In their hit song, “All Star,” the American pop rock band Smash Mouth sang, “Only shooting stars break the mold.” They have broken the mold when it comes to stars boycotting Israel, because they just made a surprise appearance at one of Tel Aviv’s top clubs – Barby – on Monday night.
The group, also known for their cover of The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer,” which was on the Shrek soundtrack, took part in the venue’s secret concert series, Cat in the Bag, in which performers’ identities are kept under wraps. They are set to perform again on Wednesday night.
The band’s other songs include “Walkin’ on the Sun,” which was featured in Mystery Men starring Ben Stiller, and “Then the Morning Comes,” which played in the 2001 racing comedy Rat Race.
Smash Mouth, from San Jose, California, was formed in 1994 and was led by singer Steve Harwell. In 2021, Harwell stepped down and was replaced by Jewish vocalist Zach Goode. About two years later, Harwell died at age 56 from liver failure.
Smash Mouth lead singer vocally supports Israel
Goode has been a vocal supporter of Israel for years.
Sean Hurwitz, the band's guitarist, was born to American parents in Israel and grew up in the US. He writes on his website, "I found my love for music at a very young age, through my exposure to Israeli artists such as Gidi Gov and Mashina and British artists such as Eric Clapton and Pink Floyd."
The band posted a clip on Instagram from the Tel Aviv show, writing, “Go for the Moon World Tour 2026.” Earlier in the week, it also wrote, “A secret show overseas! But where is it??? It’s a secret! The Believer Breakdown!”