WHAT A VOICE! First Time Hearing Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole - Somewhere Over The Rainbow Reaction!

[@jenniferewing4504]

What a TREASURE he was ! RIP

[@jhawk1912]

This version always gets me emotional. Not many things do. I love it.

[@amberclark5533]

This is our happy song. My daughter walked out of the church after her wedding vows to this. It was my sister's chemo song. It was playing when my niece was born. ❤❤

[@kelleewolfe2834]

Singing about this guy just makes you smile. You can tell he had a calm and gentle soul.

[@sandy2953]

I always get choked up when I see the end and his funeral to be that well loved

[@vincejaramillo1271]

This version is so beautiful it always makes me tear up.

[@xScooterAZx]

Judy Garland first sang "Over the Rainbow" in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, in which she played Dorothy Gale. Garland recorded the song on October 7, 1938, and a studio version was released in September 1939. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became Garland's signature song.

[@capuetxca]

What a voice. You got it right, soothing and relaxing. His music always brings a mental peace.

[@bartondonnelly5293]

The original ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ was by Judy Garland from the 1939 film ‘The Wizard of Oz’. I first heard part of this version (Israel’s) in an American TV ad about a destination.

[@modawg1111]

Brother Iz is our icon here in Hawaii, especially here on the West Side Oahu. We love & miss him. We will always play his music with choke respect @ our parties.🤗😎🤩❤🙏✌️🤙

[@mwflanagan1]

I’ve always loved his ‘chim-a-ney tops’. What a beautiful tribute to him, with all the support shown by his family/supporters.

[@damonbryan7232]

Voice of a angle Heart bigger than the universe. IZ LIVES

[@dagmar.6954]

Such a beautiful version of this song. So many people have recorded it over the years but I feel this is one of the best. Sadly Israel IZ Kamakawiwoʻole died at the age of 38 in 1997. "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" was written for the 1939 film "The Wizard Of Oz" & was sung by actress Judy Garland.

[@MoMoMyPup10]

This is unique and special all on its own because of the tempo and the beautiful man who sung it, but Judy is the first, the last, my everything, when it comes to this song. But this deserves its own place in the HOF "Over the Rainbow" recordings -- it's just that good.

[@larrywright3132]

He had an older brother who died at an early age as well, from the same cause I believe

[@steveb1148]

I was CRINGING when you guys didn’t know that the OG for “Somewhere over the Rainbow “ is Judy Garland from The wizard of Oz. I’m definitely too old….. lol 😊

[@mahatmakane1946]

Driving along the coast highway a long time ago, heard this song -- a peak moment never forgotten. God Bless Iz!

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

Don't worry,, I cry every time I see the end of this video. Wouldn't we all want this celebration at the end of our life?

[@gabreel8112]

RIP Bruddah IZ.

[@Zentrix-24]

Rip ....a beautiful voice

[@JudeAussie]

My favourite version of this song. Beautiful soul gone way too soon. 💔😢

[@joannerichards1750]

"Over the Rainbow", also known as "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", is a ballad by Harold Arlen with lyrics by Yip Harburg. It was written for the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, in which it was sung by actress Judy Garland in her starring role as Dorothy Gale. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became Garland's signature song. - Wikipedia

[@user-mg5mv2tn8q]

For the longest time people tried to pressure Garland's daughter Lisa Minnelli to record her own version of the song. She always politely declined, saying "It's been sung."

[@user-mg5mv2tn8q]

Liza, not Lisa. That's autocorrect for you.

[@JCourts2k23]

First time i heard this was in the movie 50 First Dates with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, instantly added it to my music library.

[@richiegangemi5258]

I believe the original is sung by Judy Garland from the Wizard of Oz..1939

[@josephmallard9053]

IZ also does a hauntingly beautiful cover of "Wind beneath my Wings."

[@kylesummers1565]

Beautiful Soul! Peace, Love!!

[@anthonysteinberg4853]

There is a version that combines Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Wonderful World. In fact I've never heard this version. You HAVE to check out the combo version. I think it's even MORE powerful. RIP IZ. You were a national treasure!

[@kimzwolinski9919]

❤spreading his ashes at the end got me 😢💔❤️

[@John_Locke_108]

When I was in Maui for my honeymoon, back in '09, the radio station played this song once every hour. Never grew tired of it and everytime I hear it, I think of that magical time.

[@steveb1148]

It definitely captures the chill vibe of Hawaii

[@pjg58x]

I was in Maui in 2002 for my honeymoon. While there I bought the CD Facing Future which has this song. A Hawaiian friend had played it for me once so I was familiar with IZ

[@melissacaddell2604]

This version is by far my favorite. I love his voice. It chokes me up every time.

[@MarcEdmunds-n4g]

my favorite version of this song

[@paulrt3]

He did this in one take at 3:00 am! IZ was popular in Hawaii before he did this song. It is so touching them showing the spreading of his ashes at the end.

