The annual Singing Independence event at the President’s Residence featured soldiers and politicians doing their best renditions of Israeli icon Arik Einstein, who died in November at age 74.

Longtime reality singing competition host Tzvika Hadar hosted the event, humorously addressing an audience of dignitaries which included IDF Chief of General Staff Maj.-Gen. Benny Gantz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Peres — with a little help from Iranian-born diva Rita — then led the troops in a rendition of Uf Gozal, one of Einstein’s most popular songs, or “Fly Little Bird.”