Hugely popular duo Static and Ben El announced Thursday that they would be going separate ways, after seven years of working together in Israel and abroad.
The two singers – Liraz Russo and Ben El Tavori – wrote in a joint post on their Instagram accounts, saying “we both decided it was time for each of us to walk our own way.”
“Loved ones, friends, dear audience, our family. It’s time for us to sort out all the rumors and mess you’ve heard,” the two wrote. “This amazing project called Static and Ben El completely changed our lives.
“From two kids with a dream, to the composition of the decade, millions of views, thousands of performances in Israel and abroad, and truly satisfying work, and a dream that has come true, all thanks to you. So, first of all, a huge thank you from us to you. This decision was not easy but it is not new either. We still love each other very much and of course we will support each other in everything,” the Instagram post said.
“We feel that we have reached musical exhaustion of the project and we each want to explore ourselves individually and bring you new music that breaks boundaries, just like we did seven years ago. Of course, all the existing performances will take place as usual and any other commitment will be fulfilled to the best of our ability. We love you a lot, we are not going anywhere. See you in our new incarnation.”
"We both decided that it was time for each of us to walk our own way. This amazing project called Static and Ben El completely changed our lives."
Static and Ben El
The duo was one of Israel’s most popular and prolific acts, with a string of hits like “Tudo Bom,” “Kvish Hahof,” and “Yasso.” They were also ubiquitous on TV advertising campaigns and as music reality show judges.
The duo's journey
Static and Ben El went from local sensations to would-be international superstars when Israeli-American mogul Haim Saban brokered a 10-year, $5 million record deal with Capitol Records for them in 2018.
However, despite releasing several songs in English, including collaborations with Pitbull, Snoop Dogg and Black Eyed Peas, they never caught traction in the US and beyond.
The duo’s separation announcement comes against the backdrop of Ben El’s personal conflict with his ex-partner Ortal Amar. About three months ago, Static and Ben El’s management team informed the latter that they expected him to solve his personal problems and that they would not be able to continue like this for long.
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“He caused damage to the pair, involving millions of shekels,” sources privy to the details told Ynet. “The managers wanted more time to try and resolve the issue, but the massive pressure on Ben El left no choice.”