Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a Hawaiian musician born in Honolulu in 1958 - 1997. He grew up Ni'ihau where 100 percent of the population is Hawaiians to this day. He gained popularity when he recorded a ukelele cover of "What a Wonderful World/Over the Rainbow" in 1993, which is still being played and is recognized as one of the definitive versions of the song.

While also being a musician, he was also an activist for Hawaiian rights. He used music as a platform to speak of how Hawaiian natives were treated as second class citizens in their birthplace of Hawaii. One of his other famous songs was called "Hawaii '78", where he wrote about how his Hawaiian ancestors would react to modern Hawaii.

Israel to this day is celebrated for his music and activism for his people, and his legacy as the world's "gentle giant" will forever be remembered.

Source:

https://www.inverse.com/culture/israel-kamakawiwoole-google-doodle