Celebrating the Legacy of Israel 'IZ' Kamakawiwo'ole, Hawaiian Music Pioneer
In the heart of Honolulu, Hawaii, on May 20, 1959, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, affectionately known as "IZ" or "Braddah IZ," was born. This celebrated Hawaiian musician and cultural icon left an indelible mark on the world with his soulful rendition of the medley "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World."
IZ's musical journey began co-founding the band The Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau with his brother Skippy and John Kapualani Koko. The group recorded 21 albums and won numerous Hawai'i Academy of Recording Arts Awards (Na Hoku Hanohano Awards). However, it was his 1993 solo album Facing Future that truly catapulted him to global stardom, featuring his now-iconic medley[3].
Born to Evangeline Keale Kamakawiwo'ole and Henry "Tiny" Kaleialoha Naniwa Kamakawiwo'ole, IZ was deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. His mother's ancestral roots could be traced back to Ni'ihau, also known as the Forbidden Isle. Growing up, IZ was exposed to music at an early age, often watching from the side of the stage at a nightclub called Steamboats in Waikiki[1].
The Hawaiian Renaissance, a resurgence of Hawaiian language, music, dance, navigation, and voyaging, as well as political activism and awareness, including protection of sacred spaces, was a significant part of IZ's life and music. As an activist, IZ embraced and promoted Hawaiian culture and heritage, making significant contributions to this movement[3][1].
Tragically, IZ's life was cut short by a heart attack in 1997 at the age of 38, just as "Over the Rainbow" was becoming successful. His death was mourned by thousands, with his ashes being taken by a traditional Hawaiian voyaging canoe down the coast of Hawaii, with people lining the ocean roads to honk their car horns in tribute[2].
In a poignant display of respect, IZ's body lay in state at Hawaii's Capitol building, and 10,000 people came to pay their respects[2]. Today, IZ remains an enduring figure in Hawaiian music and cultural history, with his version of "Over the Rainbow" being used in numerous films, television shows, and ad campaigns.
In 2004, "Over the Rainbow" reached No. 12 on Billboard's Hot Digital Tracks chart and has since sold millions of digital copies[4]. In 1993, IZ began a successful solo career after leaving the Makaha Sons, and in 2002, "Facing Future" achieved gold certification, before going on to sell over 1 million units and achieving platinum status in 2005[4].
Despite his untimely passing, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. He will forever be remembered as "the son of the islands" for his deep connection to Hawaiian culture and his role in bringing it to the world stage through his heartfelt music and activism.
Entertainment and celebrities intertwined in the life of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, a globally renowned musician, as his soulful medley "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World" garnered him worldwide stardom. Following his departure from the band The Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau, IZ embarked on a successful solo career, with his album "Facing Future" featuring his iconic medley.