[@patriciaalvareztostado8170]

Sweet version of this classic, Love that in his funeral even that is sad, the people are said good bye to IZ with smiles

[@T-ShirtMagic]

Iconic Classic

[@ColleenCarr-l9w]

This is my favourite of this song, Issy had such a lovely voice…

[@CynthiaCowan-z1n]

I cry listening to him.

[@silversagerae6353]

Imo this version and another to check out are by far the best ever covets of this song. Eva Cassidy is the other, she may be one of the most underappreciated talents. One of the purest and strongest voices and a hidden gem to most.

[@schuylersouthwell2554]

I first heard this on the TV series "ER", when Dr. Mark Green (Anthony Edwards) was dying of brain cancer - his daughter gives him a walkman of this playing and I think his character died listening to it. Not a bad way to fade out.

[@belvagurr403]

Judy Garland’s WIZARD OF OZ version is the original song.

[@blair7747]

This version of Over the Rainbow by IZ is part of my heart. We heard it so often on our visits to Hawaii, and it is so special to us and reminds us of the beautiful people who live in Aloha! Thank you for sharing it❤️!

[@fcorso1313]

Everyone always goes to this song when they discover Iz for the first time. And I understand why, it is amazing. I grew up In Hawa'ii and knew Iz all thru school. He was not only and amazing musician, He was the voice of the people here in the Aloha State. So many Sunday afternoons spent in the parks by the beach. And So many time's Iz set and played just for the sheer gladness of it all. Please check this out, get a better feeling about who he was, what he meant to us and just the joy of listening to him sing. He was our Star Of Gladness. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYjOfHSHrcplo8U

[@kawika55555]

Braddah IZ is loved and cherished in Hawaii. He was and still is Hawaii. There is so much to be said about IZ, but I would suggest looking up his Wikipedia page as a start. I'm born & raised in Hawaii and even I learned a few more facts about IZ after reading his Wikipedia info. ❤

[@belvagurr403]

Louis Armstrong wrote WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD, Iz takes it to a whole new dimension!!! Well worth listening to!!!

[@garyzink1927]

I've enjoyed watching you two for quite awhile. But now after losing my mom and brother in the last month this song really tugs at my heart. Great song, great singer, rip! Merry Christmas Canada and USA. Miss you mom and Mike! Peace from Northern Michigan.

[@jenniferandrews1917]

Judy Garland sang this in Wizard of Oz.

[@doughaviland1729]

This song was the outro from the movie MEET JOE BLACK. Just PERFECTION!❤😂

[@cschwad559]

Uplifting!

[@ThistleAndSea]

There is a medley of Over The Rainbow and What A Wonderful World that Iz did which is lovely. You should check that out if you get a chance, or any of his other wonderful songs. This is an official video made celebrating his funeral using only Over The Rainbow. Iz was a mega star in Hawaii and around the globe even when he was alive, and was celebrated as a beloved artist when he passed. Thanks for sharing his music.

[@RealDiehl99]

Same here. It's my favorite recording of the song. Although the video's production is very basic from a technical standpoint, there is an unmistakable feeling of nostalgia throughout that is quite moving. A great tribute!

[@vernek465]

Hi Phil & Sam, thank you for the wonderful review of brother “IZ”. Iz was truly a gentle giant and he will always be remembered and loved. I will send you an email message later to further show my appreciation of your channel. Keep up the good work…. Verne

[@belvagurr403]

IZ born May 20, 1959 - died June 27, 1997 at 38 years old. He was 6’2” but heavily overweight, on one of his albums he discusses his father dying from being overweight and didn’t want the same thing for himself.

[@J_Drix]

i forget what grade it was, but my class sang Israel's version for the spring concert. Back then I didn't think anything of it other than it sounds good and pleasant - a memory to share with my classmates. I think it's the same for others that came back to this song at an older age - you start to hear and feel the beauty behind what Iz did in this performance. He was meant to share his cover with the world.

[@floridaboy6051]

Only with a voice like that can you make such a powerful recording with only one instrument, especially using only the ukulele.

[@Arnie63]

This version along with Eva Cassidy's version never fail to make me cry

[@mikelbrett1]

In a documentary I saw about Iz a few years ago it said he called the owner of the studio at like 3 am and said he wanted to record this. They met and he recorded it in one take.

[@marshallbrandt1334]

The ukulele he is playing was made by Martin guitar. After this video they put out an Iz special edition ukulele.

[@leeyaferguson9019]

🙏IZ💔😪

[@paulocarvalho6480]

Hi, Phil and Sam. In case you don't know, the world famous Ukulele is originally a Portuguese instrument called Cavaquinho. It's used nationwide but is used a lot more in north Portugal in folklore groups.

[@pjg58x]

I also recommend the song Hawaii 78 from the same Facing Future album, a beautiful and sad song.

