To people bashing Iz, let me tell you he may have lived a very short life but he has reached to thousands of people and made people smile with his beautiful melodies and message. He will always be remembered for generations. What about you haters? All you see is something so superficial and wanting to live long but in your long lives, what have you contributed? Did you make others happy? Did you help others? At least before you grow old and tired, do something meaningful other than being a massive brainless prick. Otherwise, you will live in your old age full of regret and frustration.
Well said..well said! But take heart about the trolls eh? Don't worry. Their bitching is nothing. Its white noise. What matters is that every human being with ears to hear, upon hearing him sing Somewhere Over the Rainbow, knows that IZ had the voice of an angel. Five hundred years from now people will still be filled with wonder at the music of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - and no one will remember the trolls.
This was at the 1996 Hoku Awards, the year before Iz passed. Towards the end, Iz was joined on stage by his ex-bandmates, The Makaha Sons. Not a dry eye in the house. Will forever remember seeing this and what a beautiful moment captured on TV. Mahalo for posting. Iz had his issues, but he was a beautiful soul with a voice to match. He was so beloved, his koa wood coffin lay in state at the capitol building. 3rd person in Hawaiian history to be honored and only one not a government official. Tens of thousands attended his funeral and for the scattering of ashes at Makua Beach via the Hokule'a. There was even a convoy of 18-wheelers blowing their horns in salute.Say what you want, but this man and his music left a mark on the people of Hawai'i.
+pouncer84 And when you put Jesus in your heart, you are newborn like a little baby he says.....My daughter and I love this video and this man....may God rest his soul and may he be singing in heaven until I get there to hear him in person. Praise God and thank you for this video post.
+pouncer84 Nice tribute. I worked at Queens where IZ died. He would come often to the hospital for needed medical care. Once in a while he and his family would sing. There wasn't a sound on the floor. He was an amazing talent, a sweet gentle soul and had the voice of an angel while on earth. May God hold him gently in His arms while he rests. Amen.
I just love his voice. I weep every time I hear him and what he stands for. He made an impact in the Hawaiian youth to protect and be proud of their Hawaiian heritage. He is right about the US gov't taking land from the true Hawaiians. That was true injustice. This song is an example of that. It grips the heart to the core.
Israel and his family all suffered from the same health issue and it wasn't simple obesity it was a glandular condition to where their weight was truly unmanageable and with that issue came other diseases and conditions. He was a wonderful person inside and out and still to this day is one of the strongest voices of the Hawaiian people. Us Hawaiians have a proverb or "olelo no'eau" that says, Aloha ke kahi i ke kahi which means to love one another. No matter what the person looks like or how ignorant they may be with their comments, respect and love is what everyone should practice because in the end we are not one to judge others that's for God to do. No one is perfect so no one should be critical of another person...especially one who has passed away. RIP Bruddah IZ and may your music live on!
Lilinoe Saballos I understand your message but do not agree. With a good sport program and healthy food it is possible to stop such a letal process. The problem was, people didn't know a lot about this, and this because they are not interested in others. When IZ realized what is going on with him it was simply to late for these times. Today it would be possible to help him. I blame also what he is blaming, listen carefully his comments in the video. A society which does not take enough responsibility leads to such situations.I can assure you I would prefer to have him alive today. We cannot allow us to loose valuable people only because Coca Cola or the fastfoot restaurants want sell their garbage. So better no excuses and explanations. Point out the concurrent causes and work on this. Be realistic, more and more people facing such problems.
+Lilinoe Saballos (hulanoe21) It is very true what you say and give us great teaching with your words, as big as the island Hawaii .... I am Venezuelan and redicado in Chile ... but always respect and admire them for their principles and unity and the love of his people.I am that before I die I will know its beautiful island and witness its wonderful people. Regards.
Over eating is not what killed him, a disorder in his body did and God gave him a short time to be with us, to give us a beauty that brings tears every time I hear it. My 39 year old daughter died this year, my grand-son, her son, dedicated "Over the Rainbox and Its a Wonderful World to his mom. Listen and you can hear God speaking to you.
