Hawaiian Music - Israel Kamakawiwoʻole

Visitors to Oahu Hawaii can enjoy wonderful Hawaiian music at musical venues, luaus or simply on your car radio as you explore the island.  There have been many great Hawaiian musicians but the best one of all was probably Israel Kamakawiwoʻole or simply "IZ".

Born in Honolulu Oahu, Kamakawiwo'ole grew up on the Island of Oahu. His beautiful voice combined with the magic of the Hawaiian ukulele helped to make him the most popular musician in Hawaii.

Israel's unique renditions of "Somewhere over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" made him famous around the world.

Tragically, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole passed away on June 26, 1997 at the age of 38 years old. He had suffered from severe obesity during the latter years of his life.