Teapacks

Teapacks is a pop and rock band from Israel, originally formed in Sderot in 1988. The group was founded by singer and songwriter Kobi Oz, who had previously performed with the Moroccan-influenced band Sfatayim. Teapacks became known for blending pop, rock, hip hop, and traditional Middle Eastern sounds.

The band was originally called Tipex, named after a correction fluid brand. The name was later changed to Teapacks to avoid copyright issues and as a symbolic reference to “erasing” cultural differences.

Teapacks became one of Israel’s most popular bands in the 1990s. Their songs often mixed humor with social and political commentary. They released their debut album in 1992 and gained widespread popularity with hits throughout the decade. Their 1995 album Hachaim Shelcha Balahaka (Your Life in the Band) was a major commercial success.

In 2007, Teapacks represented Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki with the song Push the Button, a political satire about the threat of war and nuclear weapons. The song featured a mix of musical styles and sparked controversy due to its subject matter. The band did not qualify for the final.

Teapacks disbanded in 2009. Kobi Oz launched a solo career and released several albums. The band reunited in 2013 and resumed performing. In 2016, they released the album Avodat Kapayim. From 2019 onward, they shifted focus to releasing singles, including “#BBBBB” in 2019 and “Dachlilim” in 2020—a song written during their earlier reunion period.

Following the events of October 7, 2023, Teapacks toured Israel, performing for refugees and soldiers. They released a new album, Shawarma Beach, on 20 September 2024. The album included 11 tracks, among them Croque Madame Croque Monsieur, which had been previously featured on their 2007 Eurovision promo CD.

In May 2023, Teapacks performed in Vancouver, Canada, during the Israel @ 75 celebrations.

Teapacks remains a significant name in Israeli music history, known for their cultural fusion, witty lyrics, and distinct voice in both local and international music scenes.