A More detailed Interview with Gil on 2010

Just how much do you know about Gil Ofarim? How much do you know him? Here is another interview, and I say, it`s the most detailed one. His answers tell more stories that most of his fans didn`t know or heard of. Let`s read this on, and please bear with me concerning the English translation.

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BR-ONLINE | The online catalog of the Bavarian Radio

Shipment of 23.7.2010, 20.15 clock

 (Translated into English via Google Translate)

Gil Ofarim Musician and actor in an interview with Torsten Münchow

Münchow: Welcome to the alpha forum. Today I welcome the actor and - primarily - Musician Gil Ofarim. The first question will likely always put in your life, is the following: As it is, big as the son of Abi Ofarim with such a father to have become?

Ofarim: I do not know. For people who do not know, because with no father have such a background, it's definitely something exciting. For me that is told in Bavarian simple: "Mei, this is the daddy." It is the dad and so good for me. However, one thing I knew early on: My dad is not like the others Papas. But the dad is the dad. 

Münchow: What's been different about your dad?

Ofarim: When my brother Tal and picked me up from school, then he was not the geschleimten with the handkerchief and the backward Hair, or the Burberry jacket, but he was the dad with the Boots and long hair. You already at the sound of his Recognized car keys, that now is the daddy.

Münchow: You already mentioned your brother Tal. The name is Gil in Hebrew means "joy" and you were also raised Jewish. What is about Tal?

Ofarim: valley called in Hebrew "morning dew". My mother's ulterior motive to this name was - at least as far as I know - the following: Prior to my birth it was very difficult for her because the doctor said to my mother

was that she could not possibly have children. But was eventually Gil then just because that was a great joy for my parents. You have searched by name, and they have long argued about it because they favored different name. When I was there, they have sometime in the name of "Joy", the meaning of the Old Gil

Testament - agreed. The birth of Tal was even more difficult than that of me, because he was born with a brain fever. Was then he called "morning dew".

Münchow: You're following in the footsteps of your father's early. It was also at Father, that you have very soon opted for the music? How did it to?

Ofarim: music was at our home course ubiquitous. So there were very many Plates with which I could handle and I knew very early age of three, how the needle of the record player to the plate must bring. Also were friends of Papa, the musicians frequently or artists were visiting us and there was always somewhere a tool around on the ground, with which one could do something. I can not imagine what would have happened to me if my daddy dentist would be. The mere thought is crazy for me, but I do not think I would then also dentist. I think in any case that it and perhaps even a little has actually rubbed off on me a lot.

Münchow: In the newly published biography of your father titled "Light and Shadow "I have also brought a photograph is printed, that the Contributes Caption: "Gil knew early on what he wanted and how." I believe that I have to show that just once. This is virtually the music. In this book there is also a lot of stories, for example about the Time in which you together with your father in a Schwabinger WG have lived. How is it actually happened that the twelve year old son left the mother to go to the Father? 

Ofarim: A breakup is always hard for the children. When me and my brother there was always a clear distinction: He was more of the Mummy Young as I was the dad-boy. In the separation I wanted then just for Dad and I lived with him. When I reached puberty and time began, where you talked about certain things and more experienced and has done together, it was very cool on the one hand, live together with his father and do everything together. Onto the other hand, it was also very difficult because he was a few years

my manager was. That was exhausting, helpful and instructive, sometimes but also just exhausting.

Münchow: Papa So as a manager and as a dad. They're relatively early in the Discovered street from a headhunter called the magazine "Bravo" Service. So it is for sure in the biography of your father. Then appeared a photo love story in the "Bravo" and began a Big fuss about the person Gil Ofarim. How did that happen? 

Ofarim: I was on my way home from school and ran to the subway, I was approached by a talent scout for the "Bravo". He asked me if I would imagine to participate in a photo love story. School friends of mine had done this once already. You get a Super pocket money, are in the "Bravo" and find the girls in school you class, so I thought to myself: "Yes, I will." Before I went there, I told the father of it, and he wanted come naturally: "Gil, maybe it's better if I go with him and take care. Then you get the role in any case. "Do not know why, But for me, it was clear that I had to go there alone. I was it simply disconnect: The dad is the dad and I am. I'm so alone gone, still got the role, and then it went off. Originally I had there actually a supporting role, but due to the Fan Mail and the positive response has been rewritten and the role of Starring converted. It was totally crazy: On the one hand had I still go to school, but in the afternoon I was of picked up a bus to get to the photo ops. You are then any marketplace and teens suddenly go past you and say, "Look, that's so and so!" At the beginning of the course is great, but eventually you realize that it's too damn hard work. So it was getting more and more crazy. At the end of the photo- Love Story I had a private "Bravo" cover with my photo them, and before you even knew my real name, because I was only Tobi from the photo love story. I've also during Photo of Love Story played a musician and was always with the guitar

road and had a band in the story. So the idea was of course near to look, if the boy actually can do something. We then recorded a single which came in the top 100, and we got very quickly a record deal. One thing led to another. 

Münchow: From the book of your father also shows that you 31 gold Have records, of which many also from Asia come. So you were with three different titles and with 15 years ranked 1, 2 and 3 in the Japanese and Chinese charts. How are the young man, the student or the child Gil Ofarim react when he gets off the plane and the crowd screams? 

Ofarim: At the beginning of a dream for you is of course true. Even in retrospect, the still the best thing that ever happened to me, and it was also the best School for me. On the one hand it's great, but on the other side it is a lot of work and very stressful. I do not know why it works for me went so well in the Asian market. On something I was very proud: it was there is not, as in Germany or Europe, first to the face with a

Story first and then the music. Here we had already the PR and you then said: "Yes, of course due to the 'Bravo' the boy is just where he. being. "In Asia, there was no" Bravo ", but there simply was the single

out, which had published the record company in Asia. Without that I had ever been on site or promotion would have done, went the single to number 1 Then I flew for the first time there and Then came before me at times like Michael Jackson. I'll never forget I first arrived in Bangkok at the airport. They had to throughout the terminal block, because there were 10,000 people. There were Girls who had come from anywhere there to just have a look at catch. It was just absolutely amazing. The consequence is then, of course, that you can hardly still at home and barely brunette Has friends, because one works only. The tag looks like this: You get up by 7 clock, have breakfast somewhere between the hotel lobby and Conference hall, lunch, there is then maybe the bus. Then you have evening or late-night show up at 0.30 or 1 clock, so you then just sleep only four or five hours. The next morning we all the madness all over again. As all this started, I was 14, I was 17 and then they're really sick. But the contracts yes must be met, which is why we continue to make anyway. 

