ISRAEL ‘IZ’ KAMAKAWIWO‘OLE

Maybe most of you wonder what my title is all about.

Well, I'm writing about this passionate musician, Israel Kamakawiwo Ole.

He's performing ;)

Kamakawiwo'ole, the singer and musician who was better known as "Iz" and who drew the respect of music lovers and the Hawaiian community, died at Queen's Medical Center. The 38-year-old performer had problems with his weight and related illnesses and had been under care at the hospital for respiratory ailments. Israel was a huge guy but he still managed to create lovely music when he was still alive. He had traveled many roads in his life. Singing, composing, instrumentalizing, producing albums and winning other Na Hoku Hanohano awards. In 1994 he was chosen entertainer of the year. One of his covers, Somewhere over the rainbow/what a wonderful world, is my favourite song at the moment. To me, I think appearance is not important in order to achieve something good in life. Most people maybe look at him as a fat lazy guy but look, he has proven that his overweight problem is not a factor at all. According to some source, he really shared his love of his music and he was a joy to be around, people gravitated toward him and they will perpetuate his music.

List of his songs.

"No Kristo" 1976
"Kahea o Keale" 1977
"Keala" 1978
"Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau" 1979
"Mahalo Ke Akua" 1981
"Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha" 1984
"Ho'ola" 1986
"Makaha Bash 3 Live" 1991
"Ho'oluana" 1992

SOLO "Ka'ano'i" 1990
"Facing Future" 1993
"E Ala E" 1995
"n Dis Life" 1996

I believe his music will live for a very very long time. To 'Iz' , may you rest in peace.

Hooga Hooga!