Israel Kamakawiwoʻole was a Hawaiian musician, who performed his own songs as well as beautiful renditions of other songs while playing the ukulele.
Israel had an amazing voice and is best known for his medley of two famous songs, “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.” He is also remembered for fighting for his country’s independence.
Locals and fans called him the ‘Gentle giant’. The artist got that nickname because of an unbelievable combination of his soft, touching voice and appearance: Israel weighed 757 pounds and was 6 feet 2 inches tall.
The musician’s moving lyrics and melodies still touch listeners’ heartstrings.
Kamakawiwoʻole passed away at the age of 38 in 1997. The Hawaii state flag flew at half-staff on July 10, 1997, the day of Kamakawiwoʻole’s funeral. He was the third person in his country’s history to be awarded this honor.
He is a Hawaiian legend indeed!
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