Münchow: you have started with the music and still make music. But they also play many well-known TV films as among other "The Flood", which was a popular song a few years ago. As it is for Gil Ofarim, if he's acting and making music? What do you like prefer? This is stupid question naturally arises very often, but still:

You might love the acting but more or you want both connect with each other?

Ofarim: The music was in me since I can remember. My father always says that I did when I was little, at parties and celebrations was always the one in the Middle was and wanted to show what he can, and then danced, sung or anything else did. Music was, as I said, already always there, but the acting came through much later and more a chance to do so. For me acting is a great art and I say quite honestly that I neither play nor a training Have training spokesperson. Nevertheless, it makes a lot of fun and it excites me very well. I was allowed to play already in really good films, have great respect for it and would like to watch movies in the future making. There are really great actors in Germany, and if I am lucky again to get a role, I would like to do. But I feel the music well, whereas the Acting for me, although it has a certain charm, even if I would not seriously call yourself as an actor. Since there are, as told people that much better and make the much longer. Before which I really respect. Making music, I know that I can.

Münchow: We will also show in a moment. Yes they have a new group founded: After "Zoo Army" Now you have your new band "eight". It but I want more detail later. Me - and our viewers certainly - like other aspects of the life of Father Abi and son Gil. In the book of your father, there are some very funny Stories and including your expensive guitar with the Father. The You have to actually tell myself. 

Ofarim: I must have been about three or four years old at the time. So exactly I can not remember it, but my parents told me the story that way. I had at this time a small ukulele because I always wanted to play guitar, but a real guitar not even lift let alone play. Dad had an outrageously expensive Acoustic guitar. I do not even know what make it was, but she was pretty as a picture. Eventually I came to him from the living room

and said, "Dad, I've seen something on TV and can now Play guitar! "My father, proud as he was, gave me his guitar, which he umhatte the moment. What I had seen on television, was "Tommy" by The Who and it was probably struck me as the guys there smash the guitar, and I thought to myself: "Well, I can do that."

So I took the guitar of my father and destroyed it. 

Münchow: How many years do you have in common with your father in Schwabing spent?

Ofarim: I am, as I said, pulled by twelve to my dad. We are then incredibly moved often: First we moved towards free man, later We lived in Laim at the other end of Munich, until we eventually directly went to the Munich Schwabing freedom. There, I feel me as if I was finally arrived, as if exactly my area was. No matter how many times I then moved yet, I always came back back to Schwabing and especially at the Münchner Freiheit. There we have perhaps lived four or five years and then Bogenhausen drawn. Eventually I went into my first Apartment pulled that really was back at Münchner Freiheit. 

Münchow: you have your music, especially in the Asian region with great success played. Your brother Tal   then already in your band or how did it to work with him?

Ofarim: It started when the video for our first single "Round and Round" decency. We needed some sequences from a tape to a Stage. Then it happened very quickly: I had two friends who unfortunately had no time and I therefore turn to a friend of theirs mediated. So I already had a guitarist in the band. One Drummer and was about Kurt Kress, a friend of my dad's one of the most famous drummers in Germany, found his son Lauro, also a great drummer, so did the band. We had but still no bass player. Tal had always played bass and so it was obvious that he also joined them. The crazy thing the whole story is that I thought at the time - I was 14 - very young to have been. But my brother is indeed another two years younger than

I am. He has been through this rigmarole so with twelve. I 'll never forget when we had our first gig, which in the Olympiahalle the 6-day race was held in Munich. We were totally excited and nervous. Someone from the local administration department came to us and said, "Good day please Passes." He then said that we

are young and therefore not likely to the stage. I only know that my dad said: "Children, please go get out of the room!" The door closed behind the door and there was a huge noise and clamor, and anything has also fallen. I can still remember that the guy from the KVR eventually came out again and said, "Ok, that's fine." Then but we were allowed to play in the Olympic Hall, although only a part of us was twelve years old.

Münchow: So it went so wrong. This band was then already Zoo Army?

Ofarim: no. I try to separate it somehow. I do not like when people  have a stereotyped thinking, but I have now partially own accepted. So for me there is a drawer called "Gil, the teen-Star. "That's what I did in 14 years until I was 19 or 20 years old. This was followed by a pause. I then my first record on their own produced and written everything myself, because I also do not label has said what I should sing. There is for me the drawer "Gil Ofarim". I thought the age of 20: "So now you are an adult and you can also call Ofarim."  This I have done for two years. After that, Hard Rock band Zoo Army, I was together with Tal I founded. Tal was not more of the bass in the background, but all four in the same band had much to say. We have

then made two or three years and brought an album Entitled "507" out. This was a great record and we have then then in three years played two or three tours with over 150 gigs. But after that I wanted to do something different. I come from the Rock music was always in my heart, but I just wanted something something else, something I had never done before. I was then the great good fortune for the animated film "Meet the Robinsons" of to be allowed to sing on the soundtrack of Disney, in the original English Rufus Wainwright, a great singer and artist who has sung. For his songs were so sought the German voice and an acquaintance

from me, the producer Ralf Weigand, called and asked if I could make. At first I thought, "Oh, I've never been to German sung, that's a bit affig and uncool. "It was the opposite the case: I went there, had sung the title and it has I really liked - so good in fact that I was six months later for a other Disney film sang a German song. Sometime I sat down with my best friend Oswin, with I for over 15 years, so during my teen

time to write music together. We planned to bring up something new, and started to write new songs. The idea came up to form a band. But I wanted to sing in German only when Oswin would also be in the band. He is a great guitarist and was earlier also my guitar teacher. Mitgehangen, caught together: Now we have

together the band "Acht". 

