Somewhere over the Rainbow – Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole

Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is a powerful and enchanting cover that has captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. Released as part of his 1993 album Facing Future, this unique version of the classic song blends Hawaiian folk elements with traditional pop, creating a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate across generations. This article delves into the song’s background, musical composition, and its lasting impact on both Kamakawiwoʻole’s legacy and popular music.

Background and Inspiration

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, affectionately known as IZ, was a renowned Hawaiian musician whose voice and style became synonymous with the spirit of Hawaii. Born in Honolulu in 1959, Kamakawiwoʻole grew up immersed in the rich musical traditions of his homeland. His music often reflected the themes of love, nature, and Hawaiian culture, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences.

The song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was originally composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg for the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. Sung by Judy Garland, the song has become an iconic piece in American pop culture, known for its hopeful and dreamy lyrics. Kamakawiwoʻole’s version, however, took a different approach, infusing the song with Hawaiian sensibilities and a unique, soulful twist.

Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover was recorded in the early 1990s and became part of his album Facing Future. The album was a significant release in Hawaiian music, and the inclusion of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was a standout feature that highlighted Kamakawiwoʻole’s distinctive style.

Musical Composition

Kamakawiwoʻole’s version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is notable for its simplicity and emotional depth. The song is performed with Kamakawiwoʻole’s gentle, melodic voice accompanied solely by his ukulele playing. This stripped-down arrangement contrasts with the grand orchestration of the original, emphasizing the raw emotion and intimacy of Kamakawiwoʻole’s performance.

The ukulele, a traditional Hawaiian instrument, is central to Kamakawiwoʻole’s arrangement. Its bright, resonant tones provide a warm, inviting backdrop for his vocals. The gentle strumming pattern and the song’s slow tempo contribute to its calming and reflective quality. Kamakawiwoʻole’s voice is characterized by its smoothness and sincerity, conveying a sense of longing and hope that aligns with the song’s original message.

One of the distinctive features of Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover is the seamless blending of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. This medley combines the two songs into a single, continuous performance, creating a powerful and evocative listening experience. The transition between the two songs is fluid, and Kamakawiwoʻole’s ability to maintain the emotional tone throughout the medley demonstrates his skill as both a vocalist and a performer.

Impact and Reception

Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” received widespread acclaim for its heartfelt and innovative interpretation. The song quickly became a favorite among listeners, and its popularity grew steadily over the years. It was featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.

The song’s impact was amplified by its use in the 2010 film 50 First Dates, which introduced Kamakawiwoʻole’s music to a new generation of listeners. The film’s romantic and whimsical tone complemented the song’s dreamy quality, and its inclusion in the soundtrack helped boost its popularity.

Critics and fans alike praised Kamakawiwoʻole’s rendition for its emotional depth and simplicity. The song’s ability to evoke a sense of peace and nostalgia made it a favorite for various occasions, from weddings and celebrations to moments of reflection and relaxation.

Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover also played a significant role in popularizing Hawaiian music outside of Hawaii. His unique style and ability to blend traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences helped bring Hawaiian music to a broader audience. The song’s success contributed to a renewed interest in Hawaiian culture and music, and Kamakawiwoʻole became an ambassador for Hawaiian music on the global stage.

Legacy

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” remains one of the most beloved and enduring versions of the classic song. Its success is a testament to Kamakawiwoʻole’s talent and his ability to create music that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level.

Kamakawiwoʻole’s legacy is firmly established in the annals of music history, and his version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” continues to be a symbol of hope, beauty, and the spirit of Hawaii. The song’s timeless appeal and emotional impact ensure that it remains a cherished piece of music that transcends generations and cultural boundaries.

Conclusion

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is a remarkable example of how a classic song can be reimagined and infused with new meaning. Kamakawiwoʻole’s unique arrangement, characterized by his soulful voice and ukulele accompaniment, offers a fresh and poignant interpretation of the beloved tune. The song’s enduring popularity and impact on both Hawaiian music and popular culture underscore its significance and the lasting legacy of Kamakawiwoʻole’s artistry. Through his rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Kamakawiwoʻole has created a timeless piece of music that continues to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners around the world.

Lyrics:

Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh
Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
And the dreams that you dream of
Once in a lullaby
Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly
And the dreams that you dream of
Dreams really do come true
Someday, I wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where trouble melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney top
That’s where you’ll find me
Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly
And the dreams that you dare to
Oh why, oh why can’t I?
Well, I see trees of green and red roses too
I’ll watch them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Well, I see skies of blue and I see clouds of white
And the brightness of day
I like the dark
And I think to myself what a wonderful world
The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky
And also on the faces of people passing by
I see friends shaking hands saying
How do you do?
They’re really saying I, I love you
I hear babies cry and I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more then we’ll know
And I think to myself what a wonderful world
World
Someday I wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where trouble melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney top
That’s where you’ll find me
Oh, somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
And the dreams that you dare to
Why oh, why can’t I?
Ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh