Honoring Israel 'IZ' Kamakawiwo'ole, Legendary Singer of Hawaii

Honoring Israel 'IZ' Kamakawiwo'ole, Legendary Singer of Hawaii

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, fondly known as IZ, was a significant figure in the Hawaiian Cultural Renaissance. Born on May 20, 1959, IZ was the third child of Evangeline Keale Kamakawiwo'ole and Henry "Tiny" Kaleialoha Naniwa Kamakawiwo'ole.

IZ's early life was steeped in music, thanks to his family's involvement in a nightclub called Steamboats in Waikiki. This exposure to music paved the way for IZ's future career as a Hawaiian ukulele player and singer.

The Kamakawiwo'ole family moved to the Wai'anae coast, where IZ and his brother Skippy met John Kapualani Koko. This friendship led to the formation of the musical group the Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau. The Makaha Sons were an integral part of the Hawaiian Renaissance, contributing to the resurgence of Hawaiian cultural identity through their music.

Despite moving to the Wai'anae coast against his wishes, IZ continued to make a significant impact on Hawaiian music. In 1993, he began a successful solo career after leaving the Makaha Sons.

IZ's first release, "Facing Future," included his memorable cover of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World," which was recorded in a single take around 3 a.m. This iconic medley became his most famous work, reaching global audiences and symbolizing hope and resilience.

IZ's version of "Over the Rainbow" has been used in many films, television shows, and ad campaigns, further cementing his status as a musical ambassador for Hawaiian culture. In 2004, the song reached No. 12 on Billboard's Hot Digital Tracks chart and has sold millions of digital copies. In 2002, "Facing Future" became the top-selling Hawaiian music album in the world, certified gold, and later platinum (selling more than 1 million units) in 2005.

IZ's contributions to the Hawaiian Renaissance extended beyond music. He was a vocal advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty, helping to preserve and promote Hawaiian culture during a time of cultural revival. His influence extended beyond Hawaii, as he helped rekindle pride and awareness of Native Hawaiian identity on a global scale.

Tragically, IZ's life was cut short by a heart attack in 1997 at the age of 38, just as "Over the Rainbow" was starting to become successful. However, his legacy lives on, with his music continuing to inspire and bring people together.

After his death, IZ's ashes were taken by traditional Hawaiian voyaging canoe down the coast of Hawaii, with people lining the ocean roads to honk their car horns in tribute. His body lay in state at Hawaii's Capitol building, and 10,000 people came to pay their respects.

In summary, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's significance lies in:

• Being a prominent cultural icon and musical ambassador for the Hawaiian Renaissance;
• Promoting Hawaiian sovereignty and cultural pride through his artistry;
• Helping revive interest in traditional Hawaiian music and language within the context of a larger cultural revival.

[1] Hawaiian Cultural Renaissance. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.hawaii.gov/hawaiian/culture/history/renaissance/

[2] Kamakawiwo'ole, Israel. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.britannica.com/biography/Israel-Kamakawiwoole

[3] The Hawaiian Renaissance. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hawaiian-Renaissance

[4] The Hawaiian Renaissance. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from https://www.pbs.org/pov/hawaiianrenaissance/

1. Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, a crucial figure in the Hawaiian Cultural Renaissance, not only excelled as a Hawaiian ukulele player and singer but also extended his influence by covering popular songs like "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World," which showcased celebrities involved in music and represented the entertainment industry.
2. The Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau, formed by IZ and his brother Skippy, were an important part of the Hawaiian Renaissance, contributing to the resurgence of Hawaiian cultural identity through music, thus highlighting the involvement of celebrities and promoting entertainment centered around Hawaiian heritage.

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