Münchow: "Acht" starting in August with a new record, although of course a CD.

Ofarim: The time the record is unfortunately over. 

Münchow: I have recently been a release of the band "The Prince" follows, who received a record on vinyl, because they say that the crackling and rattling actually entails. So here we have a brand new promotional copy of the new CD of "Acht". We want to briefly the title "Still" listen you sing in German. (The Song of

the CD recorded)

Münchow: You say that you are now also a songwriter and your own text Write

Ofarim: Yes.

Münchow: What are those issues? What awaits us in "Acht"? What does it for Gil Ofarim, who came from the English hard rock scene in the he "Zoo Army" was with his former band, with "Acht" now in German

to sing? 

Ofarim: I have also previously my texts, to which I attach great importance, always written himself. For me it's just important to set myself apart. I do not mean me as something better than any other musician represent. For God's sake! There are great songwriters, lyricists, Poet and musician. But for me it was important to create something of their own. I also had the feeling that in Germany, little emphasis on English

Texts was laid. That was just a song that you do not really understood. In "Acht" it was important to me that the lyrics are perfect, that they have a weight and are not 08/15-Texte. Such texts Namely, unfortunately, very often sung, although, as I said, also in Germany are great artists. I did it myself but not have expected, let alone write in German. A very good friend Oswin, fortunately, is a poet and writer and with her we have worked out the lyrics. I'm just proud and happy this to have these two songs co-written and play can.

Münchow: What makes German texts other than English? Her lyrics are of course different from that of Roland Kaiser, Udo Lindenberg, Herbert Grönemeyer or Marius Müller-Westernhagen. What is the appeal of your texts, what topics you have chosen and why?

Ofarim: I think that we have not chosen the texts, but they came - as stupid as it may sound - a sort of spiritual Way to us. It is about their own experiences, there are things you which one sees or imagines. The plate is indeed "Imagine". To us it was important to inform us lyrically no limits and no fixed To have policies. We just wanted to write about what you think or feels. It's not about, wanted a positive message convey, though it ultimately is already really like this: When talking about the box looks, it always goes any further. Who may know that better than my dad with all its ups and downs, the he's been through and who I've also seen some? One but has also done his own experiences and I believe that it always goes on, no matter what may happen. For example, if this in the studio dropped a lamp and breaks my leg, then the Leg just broken, but tomorrow it's still on. The only completely simple example. Represent this view of things, we were in any case important. In Germany there are great artists such as Herbert Grönemeyer, the mad Texts. His way of writing is just great. It was important that our texts are not too banal and that we can not explain exactly what it is. Not "I sitting here, the glass of water and take a sip "or" I just change me "or" I want to be different now. "We have the somewhat circumscribed. So we said, "I have changed my colors" instead of "I've changed." So I'm just happy that I could write such lyrics and could sing. 

Münchow: As for the Father Abi Ofarim comes clear with the success of the Son? Is there jealousy or competition? He supports you, he is to you a Art pioneer? How does the in-house Ofarim? 

Ofarim: There is not a competition with us. The contrary, it would it, you're there for each other and support him also, as far as it goes. But we do not always hold together our face into the camera and say "we are the Ofarim that Ofarim that Ofarim". If we are on a Events, we can not say to the photographer: "No. You must not make two pictures of us together!" In this Cases, yielding to the simple. But we try, as I said, to Disconnect: My father has his way, my brother Tal has his way I have my way. Yet however much we help one another. I knew of some events which my dad in his book has mentioned anything. Earlier - that is, before we children with music started - it has over us as "the children of Abi" written. When I started my own career as a musician had, it was said: "This is the father of Gil." Today my father is happy that it not more so, but there was a real competition between never us.

Münchow: Sometimes you come on together with your father. As your father to Example, in his book "Light and Shadow" went on tour, were certain cities also his sons with it, then the encores played. So they came up with the benefit of three Ofarim, jointly stage were.

Ofarim: Tal usually plays in the band of my father and supported him there, by singing the backing vocals or accompanied on the guitar. I do the rather rare, but of course I was on the last two Events that had my dad in Munich. There is this song from the movie "Midnight Cowboy" with the title "Everybody's Talkin ', which

was the first song he taught us little Steppkes. When today plays this song, which has already happened twice, then it itches as in the fingers that I'm running right away me on stage with him sing this song together. I do not know if that bothers him, but I do not think so. This is for the press, of course, a godsend, because

you can say: "Since we have the family back to a photo!" Why but it is not me, but rather to music together

making. We often make it at home or at my music because the us Music connects easily. 

Münchow: Is your father Abi Ofarim, a critic for you? He was, as I said, some years your manager. As it is, if the father of the same Manager?

Ofarim: This is difficult because you can not separate. If you go, then it is clear that this is now the manager. At that time I still usual with him, and when one is eventually returned home, then you can not just switch off and say, "Ok, now remain of Manager and the artist outside the door and we are at home dad and son. "That does not work so there is then just conflicts Discussions and disagreements. The manager sees to it

a certain way, whereas the artist sees it quite differently and vice versa, so there will be much Zoff. From a certain Age is also still to this cord clamping process. So I wanted to eventually move out of the home, did not understand what my father has. Dad is yes southerners and comes from Israel. Family is so family

and if it were to make, then it would be best that the grandchildren parents, grandparents and great-grandparents together in an apartment live. But that is unimaginable for me, I could not and I will that too. My father could not understand at the beginning. Positive but that for every action there is a reaction. So always creates something positive and it's all somehow on. If I did not go out and professional paths have separated, to work with other people and gain new experiences, then my dad would, I believe, not today again music making. He has almost 27 years, made pause, so actually throughout my life. But after I had moved out and professionally went his own way, my dad again making music started.

Münchow: It is also apparent from the biography of your father that he is, after They had come into the world, between diapers and career wanted or needed to decide. After his time with the famous duo Esther and Abi Ofarim he came back then back to number 1 in the German charts with his solo album, "Much Too Much". How was the for you as a son?

