Everyone knows the famous song “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” and millions more have heard this version accompanied by a ukulele,but they don’t know much about the singer.
Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole was born on May 20th, 1959 at Kuakini Medical Center in Honolulu to Henry “Hank” Kaleialoha Naniwa Kamakawiwoʻole, Jr. and Evangeline “Angie” Leinani Kamakawiwoʻole. The notable Hawaiian musician Moe Keale was his uncle and a major musical influence.
He began playing music with his older brother Skippy and cousin Allen Thornton at the age of 11.
He was a native Hawaiian singer and song writer. He achieved commercial success outside Hawaii when his album Facing Future was released in 1993
His song was used in many TV shows, films and commercials.
Unfortunately he was called back to God at a very early age of 38 on June 26th, 1997. He has serious health problems originated from his weight.
The legacy what he left behind is here with us for many more decades: