Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole, popularly known as Iz, Big Iz, or The Gentle Giant, was a vocalist who made a lasting impression on Hawaiian music.

One of his best-known songs, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” was published in 1993 as part of his album “Facing Future.” With its calm and gentle rhythms, this medley perfectly portrays the spirit of island life.

Not only did the song become extremely famous, but it also appeared on several TV shows, advertisements, and movie soundtracks, including “Meet Joe Black” and “Son of the Mask.” For Kamakawiwoʻole, the song’s importance extended beyond its financial success.

Through the smooth strumming of the tenor ukulele and Iz’s lovely falsetto, he aimed to conserve and resuscitate the traditional Hawaiian culture, which he saw as being overtaken by the vacation industry. This medley was a passionate expression of his love for his hometown, as well as a reminder of Hawaiian life’s beauty and peacefulness.