Eight new videos for eight nights of Hanukkah

I have been a casual observer and critic of Jewish holiday songs and parody videos for at least ten years, and I can't remember the last time that non-Jews have played such a prominent role. Two of this year's top eight were made by stars from the Broadway musical Hamilton, and one of my favorite rock bands from the 90's is on the list as well. Whatever the reason, here are my picks for this year's best new offerings. 

The Maccabeats get most of the credit for the whole genre of holiday parodies. Their 2010 hit Candlelight, which parodied Taio Cruz's "Dynamite," is still arguably the best Chanukah video ever on Youtube. This year, the a cappela group's Hanukkah entry, Candlelight 2020, is based on a new "Dynamite," by K-POP sensation BTS. But the similarity ends there: The two songs sound nothing alike. 

Legendary rock band The Foo Fighters decided to get in on the action this year. Greg Kurstin, who is Jewish, teamed up with Dave Grohl, who isn't, for eight covers of songs by bands with Jewish members, one per day. So far, they've done the Beastie Boys, Drake, Bob Dylan, and others. It's not exactly music for your family Hanukkah party, but it rocks. Watch them all here.

Also releasing one video per day is Israel's symphony orchestra, performing eight nights of traditional holiday tunes you recognize. You can watch them all here.