Ofarim: For me it is difficult to understand because it will be different for me probably will. Maybe I can also understand if I myself sometime Papa am. But was it really so that the plate the same year went to number one, where I was born. He had great deals on concert tours and television shows, the high Salaries were introduced and they then - according to my mother - also 've really needed. Dad wanted to, not because he preferred to Sitting at home, changing diapers and in the truest sense of the Word to piss off me. 

Münchow: (laughs) So you probably are also called "joy", because it is this Joy probably would not let taking. They are also common in Israel. Are Also a devout Jew?

Ofarim: I went to a Jewish school, speak Hebrew, and can Read Hebrew. Put it this way: I feel close to Judaism, but I really do not think too much of religion. I am a believer and believe that there is up there is a higher power and that there is a system but I do not believe in these religions, we know that. It is matter to which it is in each case, and also because I would not significant. So I think that there is someone up there, but I really think absolutely nothing of his deputies and his ground staff down here.

Münchow: do you do with your band "Acht" yes currently a restart. The texts are, as I said, different. Are you as a political person, place With politics in Germany apart, so that what is on the Happened road? Yes you mentioned previously that your texts on the pulse time progressed.

Ofarim: Yes, but we are not really political. I have a political opinion, but I will not reveal here, and I do not even other people press on any stamp. Lyrically we are in "Acht" is not "anti-" and always against it. I'm more of a man, is for something, and I think that it is now much more difficult to open To be able to say yes. Saying no is easy, but to say Yes much more difficult because that brings with it the consequence, this responsible, that is something. That is something that is very today Few people do. Our texts are indeed not my work Past, but they act but from what I made of it have. It's partly to experience the life of my Oswin bandmates, with whom I wrote the entire plate and have produced together with Corni Bartels in Munich. Probably says that every artist on his record coming out now, and he want to apply for, but personally for me it just has hand and foot and I'm just happy because I think it is the best thing I ever 've made. 

Münchow: I am now once again a little jump into acting. With What movie has actually started with you? As one has the Gil Ofarim young talent discovered? 

Ofarim: That was quite simple. It was this call from the casting agency asked if I could imagine it for a movie for Pro7 audition. It was about a teen comedy and it would actually Everything was right. I flew to Berlin to this casting had but no idea whether I can or not. I just had the lyrics learned by heart, what I really can not, I forget sometimes even my own lyrics on stage. I have been there so auditioned and played something, what has actually worked. I Although can not say of myself that I would have been great, so I could say: "I would like to thank the academy." But I was very satisfied, because I had done that, what was required of me

was. The people of the Agency were still excited and called a Week later with me, to tell me, "You got the part!" That was it and then I started with the actors.

Münchow: How is the movie called?

Ofarim: He was called "Endlich sex." It's about a girl who apparently their class is the only one who is still a virgin. These are but Reality all the other girls too, but it is clear that on the Schoolyard all others have bragged about her alleged experiences. The title is a little daunting, but the movie was cool. When he was sent, he had a very good audience. I knew myself so not out, but I do remember that the sender very enthusiastic was. Then it went on and I got several calls from various casting agencies, directors and producers. I was the great fortune to be able to turn "The storm surge" for RTL, a film in I had a really big role. This two-parter was one of the most expensive television productions that has ever existed in Germany,

and I thought to myself, "What are you doing here anyway You're standing next to idols? George, Heiner Lauterbach, Benno Fürmann and Nadja Uhl. Madness! How come you're into here "Then I gave myself the answer: "Ok, apparently you did something right. Make it so just the same as the last film and snap up what you want from the big Hollywood actors mitbekommst. "So I've imagined that I would be the guy from the script, and asked me how this feel and how he would react. That was all, and it has work. Nevertheless, I say: In Germany there are actors who can you really call it that and there are those who work hard that they can. I know exactly which group I belong: I 'm not set, solid actor in Germany, but perhaps will I that someday. I just do what I think is right, and otherwise it gives directions. 

Münchow: The filming of "The Flood" w ere indeed really hard, as I read have.

Ofarim: Oh yes.

Münchow: I shall say nothing, but simply tell you. It went into this film all about the storm surge of Hamburg in 1962. 

Ofarim: This was back in Hamburg really a very big tragedy. The dikes are broken. The weather bureau had indeed warned, but it has the simply paid no attention and thought, "Oh, that's already past. We have so often here in the north tower. "But it was actually a really hard storm. As it was always: Filming for as a movie you can not just make a paddling pool. Therefore, a proper city in the largest German outdoor swimming pool, in Food was built. So we are then in November up to seven hours been a day in freezing temperatures in the water. That was really harsh conditions, but we think of the goal and is not alone. With so a lot more people are turning so present as the Actor on camera: all other people on the set were also in the water and have just been afflicted. It was about the goal of a to make good movie. I had the great honor to receive this role, and so I thought, "Do your best and do not moan!" 

Münchow: Your father also writes in his book about a situation that I very funny place. The story, which is titled "charisma", describes him as a womanizer. What was it you did when you lived together and the women in your home each other's jack in the hand have given?

Ofarim: My father loves this story and told me they like to give me say, "You know, boy, so and so works das" When I was about 16 years old and was between my first two albums a few weeks off had I experienced this: I was in Munich and it was summer and Dad again began to assume that because he was not among people for years gone. The "Womanizer" as he calls himself, and how it also significant other, had again begun to exude the charm and came up really to the taste. One morning happened Next, I go into the kitchen, where a naked woman is. I say "Hello," go back to my room and think to myself: "Ok, that was now embarrassing. "Eventually, the wife leaves the house and my father comes out of the bedroom. Lunch comes another woman, he with the go away, and at night he comes back with yet another At home. This workload is already respectable! Eventually, I thought, I would have to ask him again how that is. My story is not as inflated as his, but I asked him, "Dad, how do you do that? You are not just the youngest and slimmest and you 're not a multi-millionaire. "He always tells me with great pride that he had told me: "Boy, do you know what is charisma?" I have him then laughed at, but I still do not know how he does it. He is now 72, but until today there is still so when I go to dinner with him in Munich or do something else, I go with him to a store and independently of women of all ages on their tables and say, "Abi, Schatzi!" and give him kisses.