Funny how people hate on him cause his weight, yet he touched millions with his music and beautiful voice, and STILL to this day people listen to his music LMAO......you haters are to much.....Jealous cause one island boy is known worldwide.
OMG ! I cry every time I watch this ! IZ was about PEACE & LOVE ❤️. Not a mean bone in his body !!! WHAT A GREAT SINGER AND VOICE ! R. I. P M Y FRIEND !
Hawaii lost a national treasure when they lost Iz. I picked up on his music after he had passed away, not knowing he'd passed, and felt Israel was such a special, humble man, and that finally Hawaiians had a spokesman for them. So I was very sad to find that he'd gone. RIP Israel.
I'm sick of bored people stupidly posting their negative comments/attacks on Israel Kamakawiwo's videos.Weight , weight ,weight , who cares?,I mean the guy has passed away just let him be.Israel was happy with who he was ,he had the balls to confront people on stage and left many of us feeling sympathy.I don't care what anyone says but Israel kamakawiwo was an inspiration to me, he was always happy, joyful and brave.His voice is beautiful and unique in many ways.The happy ,short-lived spirit of Israel Kamakawwo Lives on forever and no matter what anyone says that can't be changed.
It saddens me to know that anyone could speak ill of such a wonderful, loving and beautiful man that brought so much to this world through his heart felt music and messages. I wish I could have known him personally, because as a music teacher, I spend so much time trying to carry that message of love to young people. What an incredible soul. I am grateful to RU-vid for sharing so many beautiful performances.
I find it my duty to persevere share and teach learn the history of Hawai‘I and the kanaka maoli & the Aliʻi so that the true meaning of Hawai’i never diminishes- I miss my hale in Kailua o’ahu I left in 1989.
My son who is now a teenager has been listening to IZ of his own volition since he was a young child. One evening as we were listening to IZ, in a very sad voice he asked me if IZ was alive when he was born (2000). We had to google this as I did not know the answer. Christian then went on to say " I wish IZ was still alive, can you imagine what he would be singing now if he still was?" IZ still affecting children born even after his passing. That is powerful!
First time I heard him singing “Somewhere over the Rainbow” I cried. I loved him from that day on & to hear him testify about 3:09 Jesus, Priceless! ❤❤
I have a weird feeling.. as soon as he started singing I had a lump in my throat and tears just begin to pour :') it's amazing because I don't understand the language but I can feel the emotion and the beautiful language of music
Yes you see my friend this is God his presents is what you feel coming from this song and from this man that is singing it for he is %100 a godly saved man that is now with his lord God to be forever and every and in perfectness now
@@marvinthemaniac7698 Nirvana and reincarnation are just wrong beliefs. When you accept Jesus, and repent you feel that all your sins are forgiven and that you belong to Heaven. You don't just believe it, you feel it. And you got to be filled with the Holy Spirit(Jesus promised to everyone who follows him) and by him you will be granted the knowledge of the truth. And you will feel to that God is listening to your prayers. Give your life to Jesus. He welcomes everyone. Peace and love to you ❤
Never heard Hawaian Christian praise. So blessed to hear it today. Heaven came on earth, here right in my East African country Djibouti, so so far away from this beautiful Hawaai. Thank you Jesus!!!!
Mike Johnson same here bro I can't understand the words that he's saying but I get that heart pinching feeling that made me tear up when I listened to this song 😞 R. I. P. IZ you will be remembered in our hearts forever
Kaleohano means "The voice of authority". Translated, the song says..."Kaleohano is your name./My home, Keaukaha. (Keaukaha="the passing current". This refers, particularly, to Hawaiian homelands in Hilo.)/Famous is Keaukaha./My land, my native land; Dashing, and receding (is)the sea./Famous is Keaukaha./Love I Mauna Kea (The snowy mountain on the island of Hawaii), in the cold evening./Listen, listen, listen, to the voice of the wind./Keaukaha, indeed, the place." (for reference, the Hawaiian word Kekaha means, "the place". Hope this helps. Aloha.
