In the summer of 1997, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, already celebrated as one of Hawaii’s most beloved singers, passed away due to respiratory failure. At the time, he was beginning to witness the success of his rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, a famous song sung by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz from 1939.

At the time of his death, Israel was a morbidly obese 38-year-old. His story is always told as the journey of an immortal legend, whose unique voice and innate talent redefined Hawaiian music. Come with me to dive into the life and career of this icon, from his first chords to his last days. Leave in the comments which songs you love the most from Israel, and don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe if you haven’t already!

00:00 INTRO
00:38 WHO IS ISRAEL KAMAKAWIWO’OLE?
02:58 THE STORY OF “SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW”
06:46 ISRAEL KAMAKAWIWO’OLE’S DEPARTURE AND LEGACY

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