, and it’s easy to see why. Viewers have called it “a masterclass in control and execution,” and they’re not wrong. Aryeh, the lead singer, also plays acoustic guitar and even drums at the same time—without missing a beat! Meanwhile, Gil’s fingers fly over the guitar strings, delivering smooth and lightning-fast solos. By the end of the video, a crowd has gathered, completely mesmerized, tossing coins into their guitar case in appreciation.
In the world of Haredi Judaism, most people avoid secular music and Western culture, but the Gat brothers have found a way to embrace the very best of classic rock. They first went viral with an outstanding cover of Pink Floyd’s “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” which has now been watched over 6.6 million times. Their YouTube channel features other rock legends too, including “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles, and “Hotel California” by The Eagles.
One of their biggest moments came in 2013 when they stepped onto the stage of the Israeli talent show “Rising Star.” They performed a hauntingly beautiful version of Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence.” While other contestants had slicked-back hair and flashy outfits, the Gat brothers stood out with their ultra-Orthodox appearance. But their talent and passion were undeniable, and they quickly won the audience over. The irony? Neither of them even owns a television!
Even with their strict religious beliefs, these Rabbis of Rock have found a way to share their music with the world while staying true to their faith. Aryeh explained in an interview with The Washington Post, “We don’t cross any red lines. We have the blessing of our rabbis. The food is proper. We don’t see immodest dress. We don’t see the women dancing.”
Their love for rock music started long before their religious journey. Growing up in Eilat by the Red Sea, Aryeh and Gil were obsessed with legendary bands like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Dire Straits. Even after embracing Orthodox Judaism, their passion for music never faded. They believe that music has the power to bring people together, no matter their background. As they told AP News, “Music brings down all barriers between secular people, religious people. There is this kind of love […] The power of music is above everything.”
And that’s exactly what makes The Amazing Rabbis so special—their music is for everyone, and it speaks straight to the soul!
