On his latest single, “What Is Love,” released ahead of his upcoming album, Gideon Unna invites listeners into a heartfelt conversation about the power of love in a time overshadowed by conflict and division. This is his second collaboration with the talented Kaley Halperin, and together, they craft a soulful and emotionally grounded track that feels both intimate and universal.
From the opening chords, the song blends acoustic warmth with modern production, creating a delicate yet steady pulse that carries the listener through its reflective narrative. Unna’s acoustic guitar and bass playing anchor the track with organic authenticity, while Kaley’s vocals—clear, emotive, and deeply expressive—add a layer of softness and grace. The chemistry between their voices makes the question posed in the title feel deeply personal: What is love?
Musically, the production is rich but not overwhelming. Yotam Botner’s drumming lays down a gentle rhythmic foundation, while Yoav Asif’s keyboards add subtle layers of warmth. Oren Tzur’s violin and string arrangement lift the song to an almost cinematic level, giving it a sense of timelessness. Under the skilled mixing and mastering of Yoram Vazan—whose New York studio work has supported many great artists—the track achieves a polished yet heartfelt sound that never loses its human touch.
Lyrically, “What Is Love” draws from both personal and global pain. Gideon Unna wrote the song in response to war and violence, particularly the tragic events happening in Israel. It’s a song born from grief, but not defined by it; instead, it pushes toward hope, urging the world to choose love over hate. He cites inspiration from the peace-driven messages of George Harrison, and that influence is easy to hear. Like Harrison, Unna uses music as a vessel for both spiritual reflection and quiet resistance.
The recording process itself mirrored the song’s message of connection. Captured in small studios in a scenic part of Israel, the sessions emphasized creative freedom. Unna encouraged his collaborators to bring their own voice to the music, and the result is a piece that feels collaborative and deeply human. Every instrumental contribution—from the subtle keyboard textures to the flowing strings—feels intentional, serving the heart of the song rather than overshadowing it.
“What Is Love” stands out because of its timing and honesty. In an era marked by division, its simplicity and sincerity resonate powerfully. It doesn’t preach; it reflects, it questions, and it gently reminds us of something essential. Kaley Halperin’s vocal delivery heightens this impact—she doesn’t just sing the words, she inhabits them, giving the song a layered emotional depth.
For Gideon Unna, who is known for weaving Israeli music, Jewish spirituality, and timeless melodies into his work, this single feels like a natural evolution. It blends tradition with modern sounds while staying true to his mission: to spread love and human connection through music.
As he prepares to perform more and share his upcoming album, “What Is Love” stands as a meaningful milestone—a quiet yet powerful anthem for peace. It’s a reminder that in times of darkness, asking the right question can be just as important as having the answer. And in this case, that question is simple, profound, and beautifully sung: What is love?
Connect with Gideon unna on