Here are some of the Hebrew songs I’ve translated into singable English lyrics.  Rather than do an exact translation, I try to capture the essence of the song and make sure the words fit the melody. You can send a message on the Contact Karen page if you have comments on these translations!

Erev Shel Shoshanim

Roses are everywhere

Their scent fills the evening air

Night turns to dawn and then the dove

Sings us a song of love.

Oh, how the soft wind blows

Over the morning dew.

I’ll whisper a song that’s in my heart,

A love song that’s just for you.

Lach Yerushalayim

All for you, Jerusalem,

We lift your name in song.

All for you, Jerusalem,

Fortress great and strong.

In our spirits, in our hearts, is a place you’ll always fill.

Jerusalem, a brand new light

Shines upon the hill.

Utsu Eytsa

What tomorrow brings we cannot say

Try to make the most of every day

Even with the best plans

The future’s not in our hands

God is the One who leads the way.

Y’varech’cha Hashem Mi Tzion

From the hills of Zion, may Hashem bless all of you

May you see Jerusalem shine bright

From the hills of Zion, may Hashem bless all of you

All the days, the days of your life.

May your children and their children too

See peace over all of Israel

May your children and your children’s children

Live in peace o’er all of Israel.

Avinu Malkeinu

(traditional): Our Father, Our Sovereign, Our King (new): Creator of all living things

Oh please hear the prayers that we bring

We call out to You, for without You, we know that we would have nothing.

Be grateful unto us, with charity and love

And give to us your lovingkindness

Save and shelter us.

Mi Ha’ish

Who is the person

Who loves life above all else

Will choose to spend a lifetime

In pursuit of righteousness

Oh, turn away from evil, don’t be deceitful, and do not speak ill

Go after what is peaceful, and see the good in everything.