Five for Fighting Revamps Classic Song in Tribute to Israeli Hostages

Five for Fighting Revamps Classic Song in Tribute to Israeli Hostages

John Ondrasik, known widely as Five for Fighting, has reimagined his soulful hit “Superman” as a poignant tribute to Israeli hostages currently held in Gaza. This newly released version aims to shed light on their plight and inspire efforts towards their freedom.

During a recent appearance on Fox & Friends, Ondrasik shared that the tragic parallels between the Hamas attacks on October 7 and the September 11 attacks in the United States served as the catalyst for creating this new rendition. The day of the Hamas assault resulted in the loss of over 1,200 lives, marking it as a significant date in Israeli history.

He noted, “It became very clear that ‘Superman’ should be the song. For Israel, October 7 is their 9/11. With such historical weight, I felt compelled to act.”

The tribute encompasses all hostages, but Ondrasik highlighted one individual in particular: 24-year-old Alon Ohel, abducted from the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023. Idit Ohel, Alon’s mother, collaborated closely with Ondrasik to create the updated version and its accompanying music video.

Idit expressed that raising awareness about Alon’s situation is profoundly important. She stated, “People need to know that there are still hostages in Gaza and they must be released.” Her emotional commentary underscores the human cost of this ongoing conflict.

The conditions surrounding Alon remain dire. He suffered injuries during his abduction, with shrapnel lodged in his eye, and reports indicate he has received no medical care since the incident.

Idit painted a heartbreaking picture of her son’s captivity, describing him as shackled and starved each day. She concluded with a heartfelt plea, saying, “We really want him to come home.”

At the time of his capture, Alon was just 22 years old, and now, he has endured two birthdays spent in captivity. His deep passion for music makes this tribute especially significant for his family.

When reflecting on which song best encapsulated Alon’s story, Ondrasik recalled a childhood memory—the image of Alon in Superman pajamas resonated deeply. “Seeing the picture of him in his Superman jammies as a toddler made it very clear,” he remarked.

With a desire to honor the strength of families like Idit’s, Ondrasik adjusted the song’s lyrics to reflect their resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. The song, originally a symbol of recovery after 9/11, has now taken on additional meaning as it relates to the ongoing crisis.

During his past performances, Ondrasik delivered “Superman” to first responders, victims’ relatives, and at charity events aimed at recovery. He expressed that, in this context, the song’s message has changed in light of recent events.

Moreover, he pointed out, “The fact that we’re still discussing the return of hostages is an outrageous reflection of our humanity.” His insistence that compassion should overshadow political affiliations is a call for unity during this trying time.

More than a year ago, Ondrasik performed “Superman” at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, where families and supporters gather to advocate for the arrival of their loved ones. Alon’s brother participated in that performance by playing the piano in tribute to him.

Ondrasik dreams of a time when he can perform the song again, side by side with Alon. “I look forward to the day that we are at Hostage Square, with Alon and his brother next to me, playing ‘Superman.’ I believe that day will come, and we all pray for it too,” he expressed optimistically.

At present, approximately 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with less than half believed to be alive. Families continue to advocate for a ceasefire and the safe return of their loved ones. They also acknowledge the substantial loss of life in Gaza, where countless lives have been lost amidst the ongoing violence.

As the conflict persists, the song serves not only as a tribute to those who suffer but also as a unifying anthem that calls for peace and compassion. The powerful message embedded in Ondrasik’s reimagined hit underlines the need for humanity to transcend boundaries and empathize with the suffering of others.