Hawaiian Ukulele Player Performs Iconic Live Rendition Of 'Over The Rainbow'

Oct 29, 2020

Within the world of music, there are seemingly countless "masterpieces." Thankfully, there is no shortage of incredible musicians performing beautiful pieces. Yet, beyond these works, there is a subset of truly once-in-a-lifetime performances.

These are the concerts that never fail to make you cry due to their beautiful sadness. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole's landmark performance of Over the Rainbow at the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards is unquestionably such a song.

Many people's first introduction to "Brother Iz" was his inclusion in the movie "50 First Dates." Although this song was featured prominently in the movie, it was not the origin of his fame. Rather, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole has long been one of the most famous musicians from the tropical island of Hawaii. He originally covered this Judy Garland classic in the early '90s, garnering himself international attention.

Throughout his rise to fame, he never forgot his home. The people of Hawaii consider Israel a treasure, and rightfully so. He brought attention to their island home and raised awareness of the beauty - and the challenges - of life on the big island.

He was always careful to accurately represent their culture and traditions and never used cheap tricks to exploit their symbols. From the traditional language he used to the leis he often donned while performing, he made sure to be a faithful steward of the Hawaiian culture.

Although he has covered Over the Rainbow in his distinctive style many times, there is one particularly pivotal performance. At the 1996 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, Brother Iz made a star appearance. He was no stranger to the stage, having won Entertainer of the Year many times over the years. This round, he merely returned to give a treat to the audience and performers alike.

At this point in his life, Iz's health was rapidly declining. He had endured a lifelong struggle with his weight, and the fight was taking a tole. Despite his difficulty in walking and his reliance on oxygen, he still took to the stage. With nothing more than a small band, his trademark ukelele, and his beautiful voice, he stunned the audience. Given the Hawaiian nature of the show, Iz decided to put a twist on his classic by performing it in his native language. This made an already captivating show even more personal.

Despite needing oxygen to breathe, there is no sign of weakness in his voice. His stunning vocals filled the room with a breathtaking resonance. Everyone in the room stood up out of respect, awe-struck by the show.

Even though it was an incredibly moving show, it was one filled with sadness. Many members of the audience were forced to acknowledge a bleak reality. At this point in his life, Kamakawiwoʻole knew he did not have long to live, and that this was likely to be one of his final shows.

Unfortunately, this proved to be correct. He had suffered from a heart attack in 1989 but survived. Yet, a complete respiratory failure took the singer's life shortly after this 1996 show.

Iz was not shy about the topic of death. "I'm not scared for myself for dying," he said, "Because I believe all these places are temporary. This is just one shell. We Hawaiians, we live in both worlds. It's in our veins. When my time comes, don't cry for me. Don't cry for me." Following his passing, his life was celebrated with a paddle-out into the waves with thousands in attendance, including noted friend Robin Gerald. It was a fitting tribute for Hawaii's native son.

The man may be gone, but his legacy will never fade. Although this 1996 performance of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" is one of the most famous, there is no shortage of his stunning music. What's your favorite tune of his? God speed, Brother Iz!