When I die, though I have said numerous times that I don’t want one, if I have a funeral, I want Israel Kamakawiwo'ole playing. Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, or Iz, is best known for his rendition of “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” from his second album Facing Future. What most people hear is actually only half the song. The song in its entirety is also a cover of “What a Wonderful World.” Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a Hawaiian musician. He played the ukulele and provided the vocals for his song. He began releasing his solo works in the early 90’s but was part of a group in the 80’s called Makaha Sons of Ni‘ihau. He released for albums in his lifetime; Ka 'Ano'i, Facing Future, E Ala E, and N Dis Life. He died in 1997 from complications due to his weight but posthumously has had 4 more albums released; Iz in Concert: The Man and His Music, Alone in Iz World, Iz: The Man Behind the Music, and Wonderful World. He was a known advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty and has been honored by the Hawaiian people and government both in life and death. You should be listening to Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.
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