Mia Alt Thank you Dear Mia. It's great to finally know what it says, and your explanations about the places is helpful to us mainlanders who know nothing. I love the way the Hawaiian culture recognizes the beauty we are born into, similar to Native Americans way of honoring nature and things as they are. Iz brings it home powerfully, with love, so much love. Aloha.
I copied this from another post of this same song because I think it is important to share: "if anyone is interested.. this was IZ's last live performance. The 3 who came up on stage, to his right was Moon( brother in-law), to his left were members of the Makaha Sons( the Koko brothers). They were on no speaking terms since IZ's departure of the band and start of his solo career. The Hawaiian in the audience that was shedding tears they kept panning to is Keali'i Reichel. This was a historic night in Hawaiian music as the Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau finally reach reconciliation with braddah IZ. I was to young to remember this, but my pops, a Kanaka, 3rd generation, born and raised Lahaina says that this night was more memorable than his wedding night"
I had to sign in to comment. I was appalled to see that people had bashed this man. What he has done for me is to bring daily joy as I am able to stream a station from Honolulu into my office in LA. When I hear Iz (and a few others) I turn it up. I have never had a complaint. I can't see the comments that were negative but I just want to say what a wonderful invention the internet is to allow me to hear Iz daily and I only wish he had lived longer. Especially right now, we need more beauty in our world and he brought his beautiful music to us to make us happy. What makes me sad (besides bad comments) is that he is no longer here to know how much he is loved and cherished. I can't pick a favorite song, I love them all. I just wish we had someone here to bring that kind of sunshine and "mahalo". He is missed, big time!
... I was THRILLED to hear him talk about Jesus ~ directing his comments to the youth and encouraging all people to invite the Lord into their hearts; speaking of "being Born Again" like a new person. He left a mark, as big as his heart! I'll see him in Heaven!
We do....its Iam Tongi...a finalist on American Idol. People have the exact same reaction to him as they do IZ! I cry every time Iam Tongi performs...and am voting for him each time. I truly think he will win...people adore him!!!
So so beautiful and sweet soulful music, and I just wanted to say that GOD ✝️ doesn't make mistakes and Iz is that very proof of that fact, such a blessed and beautiful soul,.life is nothing without music, we got proof, look and listen to this great BLESSED soul. R.I.P Iz you was an angel sent by GOD ✝️ himself to help heal people's 💓, and now brother Iz you are an Angel 😇 above us all here on earth, and I know that you're looking down on the whole world smiling from ear to ear watching everybody cherishing your beautiful and unique voice that only the man himself ( GOD ✝️ ) your voice brother is such a beautiful blessed gift giving by GOD ✝️ because GOD ✝️ knew that he was the only one to do this and bring peace, serenity and harmony to so so many people and you have succeeded what GOD ✝️ had planned for you now you rest my brother 💜 Iz such an amazing human being. You sit up there in heaven my darling with GOD ✝️ and watch over everyone here on the face of earth. Keep on singing my friend I'm pretty sure that GOD ✝️ is gonna let you do what you love ...... BLESSED BLESSED SOUL....
Knowing the battles Iz had because of his genetic condition and the toll it took on his body, watching this brought tears to my eyes. I'm pretty sure this was probably one of his final live performances given the emotions of his former bandmates and the audience. Gone way too soon, but safely in the arms of a loving Savior. Thankfully, we still have his music, so his wonderful spirit lives on.
Just watched this again, got emotional again, but this time I really listened to his message and the emotions of his former bandmates, and It finally hit me - THIS was his goodbye, his final appearance on a major stage. Be knew his body was breaking down and he wouldn't be on this earthly plain much longer. That was the beauty of Bruddah Iz - knowing he was gonna die but thinking about everyone else instead of himself, giving sound advice, stern admonishments and a message of hope. As I am a man of faith, I look forward to seeing him again someday. I'm guessing that the hymns of Heaven sound a little different with a steel guitar and a ukulele. I'm looking forward to it.
