Israel Ka'ano'i Kamakawiwo'ole

Born and raised in Hawai’i, Israel is known as the best Hawaiian musician. His ukulele rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World rocketed him to fame and won him several awards. Inspired by the Hawaiian Resistance and the musicians integral to resurrecting Hawaiian culture, Israel wrote about Hawaiian sovereignty and preserving the natural beauty of Hawai’i and its traditions. Israel came from a family of musicians, and as such, learned to play the ukulele at the age of six. He and his brother spent much of their childhood playing music at the beach, family events, and nightclubs. He immediately made connections with his fans through his voice, leading to his popularity around the world. The simplicity of his singing and ukulele on his version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World made him famous, but his ability to make connections with people through his powerful voice is what made him legendary. Even today, Hawaiian musicians and traditions get recognition because of the impact Israel had on the music industry at the time.