Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a renowned Hawaiian musician, singer, songwriter, and musician, best known for his ukulele-based interpretations of popular songs, including Somewhere Over the Rainbow and What a Wonderful World. He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and grew up in the Kaimuki neighborhood, where he was exposed to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and the United States. Kamakawiwo'ole's music was heavily influenced by Jawaiian music, a unique blend of Jamaican Reggae and traditional Hawaiian music, which was popularized by artists such as The Wailers and Peter Tosh. His music also reflected his connections to Native Hawaiian culture, African American music, and American folk music, as seen in the works of Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie.

Early Life

Kamakawiwo'ole was born to Henry Kaleialoha Naniwa and Evangelina Leinani Kamakawiwo'ole, and was raised in a musical family, with his uncle, Moe Keale, being a well-known Hawaiian musician. He began playing the ukulele at a young age and was influenced by the music of Hawaiian artists such as Don Ho and Alfred Apaka, as well as American musicians like Elvis Presley and The Beach Boys. Kamakawiwo'ole attended Kaimuki High School and later formed a band called Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau with his brother Skippy Kamakawiwo'ole and other friends, which became a popular Hawaiian music group in the 1980s, performing alongside other notable artists like The Brothers Cazimero and Amy Hanaialii.

Music Career

Kamakawiwo'ole's music career spanned over two decades, during which he released several albums, including Ka ʻAnoʻi and Facing Future, which featured his iconic rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. He was signed to Mountain Apple Company, a record label founded by Jon de Mello, and worked with producers like Jon de Mello and Milan Bertosa. Kamakawiwo'ole's music was also featured in various films and television shows, including Meet Joe Black, 50 First Dates, and Lost, which helped to introduce his unique sound to a wider audience, including fans of Hollywood and Bollywood.

Discography

Kamakawiwo'ole's discography includes Ka ʻAnoʻi (1990), Facing Future (1993), E Ala Mai (1995), and N Dis Life (1996), which showcased his eclectic blend of Hawaiian music, Reggae, and Folk. His albums featured collaborations with other notable artists, such as The Makaha Sons, The Brothers Cazimero, and Amy Hanaialii, and were influenced by the music of Jamaican artists like Bob Marley and Toots and the Maytals. Kamakawiwo'ole's music was also released on various compilation albums, including Hawaiian Style and Island Music, which highlighted the diversity of Hawaiian music and its connections to other genres, such as Calypso and Soca.

Style and Influence

Kamakawiwo'ole's music style was characterized by his soulful voice, ukulele playing, and eclectic blend of Hawaiian music, Reggae, and Folk. He was influenced by a wide range of artists, including Hawaiian musicians like Don Ho and Alfred Apaka, as well as American musicians like Elvis Presley and The Beach Boys. Kamakawiwo'ole's music also reflected his connections to Native Hawaiian culture, African American music, and American folk music, as seen in the works of Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie. His unique sound has inspired a new generation of musicians, including Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz, and Ziggy Marley, who have all been influenced by his music and legacy.

Personal Life

Kamakawiwo'ole was married to Marlene Kamakawiwo'ole and had a daughter, Ceslie-Ann Kamakawiwo'ole. He was known for his charismatic stage presence and his love of Hawaiian culture, which he often incorporated into his music and performances. Kamakawiwo'ole was also an advocate for Native Hawaiian rights and was involved in various charitable organizations, including the Hawaiian Sovereignty Movement and the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation. He was a close friend and collaborator of other notable Hawaiian musicians, including The Brothers Cazimero and Amy Hanaialii, and performed at various events and festivals, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival and the Hawaii Music Festival.

Legacy

Kamakawiwo'ole's legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world, including Hawaiian artists like Anuhea and Kimie Miner, as well as American musicians like Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton. His music has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, including Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Scrubs, and The Descendants, which has helped to introduce his unique sound to a wider audience. Kamakawiwo'ole's iconic rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow has become a classic of Hawaiian music and a staple of ukulele-based music, inspiring countless covers and interpretations by artists like Jason Mraz and Train. His legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and the United States. Category: Hawaiian musicians