Remembering Tzruya “Suki” Lahav: The Violinist Behind Bruce Springsteen's Early Sound

Tzruya “Suki” Lahav, an Israeli violinist and songwriter, passed away on April 1, 2026, at the age of 74 in Jerusalem after a battle with cancer. She is best known for her contributions to Bruce Springsteen's early music, particularly her haunting violin intro on the iconic track "Jungleland," which is featured on the "Born to Run" album. Lahav's tenure with the E Street Band lasted from October 1974 to March 1975, during which she performed in 38 concerts and contributed to several tracks from Springsteen's first two albums.

Original Bruce Springsteen Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74E Street Band Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74Variety MagazineRolling StoneFormer E Street Band Member, Suki Lahav, Violinist on ‘Jungleland,’ Dies

Lahav first connected with Springsteen in 1972 when her husband, Louis Lahav, worked as a sound engineer on "Greetings From Asbury Park." She became a member of the E Street Band after Springsteen sought a violinist following the departure of key band members. Her first performance with the band was at Avery Fisher Hall in New York City on October 4, 1974. During her time with the band, she also provided uncredited vocals on tracks such as "4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)" and "Incident on 57th Street."

E Street Band Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74Rolling StoneVariety MagazineOriginal Bruce Springsteen Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74Former E Street Band Member, Suki Lahav, Violinist on ‘Jungleland,’ Dies

Lahav's violin work was integral to the sound of Springsteen's early albums. Her contributions included not only the memorable intro to "Jungleland" but also a notable rendition of Bob Dylan's "I Want You," which became a fan favorite. Despite her brief time with the band, her influence on Springsteen's music was significant, helping to establish his reputation as a rising star in the 1970s.

E Street Band Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74

Following her passing, her son, Yonatan Lahav, shared a heartfelt tribute, describing her as “an exceptional woman, intelligent, with a pure heart and full of love for life.” He emphasized that her songs “touched the hearts of so many.” In a 2007 interview, Lahav reflected on her time with Springsteen, stating, “The music was incredible. The lyrics were so rich; some of the most beautiful lyrics didn't ever make it onto record.”

Rolling Stone

While some narratives suggested a romantic involvement between Lahav and Springsteen, she dismissed such claims as “old wives’ tales.” In her own words, she emphasized the professional nature of their collaboration, stating, “What I took from him was the understanding that when you write songs for music, you can soar.”

Variety Magazine

Suki Lahav's death marks the loss of a significant figure in both American and Israeli music. Following her departure from the E Street Band, she achieved success in Israel as a songwriter and poet, writing for prominent artists and publishing novels. Her legacy continues through her recordings and the impact she had on Springsteen's early work, ensuring that her contributions to music will not be forgotten.

Original Bruce Springsteen Violinist Tzruya 'Suki' Lahav Dies at 74