Münchow: One last question at the end of the broadcast. How important to you is as Actually Israel Jew? Are your roots in this country or rather in Germany? They're often at your relatives in Israel. 

Ofarim: For German Jews, it's still a difficult situation. When one was born in Germany, then you are - even without reference to the Second World War - always "the Jew". It's just not a German. Me all this does not matter: I am German, I am a Jew, I am a believer and not a believer, I'm Israeli - it's just shit. I am a People just like everyone else. In Israel, I am but again the German, because I was not born there and was not in the military. Israel is but also important to me and my family lives there. I have many years spent my childhood there and love the country and the people. I love the women, the food and the beach. I also think that this Jews Country is our home for us. If you are in the story Looking back, one sees that Jews have always been persecuted or not were welcome. That is why Israel, a country that is smaller than Bavaria, now our home. It is for me, without in politics or religion think, my home, because I grew up there.

Münchow: At the end of our mission, we now listen to the track "Still" from the new CD of your band "Acht". The music is your true home. Thank you, that you were in my mission. (Gil Ofarim plays and sings the song "Still")

© Bayerischer Rundfunk

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Download the PDF copy of the German version of this interview at : http://www.br.de/fernsehen/br-alpha/sendungen/alpha-forum/gil-ofarim-gespraech100.html

Gil`s Latest Interview

Gil Ofarim (Photo: Iris Mauch)

I`m so glad Gil has shared the link to his latest interview in his fan page. He saved me a lot of effort. Anyway, this is another heart-touching interview for me. I don`t know why I always feel so sad whenever I read any of his interviews. Maybe it`s because of the many misconceptions and misunderstandings by the people towards him.

In this exclusive interview, he stressed, "Guys, I was never gone, I was always there - I mostly just stood in front of a closed door. " We know that since his appearance in The Voice of Germany, many articles have been written about him, and the general idea of all is his "COMEBACK". Comeback? Gil, was never gone. For those who stil didn`t know, he still continued his journey as a singer after his teenage years--being the short-haired Gil Ofarim. After that, he formed his rock band Zoo Army. Next to it, and up to the present, he is with Acht. So, when was the empty year? None. It`s just that, many people have not been following him since he left Bravo. And it`s not his job to tell you everything that`s happening to him to keep you updated. Well, I guess he just wanted a little privacy that time or just wanted to see who really cared for him.

In the last part of this interview, I felt so excited. He has so many plans for this year: more concerts, guesting and albums with Acht, English songs in a solo album, possible film-making, Zoo Army revival...and I hope everything goes well. I really wish him the best especially about his health.

Here`s the English Translation of the full interview:

Gil Ofarim in an exclusive interview: "I was never really gone!"

MUNICH / sz For two weeks, the second season of "The Voice of Germany" (TVoG) with the last concert of the tour of the eight finalists in the Olympic Hall history. A prominent "talent" of the show was the Munich musician and artist Gil Ofarim. In an interview with Iris Mauch he looks back on his experiences with this TV format, but especially ahead of planned performances, concerts and a lot of interesting projects.

SZ: It is the TVoG Tour has come to an end - how was it for you?

Ofarim: I had not even expected to participate at all - I moved shortly after for Freaky T., who had to cancel for health reasons. The samples were therefore very briefly - but the show was huge and it was fun. It was a very nice tour, which has also given me the opportunity to say goodbye to the whole. There really are some people who are unfortunately not shown on television, in my opinion, but the most important people such as the Vocal Coach Yvonne Ambree and Naomi van Dooren.

SZ: constantly during the show, was the image of the "teen stars" tried, you were pushed into the corner comeback. Here you have done all these years music - away from the teen image. How much bothers or annoys you mind that such creative phases musical creation are virtually "swept under the rug" and acted as if between the "teen idol Gil" and "TVoG-Gil" was a vacuum?

Ofarim: Of course, it has stressed me somewhere and annoyed, but that's part. It's not my job to change the opinion of someone or to please come hell. I think I may just with my performance - with what I can, and as the person I am - to show what I am doing today.

SZ: How did the collaboration with Xavier Naidoo and his team - you will continue to cooperate in any way or is it completely finished?

Ofarim: The collaboration was easy. Xavier is a very busy man, but has a great team behind him, and the challenge to all talent in the team was: ". Stands the door you always open" How that happens then, you do not know ... It was just a great time.

SZ: Who was responsible for the song selection?

Ofarim: I do not.

SZ: So ... you stood not 100% behind it?

Ofarim: That's not true. I have told me one thing: "When I go to this TV show, then I do it all or nothing." That is, I realized that I can not make any claims - so I'm not too. I did not say yes and amen to everything, and I was one among many and made the best of it.

SZ: How much influence could you take on the songs that you have sung ultimately how they line up, etc.?

Ofarim: Before the Blind Auditions there along with four or five people a kind of pitching ideas. Since there were three proposals for me. We soon found out that would not work. I developed the Gnarls-Barkley song "Crazy" sung in this acoustic version, and that's it.

Although I generally difficult to find covers, because I write my own songs because they inevitably will be compared with the original, actually, every song was a hit. You can see that based on the video, as did I, I think a couple of records in the calls: my "Are you with me" and also the Battle of Eight. In any case - it all was ok - then the song selection can not have been that bad.

SZ: What is the goal you've been following with your participation and have you achieved it?

Ofarim: It was difficult for me to go to a talent show. But I personally had already win the claim.Xavier has asked all of us at the beginning: "Which one of you wants to win," When no one answered, I said that I want to win, because I know that what I do is my life and I for the rest of my wants to make life. Also, I was once elite athletes [Note the editor: Gil wanted to be a professional tennis player] , so winning is inside me. But winning is not necessarily to make the first place.Previously fly out would not have been nice. As it was, it was perfect - it could not have gone better.

