Comedy Showcase: The Smothers Brothers Play Hava Nagila (After a Long Introduction)

The Smothers Brothers, Tom and Dick, performed Hava Nagila on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour during the first season in 1967. You'll enjoy their version, but only if you have the patience to sit through a long and rambling five minute introduction.

"Hava Nagila" is a well-known Jewish folk song. Its Hebrew lyrics, meaning "Let us rejoice," were added by Abraham Zevi Idelsohn in early 20th-century Jerusalem and were inspired by the Psalms. The song quickly became a staple at Jewish celebrations like weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs, spreading globally as an anthem of joy and Jewish identity. 

The Smothers Brothers, Tom and Dick, were one of the most iconic comedy duos in the history of television. They began performing as a duo in the late 1950s, playing in coffeehouses and clubs in San Francisco. Their act consisted of music, comedy, and witty banter, which quickly gained them a following. The Smothers Brothers became a household name in the late 1960s with their variety show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. The show was groundbreaking in its approach to comedy, pushing the boundaries with political satire and social commentary. 

The show also featured up-and-coming musical acts, including The Doors and The Who, and introduced the world to comedians like Steve Martin and George Carlin. The Smothers Brothers' irreverent style made them a beloved and enduring force in American comedy. 

Enjoy!