[@rayvanhorn1534]

What a beautiful version, so unique & soul-stirring. Iz was such a talented guy & gave us a timeless piece of heartfelt music. (Ok, you guys must listen to Judy Garland’s version from “The Wizard of Oz”…her voice is simply amazing. Louis Armstrong, his timeless “What a Wonderful World “…both merged to create this beautiful rendition by Iz. )

[@alejandrobojorquez6181]

MAI YAMANE - "" Wave "" (Do It Again) 1980 SMOOTH JAZZ / R&B SOUL , CITY POP // Also Her AMAZING SOFT ROCK CLASSIC, "" Tasogare -1980 "" a True Rock Masterpiece of / Soft Rock / City Pop /R&B / Soul.. Her Voice reminds of Ivonne Elliman , so soft and soothingly sweet + Incredible Guitar play Bass & Drums other musical elements too. Highly Highly recommend both songs they're FANTASTIC!! and Beautiful 🎸 🎹

[@WillardWooten]

Being 72 I'm a big Judy Garland fan growing up to OZ and still prefer hers but you can not taking anything away from Israel doing this song 2nd favorite but cry still because I knew he past and the end gets me everytime .

[@EdwardMason-q3z]

This cover is all over youtube. To me it is hard to beat Judy Garland.

[@DigDoug33056]

You should check out his version somewhere over the rainbow/its a wonderful world mix

[@jerrybutler1336]

he was a sweet person as well laid in state at the state capitol

[@susanworkman529]

IZ 's version of the original is so beautiful and uplifting. .I love this version probably better than any other version except the original by Judy. You have to do the original by Judy Garland. Its a classic . You should never do covers of songs without doing the original.

[@robertVirtue-mc2yw]

I have a Cd of his. Do his version of Hawai'i Aloha done in Hawaiian. Also, I love Hawai'i Aloha Playing across Hawai'i / Playing for Change. the scenery is beautiful. Hawaiian singers, musicians and school children

[@757optim]

As a way to hear Judy Garland sing this song, watch the iconic 1939 movie, "The Wizard Of Oz". Judy was 16.

[@ralphwillis1126]

So beautiful. The best version ever. Love you guys.

[@Joemensa]

You really need to check out anything from “Leonid and Friends” a Russian group who travel the world performing near perfect covers for Chicago, Earth, Wind and Fire, the Carpenters. Also you should count yourself among the rare few who have done first reactions to Yani’s song “Love Is All” …incredible vocals.

[@GrandmaShirley-op4jm]

He was an amazing singer. Iam Tongi is following in his footsteps. He won american idol last year I think. Check him out please.

[@Eowyn187]

Oh wow. What a beauty. I knew y'all would love it. It's on the soundtrack of a top ten movie of mine... "Meet Joe Black". (Thomas Newman composed the rest of the score) Edited 2:08 "It's A Wonderful World" , stunning instrumental, is also a big part of that movie. Ironic that you mentioned the two together. Maybe it's from Meet Joe Black. 🤔

[@vkaPAUL]

you should try the "Piano Guys" version just as good!!!

[@jamesdamiano8894]

He also does a nice version of What A Wonderful World. Bring plenty of money if you go to Hawaii.

[@TraciPearson-ok2tr]

I was told that such physical size, in traditional Hawaiian culture, is a sign of power and status and isn't (or wasn't) considered "bad" at all. Of course, they probably didn't know about the health problems associated with such extra weight.

[@nickschnider9191]

I plead ignorance, but to me, this is the only version of the song. Please allow my bliss.

[@JamesInWisconsin]

Please review Iam Tongi, the recent American Idol winner, at his first audition. Bring tissues. You will cry.

[@bowtiefidenine]

RIP😢

[@blainebourg2792]

KAMAKA VIVO OLAE lol much love

[@markhodge7]

Aloha aina ❤

[@jeffbeaver4419]

I read somewhere that he recorded this song in one take.

[@tomherd34]

Check out White Sandy Beaches. It's beautiful

[@radone5896]

For your history videos you may want to watch a KZbin video about the illegal takeover of Hawaii.

[@markhodge7]

@@radone5896 Eye opener! A must.

[@user-mg5mv2tn8q]

ka-MAH-ka wee-wo OH-lay

[@scottluvisi9941]

Please check out Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Old City Bar. It is a wonderful Christmas concert song.

[@williamwilson9283]

🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@mangelwurzel]

How to Pronounce Israel Kamakawiwo'ole? kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYmbc6B5eZJsnbM And, how to pronounce "ukulele" kzbin.info/www/bejne/iovZd4ukrZeggKs

[@jowbloe3673]

The Pixar video *Lava* was partially inspired by this song, and the appearance of the main 'character' is also partially modeled after IZ. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5mXlYeCf56kb9E

[@jenniferewing4504]

That was his funeral where they released his ashes.

[@adamfigueroa8208]

Over the rainbow is Judy garland no one can sing it like her.

[@radone5896]

Unmatched gorgeous overtones!

[@andywright3450]

Hi guys can you do a request for me my birthday next week can you play carole king song called too late please thanks guys

[@kevinminne1460]

Give me Judy Garland's , the original any day. This version is just bad.

[@chrislind57]

izee

[@misadventuresofmorgan]

Yeah, yeah what’s really funny is when you realize it’s not even a ukulele but a full-size guitar…😳😂😎

[@misadventuresofmorgan]

One of the EIGHT islands of Hawaii…