I personally wish that I would the size of this platform that the show has commanded me, so have one for my own music. If I could make it, or if the media landscape allows it, I would be very, very happy and thankful. I had a very long time not so much radio airplay and interviews like the last six months. I got a lot of positive response, I was told, "You're great, you're great, that of Germany, which we had not expected, where have you been all these years?" This I can say: "Guys, I was never gone, I was always there - I mostly just stood in front of a closed door "

Before I went to TVoG I wished that the right thing happens. But it happened anyway. If you're a bit of free spirit, a little look outside the box, you know, it happens anyway. And so it happened ...

SZ: What should happen in 2013 anyway?

Ofarim: The right thing! - Private I hope in any case once that remain my friend and I and the dogs are healthy, that we find the home that we desire. The home is for me like the battery for everything else that comes uttered them.

Professionally, I have so much before ... I want to play with my band EIGHT much live. We want as many appointments as possible fulfill so many summer festivals as possible. There is quite a bit in planning - already fixed a gig at Munich's new Club Strøm is on 23 February.

I would like to make an album with EIGHT. We already have some very good strong songs, it now follow more. I'm the second-EIGHT album closer than my solo album.

Yes, I want this year also write a solo album, "Gil Ofarim" and bring out when it works well - it will be in English. Again, for me, that I do not just want to do something in a hurry, even though many - marketing strategists, managers, record company people - say that I do a solo album now put out immediately, should now take the shaft before a nine months the new season comes.

I also ZOO ARMY again revived - we have already had a couple of rehearsals, have found a very good drummer. It's great fun and I think that if this continues, we will continue with ZOO ARMY soon here and there to play a few secret gigs.

SZ: That's a lot! Do not you think that that is a bit too much maybe, because it are very different things yet?

Ofarim: I think that's the attraction. I would not like to eat roast pork every day. That's the great thing about EIGHT, that it is so diverse, and musically. But I want to make lots of other things. If all goes well, I would like to mid even make a film. I have now to a few talks in Berlin. However, there are five other candidates for the male lead, the turn much more in Germany and many more prices than I have cleared.

I'm just artists - that's what I do. I could probably do other things, but that would not satisfy me. On the TVoG tour, I realized that I could not show in the show so really what I'm doing what I'm made. I believe that when you see me live on stage, you know, who am I and why am I doing this and why I should stay here. It all comes at the right time.

The next opportunity to Gil Ofarim and his band to see live EIGHT:

Saturday 23, February 2013 in Strøm

Lindwurmstrasse 88, 80337 Munich

Inlet: 20 Clock / Clock beginning 21

Tickets via München Ticket:

http://www.muenchenticket.de/guide/tickets/nyaq/Acht.html

Source: http://www.schwaebische.de/journal/kultur/musik_artikel,-Gil-Ofarim-im-Exklusivinterview-%E2%80%9CIch-war-nie-wirklich-weg%E2%80%9C-_arid,5382980.html

Principles and Lessons I`ve Learned from Gil`s Life

Looking at this picture, several words will automatically come to our mind: cute, handsome, angelic, sexy, beautiful, gorgeous, dream guy. Who would have never fallen for this young man during the 90`s? Almost every girl, if not all, dreamt of him in their sleepless nights. A lot of them went and, even until now, still go crazy about him. Angelic face, tantalizing eyes, kissable lips, beautiful voice, very talented, sporty, funny and humble. What else can you ask for from a Gil Ofarim?

Have you ever come to this point?

Define handsome: Gil Ofarim

Define great singer: Gil Ofarim

Define talented: Gil Ofarim

Who`s your dream guy: Gil Ofarim

What is your dream guy: Gil Ofarim

If you have, then there`s no denying at all. You were/are a certified Gil Ofarim addict!

But more than his looks and talent, there is another interesting about Gil. It`s his life story: how he was during his "teenage pop idol" years; after he left BMG, went on his own and formed Zoo Army; living a new life with his new band, Acht; and even during and after his journey in The Voice of Germany.

And what make me admire him so much are the principles he lived by and the lessons I`ve learned from him and his life:

1. Pleasing others ain`t no fun at all.

Gil seemed to be perfect in many ways, but not really his life. His career as a teenage superstar only lasted for 5 years. The first 2 years was great and very overwhelming for him. But why he chose to end it so soon it`s because he wasn`t happy anymore.

"For months I had every day in a different city. I was broken, but I had to keep going. At 17, I was completely burned out, only a robot that had to work," said Gil recalled in an interview with the Cologne Express.

Gil was happy making other people happy. But later on, he realized that he almost never left something for himself and was left out. He never had the chance to be with his friends and enjoy his teenage life. Aside from that, some of his songs that he wrote were not accepted by the company and he had to sing only whatever they gave him, some of which he couldn`t even relate. That was no fun at all.

"roughly mistreated, he made no protest

remained silent, anger in his chest

got nothing to live for, they don´t

understand nothing" - Never, Zoo Army

Thinking about what he`s been missing, he felt so alone and sad. 

"I just wanna talk to you

Where are my friends tonight
I'm feeling so blue" -Talk To You, Gil

2. Live your life the way you want it to be

At 21, Gil decided to step out of the teenage idol image to do things on his own--the way he wanted his life to be. Although he never left his passion for singing, we can say he`s really grown up after that. His talent for songwriting has become more evident. He proved everyone that he didn`t need any professional songwriters because he himself was and still is a great one.

"Going my way - I don't need to justify
Doing what I want - no alibis 
Living my life in the way I want it to be 
The way I want it" -- My Way, Gil

In 2005, he broke up with his father, his manager, and formed a band with Tal, his brother,  which is Zoo Army. He loved rock and he dreamed of it for so long. That time, he really had his chance and was very happy to express himself through his songs. He didn`t care if many couldn`t appreciate them, but it turned out he gathered even more fans-old and new. That was really a fulfillment for him.

"taking my live into my own hands

living my dreams and taking the chance
walking my talk and making romance
living my live today" --I`m Alive, Zoo Army)

3. If you can imagine it, you can do it.

Zoo Army wasn`t able to release another album because the label companies didn`t accept his songs. Also, his band mates had to go somewhere else, so they had no choice but to break up. The band was no more and he had to start a new life again. Despite all these, he never quit his dream of singing his own songs and performing on stage again. Music has been his life. Until there was Oswin who`s been his bestfriend and his partner in songwriting. Later, they formed a new band together.

