At 3 a.m. one night in 1988, Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole called a local studio and said he needed to record something immediately. He pleaded with the engineer: "Please, can I come in? I have an idea." Kamakawiwo'ole recorded the iconic version of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" in one take, which would soon touch countless people across the globe.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole: A Voice Larger Than Life historydefined.net/israel-kamakaw…
@fasc1nate Absolutely iconic , and this song has 1.3 B views on YT
The name Kamakawiwo'ole means "the fearless eye/the bold face" in Hawaiian. Hawaii was an independent, sovereign nation that was illegally overtaken by the United States in 1893. In 1993, President Clinton apologized for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy by sighing legislation.
@fasc1nate @aim4thelight I remember this. It was brilliant
@fasc1nate I'am so glad he did, his version melts every heart that has fuel.
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, often affectionately referred to as "Iz," left an indelible mark on the world, transcending his physical presence through his music, activism, and his deep connection to the Hawaiian culture. Born on May 20, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii, he was destined to become an icon of the islands. Iz's love for music began at a young age, and he quickly mastered the ukulele, a quintessential Hawaiian instrument. His soothing voice and unique rendition of classic Hawaiian songs captured the hearts of both locals and tourists alike. Iz's music was a bridge between generations, merging traditional Hawaiian melodies with contemporary influences, resulting in a timeless sound that resonated far beyond the shores of Hawaii. Beyond his musical talents, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a fervent advocate for the Hawaiian sovereignty movement. He believed passionately in the rights of native Hawaiians to self-determination and sought to raise awareness about the injustices that had befallen his people over the years. Through his songs, he not only entertained but also educated, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage and the struggles faced by Hawaiians. However, Iz's life was marked by a profound personal battle: obesity. He faced this challenge from a young age, and despite attempts to improve his health, his weight continued to increase. On June 26, 1997, at the age of just 38, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole passed away, leaving behind an immense legacy but also a deep sense of loss. The day of his funeral was a somber occasion in Hawaii. The flag flew at half-mast as a symbol of the collective mourning for the loss of a beloved son of Hawaii. In a poignant final farewell, approximately 10,000 people gathered at Makua Beach to witness his ashes being cast into the Pacific Ocean, a tribute to his profound connection to the land and sea that were central to his identity. Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's music and message continue to resonate today, reminding people of the beauty and strength of Hawaii's culture and its people. His life serves as an enduring testament to the power of art and activism to inspire and unite communities, transcending the boundaries of time and space.