Found this guy a week ago,never heard of him before as i`m from the UK,can`t stop listening now,what a beautiful soul,just goes to prove music reaches parts of us wherever its from in the world if its heartfelt and honest,after all as IZ says and i am in total agreement with him theirs only one race,the human race,hence we relate to each others plight no matter where your from,love you brudda IZ x
this was a "chicken skin" moment in hawaii history. little background on this video. the group had separated for years. supposedly they were on bad terms. when bradah iz sang this song the whole group came on stage unexpectedly. i was young and cried like hell. till this day, this vid brings tears to my eyes.
He passed the year I was born, but I still cry every time I see the Makaha sons come on stage to finish the song with him because I know the story behind that whole thing. Its so touching 😭❤️
He is talking about his friend kaleohano and how kaleohano is telling them about living on the big island around Mona kea and how the land calls to him. How he has a love for his ancestral home. And of course Iz talking about his friends and how the did wrong but are paying for their crimes, how the love of Jesus Christ can change a person if you just trust in him. The man was wise beyond his years and loving, compassionate and it shows in all his music. He is truly missed and I just found him a year and a half ago.
My parents told me that they had taken me to this performance, but I was only 2 years old at the time. I wish I could've been able to remember this. Now I'm 25 & as a young man, I have no problem admitting that this performance makes me cry every time. Just the speech before the song is enough.....
I had the most beautiful dream about Iz. It was just like he was really there, with me .. on a WHITE SANDY BEACH. We walked and talked, and I got to tell him how much I deeply admire him. He knew, at his death, he would never die!!!!! He would live, with Christ in Heaven. (Can't wait to catch his show THERE!)
At this time he was on oxygen almost full time. What an incredible voice & soul. Aloha au Iв Mauna Kea, I ke anu o ke ahiahi = Love I Mauna White Mountain, in the cold of the evening. Ho'olono, ho'olono, ho'olono I ka leo ka makani = Listen, listen, listen to the voice of the wind.
IZ. Is just beautiful no matter what his size. This world was so glad to have him.God bless him and his family. He will live on in all our hearts...love you Iz!!!
HE WAS AN ANGEL THAT GOD SENT TO EARTH TO HELP US ON OUR JOURNEY. GOD NEEDED HIM IN HEAVEN MORE THAN WE NEEDED HIM, BUT THE MESSAGE OF HOPE AND LOVE WILL LIVE ON FOREVER. WE LOVE YOU BROTHER IZ!
Had the honor to meet both Uncle Skippy, Uncle Israel along with Uncle Moon, Uncle John & Uncle Jerome back at Waikii Festival. Legends til the end the 3 will be...tears to your eyes listening to all the songs from the past.
I just came to this page, I heard " Over the Rainbow" on Hawaii 5 0. Fan pages shouldnt be used to mock someone who couldnt help how big or small they are, just another way of bullying. This is a real shame, someone who cant defend their selves, people who do this are COWARDS. This man had a beautiful voice. Let him rest in peace.
His songs are awesome just like he was and always will be. WE were all blessed to listen to his music and him.... We all have our Problems for that means just never know what everyone else is going thru so God knows all things put it upon God's hands he wants you too Much Love PeaceTo IZ..... RIP
What a beautiful person, who left an indelible mark on his people.. He spoke from the heart, sang from his soul.. If only the world had more people like IZ .. Kamakawiwo Ole Hawai was so blessed to have you,, if only for a little while
I don’t know what he is saying but this song brings tears to my eyes because of the heart from which it is sung. Just met this man in the last few months but I feel such love for him. What a testimony he has. Still after this many years since he passed, he is touching hearts and passing on his secrets to life.
as soon as i move ill move hawii i love hawii its gonna be in memory of IZ i feel bad for him for such a great voice and soul its so sad for his loss of life it makes me cry when i hear his music, but the tear i cry are tears of joy i hope this comment reaches to heaven
This song always brings me to tears, I love seeing the Makaha Sons of Niihau back together for one last song. John Koko and IZ are now jamming together with Skippy.
