Who's behind the notes? Discover Israel Kamakawiwo'ole: The Voice of Hawaii
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, often referred to as "IZ," was a Hawaiian musician who gained international recognition for his beautiful rendition of the song "Over the Rainbow." Here are some interesting facts about him and his iconic rendition:
Early Life and Name: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was born on May 20, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii. His full name is Israel Ka'ano'i Kamakawiwo'ole. He was of Native Hawaiian, Chinese, Portuguese, and German descent.
Remarkable Voice: Known for his powerful and gentle voice, Israel had a distinctive ability to convey deep emotions through his singing.
Ukulele and Guitar Mastery: Israel was skilled in playing both the ukulele and the guitar. His unique style combined traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary elements, making his music accessible and appealing to a wide audience.
"Over the Rainbow" Rendition: Israel's most famous rendition is his medley of "Over the Rainbow" from "The Wizard of Oz" and Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World." This medley, often referred to as "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World," became synonymous with his name and brought him worldwide recognition.
Album Featuring the Rendition: The medley was featured on his 1993 album "Facing Future," which became the best-selling Hawaiian album of all time. The album also included other Hawaiian and popular songs, showcasing his eclectic musical style.
Impact and Legacy: Israel's version of "Over the Rainbow" has been used in numerous movies, commercials, and TV shows, further solidifying its cultural impact. It has become a symbol of hope, nostalgia, and optimism.
Physical Challenges: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole struggled with obesity throughout his life, and his weight peaked at around 757 pounds (343 kg). His size prevented him from moving around easily, and he needed assistance to perform and record his music.
Tragic Passing: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole passed away at the age of 38 on June 26, 1997, due to respiratory failure. His untimely death was attributed to his obesity-related health issues. He left behind a wife, Marlene, and a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Posthumous Recognition: Despite his passing, Israel's music and influence continue to thrive. He posthumously received several awards and honors for his contribution to Hawaiian music and culture.
Cultural Ambassador: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole is often regarded as a cultural ambassador of Hawaii. His music reflects the beauty, spirit, and aloha of the Hawaiian islands, and his renditions carry a sense of longing for a simpler and more peaceful world.
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's rendition of "Over the Rainbow" remains a timeless and cherished piece of music, evoking powerful emotions and reminding us of the beauty that can be found in simplicity.