Stell dir vor! Imagine. That`s the title of the album of his current band, Acht. And that is also what the album and the band is all about. What one can do depends on his imagination. Similarly, he believes that there is no limit in imaginations. 

"Stell dir vor, daß nichts ist wie es bleibt 

Imagine that nothing is as it remains

Stell dir vor, daß alles bunter ist als du es treibst.

Imagine that everything is more colorful than you drift.

Stell dir vor, daß wir alles sind und nichts brauchen

Imagine that we have everything and need nothing

Stell dir vor, daß uns egal ist ob kluge Köpfe rauchen.

Imagine that we do not care if smoking masterminds.

Stell dir vor, daß du zu alt bist um jung zu sterben

Imagine that you're too old to die young

Stell dir vor, daß Ablaufdaten nie mehr gültig werden.

Imagine that expiration dates are valid any more.

Wenn deineVorstellung beginnt

If your imagination begins

In einer Zeit wo alles stimmt

In an era where everything is right

Dein Vorhang aufgeht wenn du fällst

Your curtain goes up when you fall

Und dir das noch alles gefällt

And you like it or anything

Stell's dir vor

Imagine's in front" --Stell Dir Vor, Acht 

Forming Acht was both risky and exciting. Although they`re a mixture of love and inspirational themes, he wasn`t sure if people will like it. Genre is mostly rock although like Zoo Army, there are also a mix of sentimental ones. 

First time to have a German rock band, which songs are pure German, Gil  conquered the uncertainty and once again, showed up on stage with three comrades. Surprisingly, it turned out that many people liked it even if it`s their first time to hear their songs. In an interview about their tour as opening act for Alex Band, Gil said he didn`t expect the reactions of the people to be very positive towards them. They(the audience) even commented that they liked them better than the main act and was craving for more, but unfortunately, they only had limited time.

"The people have entered our super harder line. Even demanded encores. Reamonn the people were full of praise," says Oswin.
"But the sold-out opening concert at Munich's Backstage were fabulous. The audience did not even know the song, " added Gil.

Acht was a total fulfillment for him as they have created almost everything on their own. Self-written, self-composed, self-arranged, self-prepared. No hassle. No stress. They were very relaxed and happy the way he imagined himself to be.

"We already work completely independently. Decide for yourself and everything will choose the people with whom we want to creatively make a difference," underlines Oswin.

4. If you want to prove something, do it for yourself not for others.

Everybody was surprised to see him auditioned on a talent show, The Voice of Germany. News about him flooded the internet in different context but with the same content: The Comeback. There were many speculations as of why he had to do it when in fact he`s been at the top. One of which really made me angry was that he wanted to prove once again to everyone how great he is. But the truth is Gil just did it for himself and not for anybody else. 

I was a teenager, you have no idea what is actually happening around you. I could then also a very important word not say that was the word 'no'. I wanted to please everyone. But today I know that I do not need. I make myself not because of some crazy things, such as when something negative is said about me. I stand with both feet on the ground, I am at peace with myself.

He`s been at the top, yes, and been living with extremes. But he realized something was wrong. He wanted to make a change and start cleaning his life, doing things right for himself. He didn`t have to prove anything to others as he has done it a long time ago and the real proof of how great an artist he is is no other than himself. 

5. Everybody deserves another chance

Many people didn`t appreciate him after he left his teen idol image. His fans have left him and didn`t support him anymore. 

"Where are the friends that used to call me?
Where are the friends i used to know?
The clock moves fast
But i´m too wasted
I feel released, but jet so old" - Broken, Zoo Army

However, he proved to us that he didn`t even the least bit regret his decision. I admire him for taking the courage to stand up for what he believed was right and what made him happy. Gil`s life may have been messed up in the past, but at least he took the chance to clean it it up.

"I'm Gonna Make A Change,
For Once In My Life
It's Gonna Feel Real Good,
Gonna Make A Difference
Gonna Make It Right . . ." Man in The Mirror, Michael Jackson (Gil sang it in the fourth Live Show)

Everybody deserves another chance. It should not only be second chance but as many as possible that`s worth him. People do have mistakes. Some have gone to the wrong way or have chosen it. But the most important thing is we realized our mistakes and take action into making things right. 

"And I don't want the world to see me'Cause I don't think that they'd understandWhen everything's made to be brokenI just want you to know who I am" -- Iris, Go Go Dolls (Gil sang it in the 2nd Live Show)

We may have been still dreaming of that long-haired boy, but let`s learn to appreciate the man he becomes. He may have changed a lot but he is the same guy we once knew about, once dreamed of and once loved. Everybody deserves another chance...to be appreciated...to be accepted...to be loved...and to be happy...for who and what he is!

"Happiness is a choice." - Gil

Interview with Gil Ofarim...Again

I noticed myself these past few weeks, I was starting to change my lifestyle. Before, when I`m bored, my regular hobbies were only writing stories, playing guitar and composing songs. Now, there`s new: Stalking Gil. Nyahaha.

Since there`s nothing new to him and his band as of the moment (that`s because he`s preparing a big surprise for us), it has become my habit to read about his past life...unconciously, to catch up what I missed in the past twenty years of his existence. Honestly, I really want to know him more. I don`t know but I`m just so interested in him. 

The best way to know a person more is to interview him. Knowing Gil as an honest man, I`m sure everything that he said and every answer to the interviewer`s questions were all true. So, here is another interview that I  found in the internet. I really enjoyed it myself. I hope you enjoy it, too. 