Love this song . Everyone in these generations gotta stop the violence and spread choke ALOHA . Love you braddah iz . Chee hoo! your music will always live on . Made me tear up
I’ve heard his version of Over the Rainbow in numerous commercials, and I always admired it. Such a beautiful voice. A simple arrangement with his Ukulele. I’d often wondered who the artist was who recorded it. Well, I heard the song again today, and I grabbed my iPad and learned about Iz. Wow. A gentle soul. A natural, gifted talent with an unbelievable voice. I’ve purchased and downloaded his albums. Just incredible. Gone way too soon, but he left such a legacy for his short time on Earth. Thank you!
😔 i will forever have this in my heart. Aloha uncle. May u rest and sing with my grandma dancing hula in heaven to your beautiful voice. Aloha ole. Go in peace let go let God. 🤙
His message was GOLDEN! & when he said what's in a rag? It's fo blow hanabata🤣🤣Classic! & The part where he talked about Jesus in your heart---Oh brah Chicken skin° Iz spoke the truth! God blessed this man beyond comprehension. His voice alone is proof...Mahalo Uncle Izrael for blessing this world🤙🏽
Hermoso video lastima que se fue de viaje para nunca Bolver y nos dejo sus legado sus hermosas cansiones veo Este video y no puedo pasar de llorar una vos inigualable cantaba como un Angel alla estara al lado de dios cantandole a el .. asta siempre en mi corazon ISRAEL IZ....😢
yes same here when i watched his somewhere over the rainbow i was worried if he was a believer ( christians ) and turns out he is so he is now in heaven. however is he a jewish or a christian??
+Michelle Lee Since he was Hawaiian and gave the salvation message he must be Christian. Jewish people unless they are saved and become Christian do not accept Jesus as their savior. Remember, they are the ones who sent Him to the cross.
What a beautiful man inside and out. He was having a difficult time breathing in this video. God Bless his soul. Hawaii lost a great man. It is wonderful to know I will meet him in heaven some day. He sure was loved and will always be loved. I get the feeling that the people from Hawaii are a gentle people. I will never get to travel there but know it has to be the most beautiful place on earth.
First time I took time to see the person behind the voice of Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What a Wonderful World - it took me all of 10 seconds how special Iz was - When this guy sings it's a shot right to my heart - before I know it tears are falling down my cheeks - It is because it is so beautiful - I have been playing guitar for 40 plus years, I have an ear so I know what is good and what is crap - I've been touched today by IZ and I am forever hooked - I am so sad that he had passed,so long ago - I've been living under a rock not realizing that there was this talent out there who had touched so many. I know I'm going to be busy passing this man's music on to folks around here who haven't heard him or were aware of him. They only know of the version of Over The Rainbow from the Drew Barrymore movie. They are in for a treat! God Bless You IZ
This message should be addressed for the world ! We all need to make this world a better place for our youngsters, that they have something to hold onto LIKE ALL our forefathers made for us ❤️
We have had our share of angelic singers in Hawaii, past & present but Bruddah Iz crossed generations & touched the hearts & minds of the young & old. His wing span was much broader than him. He brought together people from coast to coast and all over the world. Thru this man & his music we get to understand the deeper meaning of thee "Aloha Spirit" as he soars above us now never to be forgotten rather to have left us with the understanding that we as a people are but one race. The human race! .....
Deus manda anjos a que chamamos de amigos, este pelo visto era um de seus melhores anjos, por isto deixa saudades mesmo sem ter conhecido pessoalmente.
Been to Hawaii once ,about 8 years ago and loved it one of my favorite places I have been to.The people are so friendly and nice . Thank you all for a pleasant visit .
Young people in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada need to hear this great man. There are so many young Aboriginal people downtown and in the West End caught up in gangs and all they get into. They need to hear this message.
His Music is so inspiring , its has a meaning that touches our heart. A gental and wonderful man that left this world giving us so much mean to his songs!!
I lava this song and this guy. Such a humble down to Earth person It's so sad he perished and died Whenever I see a rainbow I think of him and this song
