Wellness Meets Techno: Oshri Cohen’s Plan to Take His Israeli Party Movement Global
Israeli actor-DJ Oshri Cohen expands his successful Harmonize brand globally, combining electronic music with wellness practices while navigating Israel's changing nightlife scene.
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Oshri Cohen, the Israeli actor-turned-DJ and founder of the music-wellness brand Harmonize, returned from a successful U.S. tour. Recently relocated to Los Angeles, Cohen has played shows across New York, Miami, Houston and LA. Comparing audiences, he notes a cultural gap:
“Israeli crowds want victories, big breaks and heavy drops. Americans are more patient, more about stopping time. I like that.”
A Shifting Scene in Wartime Israel
Since the war began, Israel’s nightlife industry has been forced into isolation. With international DJs absent, local artists have taken center stage and fees have skyrocketed, in some cases doubling. Critics say Israeli DJs are exploiting the moment. Cohen disagrees.
“I don’t think it’s exploitation. Raising prices is fine,” he says. “An artist who’s been working five or ten years can’t charge the same forever. If they’ve developed, sat in the studio, created music, why shouldn’t they earn more? If I can pay, I will. If not, I’ll book someone else. That’s how it should work.”
He argues the shift should be celebrated:
“The status of Israeli artists has always been low. Now, when there are no foreign DJs and $50,000 is available, why not give it to Israelis? Crowds come in huge numbers to hear local electronic music. Why keep pushing these artists aside?”
Building Harmonize: From Vision to Movement
Cohen’s Harmonize brand has grown into one of Israel’s most successful party movements, blending electronic music with wellness practices like meditation and yoga.
“At first people thought it was crazy,” he recalls. “Parties are associated with alcohol, drugs and chaos. We asked, why not connect that energy with something healthier? It worked so well it became a new movement.”
Now, Cohen says, the model is expanding:
“We’re working on Harmonize in the U.S., and talking about Ibiza too. The goal isn’t just to grow, but to nurture the community. It’s culture, not just parties. I believe it brings light, especially in times like these.”
Between Two Careers
Parallel to his rise as a DJ, Cohen continues to act, write and direct. Balancing both worlds is a challenge.
“It’s not easy. Other DJs are in the studio every day. I also have film projects. But I remind myself that everything happens in its time. Even if it takes longer, the journey matters.”
Despite moments of doubt, Cohen insists he won’t abandon either path.
“Sometimes there’s that inner voice telling you to quit one. I ignore it. It comes from fear. I believe there’s enough time for everything. Hundreds come to hear my music today, whether it took me 15 years or two doesn’t matter. The long road can be more interesting.”