A few weeks ago we asked you to send us questions for Gil Ofarim ("Zoo Army"). Meanwhile, Gil answered the questions.What he has to say about the upcoming album in March, "507", what are his plans for the future, what his friends say about his career and what his dream alongside the success with the band, etc., you can now interview read.
Hello Gil, in March is your album "507" on the market. Are there any songs on it that you are particularly close to your heart?
Each song is a part of me. They mean a lot.
As the studio was the album?
Very hard, but it was worth it!!
How did you get the title of "507"?
The studio was also so the number and somehow fits to us .. shit white, either!! J
In which countries the album is released anywhere?
First in Germany, Austria and Switzerland but Zoo Army is an international issue.
You used to be a solo artist. How did it happen that you're now a member of the band "Zoo Army" are?
It was time to do something new. And although you have a band at the same time more "cooks", I still feel very comfortable. It's the right thing!
Where do you see the advantages, disadvantages where the member to be in a band?
As I said more "cooks" but for us it is very simple ... together ....
How would you describe your music and your music style out?
Oh no! Drawer! No idea! Moment ... Guitar ... Bass ... Drums ... uh .. Rock?
Your fans can already pre-listen to the new album?
Sure! On our homepage www.zooarmy.de people can hear 2 songs ("change", "tell me something").
Do you write the songs yourself? If so, where do you get the inspiration for it?
From the Life!
Which producer or with which artist would you love to work with?

Brendan O 'Brian is my favorite candidate for a plate!
What is your target audience, what age would like to address with your music?
Everyone who loves rock!!!
What does it mean for you to sing and to make music?
It's my life! My destiny, my everything!!
Do you have idols? Who are your musical heroes?
No idols, but there are many bands that I admire, such as Led Zeppelin, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Metallica, ...
Will you often compared to your father?
Yes.
What kind of music do you like best privately?
Rock, Metal,
Would you songs covers to be successful?
No .........!
Please describe each of the other band members in a set.
Valley: the best that the world has seen ever!
Dominik: the best that the world has seen ever!
Roland: the best that the world has seen ever!
What has been your most embarrassing, what your most beautiful theatrical experience?
The best part was determined: the opening act for Bon Jovi in the Olympic Stadium!
Embarrassing? Nothing!
Do you have any rituals before you go on stage?
The band turns in a circle, and summon the gods of rock!
What are you doing for stage fright or are there not more already?
Use the stage fright and put in it a positive!
How did you get the name "ZOO ARMY"?
It was the first name that came and everyone knew immediately that it is!
What draws you specifically made as a band, what differentiates you from other artists?
You have to experience us live!! That's what we do best!
Do you have friends who are also active in show business?
Yes!
What would you do if you were not making music?
Nothing!
Would you support teens who want to make rock music?
But wait! In any case! Long Live Rock!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
THANK YOU YANKEE STADIUM! SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!!!
What has been the craziest thing a fan has done for you?
We have very good fans! On tour they travel almost anywhere to see us! Or crass?
What is your biggest dream in addition to the success of the band?
Family with all the trimmings. Women, children! Everything stop. Which headline would you like once you read about in the newspaper?


LAST NIGHT! ZOO ARMY ROCKED THE YANKEE STADIUM!!! What do your friends and acquaintances say in your career?


They support me a lot!
How important is your family? Who are the key people in your life?
FATHER, BROTHER!!
What is with you at home in the fridge?
Oh, not much! Since I live alone again I buy to eat is not necessarily much. Single life halt.
You've been acting too many times. Do you see yourself more as an actor or singer?
BOTH? Does that count too?
If you had three wishes, what would they be?
1.YANKEE STADIUM.2. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE ACADEMY! AND STILL THREE WISHES! Do you have any vices, from which you can not leave? If so, what?


I gave up smoking! Almost a year already without tipping!!
How long does your morning in the bathroom with all the trimmings?
10 min.
Are you single?
Jup. Although shit at Christmas but in the spring quite ok J What question you wanted to always get asked?


?? Do not know?
Are there any issues that annoy you?
"You got a girlfriend?"
What do you do in your free time?
Do not be! Otherwise, I play my guitar!
Do you have a favorite movie?
The Godfather 1,2,3
Do you have pets, if so what?
My Bulldog CALLAS!!
Do you have any lucky charms?
A chain which I always wear.

BRAINSTORMING: What comes spontaneously to the following terms?

Music: YEAH BABY!!
friendship: there's the?
love hurts!
Religion:   /
success:   watch
envy:   that's why!


What three things would you take with you to a desert island?
Sunscreen, sunglasses and perhaps a boat down at home again.

Is she on tour soon? If so, you will also be concerts in Austria and Switzerland, giving, etc.?
I hope so! After all, there are many rock fans and especially ZOOARMY FANS!!

What are your plans for the near future?
Tours and much simple play live!

Would you tell your fans something?
THANK YOU THAT YOU ARE!!

Thank you for the interview.

Thank you, too.

Interview: Stefanie Christe
source photos: Brooke-Lynn Promotion

Source: http://www.events-und-trends.de/data/interview_mit_gil_ofarim.html

Zoo Army: A Short Review

I don`t really appreciate rock songs because it`s so noisy and irritating. When I`ve read that Gil had a rock band (before Acht), Zoo Army, I was kinda not really interested and phased out. I never listened to any of their songs...not until I got hooked into him since his appearance in The Voice of Germany. That`s when I gave Zoo Army`s songs a try. Surprisingly, I liked most of them especially the solemn ones like Feel and Fading. 

Their carrier song which is I`m Alive really rocked! I mean, it really got into me. 

Although it`s a rock band (note that my connotation of rock is "noisy"), only two or three songs are so noisy or what they call, heavy metal. The rest of the songs have a great blend of heart-touching lyrics and beautiful melody in a rock way. 

I`m glad I only listened to their songs after I learned Gil`s real life story. When I listen to any of them, I kind of interpret the lyrics and depict every word to his life. That way, I come to appreciate his songs. It`s his way of expressing himself. He`s really a great artist, not to mention most of the songs he composed them himself. Only few artists can put their life into a song and capture its listeners` ears straight to their hearts.

It`s just so sad that they were rejected by several recording companies and had to break their band (because of some personal reasons). Maybe if they had been given the chance to make a new album and his band mates didn`t have to go somewhere else, they can produce even more inspirational rock songs!

However, Gil`s new band, Acht, is currently gaining popularity not only in Germany but all parts of the world although we can`t compare which band is better. Acht is a far way different from Zoo Army.