What song will the Boston Jewish community be singing at Celebrate Israel with Koolulam on June 2? A new arrangement of “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi!

Koolulam founder Michal Shahaf explains why the group chose this 2000 chart-topper: “‘It’s My Life’ by Bon Jovi is a celebration of perseverance, of overcoming obstacles, and of life—my life, your life, our lives! We are deeply moved by the song’s powerful message of ‘making your own break’ and of ‘standing your ground.’ What better way, then, to celebrate the story of Israel, a nation whose very foundation and existence are the epitome of taking initiative and of standing up for beliefs and ideals? Since its emergence nearly 20 years ago, this inspirational song has moved the hearts of many all around the world, and we can’t wait to hear your voices when we shout it out loud!”

Want to start learning the song? Check out the music video above (it’s Bon Jovi’s most-viewed video on YouTube!) and the lyrics below. And remember to get your tickets before they sell out!

“It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi

This ain’t a song for the broken-hearted
No silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain’t gonna be just a face in the crowd
You’re gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud

It’s my life
It’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
(It’s my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life

This is for the ones who stood their ground
It’s for Tommy and Gina who never backed down
Tomorrow’s getting harder, make no mistake
Luck ain’t enough
You’ve got to make your own breaks

It’s my life
And it’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
(It’s my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I’m alive
It’s my life

You better stand tall when they’re calling you out
Don’t bend, don’t break, baby, don’t back down

It’s my life
And it’s now or never
I ain’t gonna live forever
I just want to live while I’m alive
(It’s my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I’m alive
(It’s my life)

Songwriters: Richard Sambora/Jon Bon Jovi/Max Martin © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC