Beyond The Rainbow Documentary about Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

In November 1993, “Facing Future” was released.
It turned Israel Kamakawiwo’ole from a favorite Hawaii musician to an artist on the world stage.
A quarter century later - and 21 years after his untimely death at the age of 38 - IZ’s popularity has only grown.
To mark 25 years since the release of “Facing Future,” the most successful Hawaii album of all time, HNN compiled a special series and digital documentary that looked at IZ’s life and his legacy.

[@gulfgypsy]

Izzy was proof that sometimes heaven loans us an angel to remind us of how precious and special life is. This world was made brighter for Izzy being part of it. Mortal life ends but the spirit is eternal. Nothing will ever dim the light that is his spirit.

[@ywera]

Beautifully said x

[@sharonstone7796]

True

[@benicio1967]

Thank you so much for your thoughtful words. That was so beautiful. 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@Chet_Brinkley]

I had come and gone before he was born but there were many Hawaiian singers / artists before him who were ONO ! They should be honored ! I don't hear Kui Lee's name mentioned hardly at all !!

[@Chet_Brinkley]

@Derrick Bridges Heavens loving angels ..?

[@andrewgroberg8844]

Sometimes this world is blessed with a beautiful soul unlike any other. Rest in peace brother. Thank for the inspiration.

[@choux8372]

I don't know when, but I just had the sudden urge to listen to his song, "somewhere over the rainbow", and immediately, I was hit with so much emotion. I've been having a hard time lately and suppose I just needed something to bring me peace.

[@sunnyskies4628]

I remember when I was little and I would hear Judy Garland sing, “somewhere over the rainbow,” it always made me sad and lonely. But when I heard Israel sing it, it was the first time I felt beauty, peace and love. I am so thankful to hear such a beautiful voice come from such a beautiful man. It truly is his song.

[@augustaugust7667]

Yes♡♡♡♡

[@mamalinda7392]

You said it ! 😄❤

[@anthonybalestrieri1035]

Said so well

[@gracechildchesca9046]

Exactly

[@PierreaSweedieCat]

Judy, Satch, Izzi. They own this song.

[@Kurt-rg8jq]

Can't explain how crazy it is for me to be part Hawaiin & grow up public school Hawaii, go to LA for work experience, marry a Mexican wife, and be driving deep in Mexico while my Mexican wife randomly plays Over the Rainbow by Iz and my Mexican wife not truly knowing the history/importance of this song & singing it in her Mexican accent while my little son is happy in the backseat calm & peaceful. Brahdah Iz was one of a kind & still creating magical moments until this day; what a legend.

[@malama8981]

Grew up with Israel and his brother Skippy in east Honolulu. He was also a good athlete (baseball/football) too as a kid. We never knew about his music gifts until an elementary school talent show. Glad to see his story and legacy lives on...Aloha.

[@ozzyeats6461]

I cried so much when I first heard his singing and am crying now seeing this documentary. His name, image and voice should be preserved for all time. Hurry up and put a statue or monument to him in his homeland. Thanks Iz for humbly reminding us of our humanity !!!!

[@anthonybalestrieri1035]

This man deserves a statue

[@fireflymiesumae]

@@hp777ivy Cool

[@EricJh21690]

I believe they did unveil a statue of him years ago in the early 00s like 03 or 04

[@colleenwoodland4574]

His voice is beyond beautiful!Nov.1,2022

[@Mikej1592]

Same, it took me a while till I could listen without tearing up. I still get overwhelmed with emotion if I try to sing along with it. I often wonder if I have been so love deprived my whole life that overwhelming love and kindness that reverberates from IZ's voice, from his very soul. His singing is like a warm loving Aloha filled hug for the soul.

[@BWowed]

The world needs more people like him.

[@zulimatristancho5551]

What a beautiful ending of him singing on the beach....the last shot....wow........greeting sent to Heaven for you, Iz!!!! Thank you for leaving the world your beautiful gift of music!

[@maryvillesvik9070]

And in last shot he does the kama'aina joke:"shark!"

[@QZahmis]

I discovered Israel long after his passing. My daughter moved to the big island and when she came home, she blessed us with our1st grandson who is 1/2 Hawaiian and also brought the Hawaiian culture and Israel's music. Facing Future is my favorite album and I've had it in my car on/off for 10 yrs....what a beautiful soul.... and lovely people.... when I think of them .. the first word that comes to mind is Love...... Israel is singing with the angels.... ~~ Love from Lakeside ~~ Phoebe

[@alcapirobi2915]

thanks to google for Having Israel on the Google homepage & leading me here to learn about this Awesome man!!! This is the stuff we should learn in school!

[@SallyCat84]

Well said. I agree.

[@nsum2885]

He was a great guy but learning about him in school wouldn’t be useful

[@jonahanthony266]

Same thing here

[@kayitareeddy6855]

why should we learn this in schools?

[@leonora450]

I just searched for him.. what a golden voice he had but he’s gone. I’m in tears watching this video. 🙏

[@darrylpitt6534]

To me Over The Rainbow is the most beautiful song ever written. I tear up listening to it every time.

[@nashvilleslim]

I feel ya, only his version though.

[@davidkerns4349]

Thought I was the only one, I've shed tears to this song more times then I can count

[@AfricanGirl]

what is it about? it's nice

[@Eli_skips]

First time ever listening to this and had uncontrollable tears out of no where. A very pure soul.

[@sandramorey2529]

The great songwriting team of Yip Harborg (lyricist) & Harold Arlen, who took the melody from an old Yiddish song, slowed it down &, voila,-saved the movie from obscurity in 1939, composed this song for Judy Garland to sing in The Wizard of Oz. It was her signature song & it belonged totally to her until Iz's version came out. In my opinion both versions are magnificent and only in the US is it a competition. Yip was later blacklisted for his political ideas. He was a socialist and stood up for the working man & woman.

[@silviabrosien2806]

He was an angel he touched everyone's heart

[@dorotheashuster6945]

I will always remember Judy Garland singing "Over the Rainbow" and I love her rendition. I will also always love Israel's version. Both versions are beautiful! God bless Israel's family! Aloha!!!!

[@hankman1023]

He’s a legend! Has it been over 25 years ago? Wow! Great musician!

[@Mark_Dyer1]

I have heard the opening notes of the medley, 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' so often (frequently accompanying documetaries on the South Sea Islands) but had no idea who had this soft, angelic, voice. Then, a few nights ago, a BBC Radio 4 Extra programme introduced me to Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, and his medley of songs. He may have died some years ago; but I hope his soul is at rest. This is such a beautiful documentary, about a wonderful man. Thank you for posting it.

[@randolfo1265]

Such a short life for a beautiful soul; His voice, eye wateringly good, no exaggerating.

[@cluelessred2254]

Man I can't wait to see him in paradise...I love him so much he will always be in our hearts. "Don't cry because it's gone, cry because it happened" - Kaelin Wright

[@cherylkruisheer3267]

Thank you Kaelin. Absolutely we were blessed.

[@celtictraditions3814]

A true singer!! The most beautiful rendition of this song ever!! Issy the hero.

[@VMCHANCE]

IZ is definitely a angel most definitely I'm a 46 year old man from Texas I have to say 100 percent I love his song performance of somewhere over the rainbow and I could tell the strong energy IZ put off he's most definitely a true angel sent by God I thank God for the loan of IZ and I send thoughts and prayers to his entire family and friends and Hawaiian family

[@mybraineatseverything7404]

I'm not Hawaiian, but I've had a lifelong love of The Islands and their people. This album is a part of my heart. I miss you, Iz. 😥

[@k0n0zz]

feel the same dude

[@BlazeOs_]

Yes

[@franditri7185]

Me 3!

[@IsmailKhan-pn2ld]

What a beautiful voice, the soul inside him reflected in his songs, clear, pristine and beautiful. I am sure wherever he is, he is at peace somewhere over the rainbow.

[@dalalholmin4782]

Beautiful song it makes me happy when I listen to it and also reminds me of The Beautiful times I spent in Hawaii 💚💛💚🌴🧜‍♀️

[@thenobullshtchannel8768]

The world needs more people like Him.. RIP 🌺❤️🌹

[@GreenRevolution4]

Having lived in Hawaii as a boy, I really missed hearing Authentic Hawaiin Music. the Ukulele may be a small instrument, but the sound is Gigantic especially when played by a Gentle Giant like IZ.

[@Rick-tt6yq]

Jan 26/23 and I am from Canada and currently on vacation to north Kohala region. I first heard Izzy on YT many years ago and fell in love with the music and spirit of it all. I am thrilled to be here now, for just a short while, but this video is a great reminder of the talent this man had and how his music has touched people from around the world. May he rest in peace.

[@maryvillesvik9070]

Kohala is also full of spirits. I went to Parker school there...now i sit in my house in France, watched this video. Amazing.

[@jakobzzz3857]

My dad died in 2011 and this song was played at his funeral, so for me this song gives me everything.

[@ernie6226]

my teacher from elementary school died and she would always play this song and everytime i hear this song it makes me think about her and all my elementary memories

[@skunkman9815]

I’m sorry to hear that

[@GulfIslandRock]

❤ wonderful . It was our wedding song on Maui 🌴

[@SufganiyotSecurity88]

I know not everyone shares the same views as I but I am so glad he gave his heart to Jesus before he died!

[@politereminder6284]

What sorcery is this? I'm crying and I only heard of this man today. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@elgenetiamzon1062]

As amazing as "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" is, I belueve that his rendition of "Kaleohano" is more impactful. His last live performance of the song was probably the most memorable performance in all of Hawaii's history. That night the Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau were reunited on stage for the last time and it wasn't even planned.

[@anthonybalestrieri1035]

I hope when my time comes I can be where IZ is. In a dimension of pure tranquillity love & happiness

[@mchrysogelos7623]

You do not have to hope. It can be for sure. You know he was a Christian? He lives forever with Jesus in Paradise! You can too. You have only to go to Jesus and accept him as God's son and our Savior who died so that WE might live forever in Paradise with Him. Then go, learn more about Him and spread His Good Word so that others may live forever too!

[@dannabrisbane8646]

Lost my 20 years young son 💔 😢 July 20th 2016. I found IZ's music and it brings me comfort. IZ is still touching people he never met. He lives on. His spirit lives on through his music. Sending and receiving love.

[@Fiawordweaver]

Danna Brisbane my brother and I lived in Kula and me Mahawao. He was 71 when he passed the day after his birthday July 10th, 2016. Izzy brings me comfort too. I pray that your son walks with Izzy and my brother Denny. I pray that your heart of memories bring you comfort. I am a mother of two. The ache in your heart is as big as the love for your son. God’s blessings upon you and all of your family and friends. Thank you for sharing.

[@factsoverfiction7826]

My heart hears your loss ...

[@pamlyles8905]

I know all too well how it hurts to lose a son. My son died in 2003 , he was 33.

[@augustaugust7667]

♡♡ Sorry for your loss♡♡♡ 🤗👩‍👦

[@mamalinda7392]

I lost my oldest son in July 13th,1986..Im so sorry. I know your pain.

[@nacmegfeegle2310]

I first heard Iz at the end of the Movie Finding Forester in 2000. I was deeply, completely, instantly connected, I waited to the very end credits to see who it was, then went out and found every single thing he ever recorded. I have listed to him so much that even though I am not remotely Hawaiian I can sing along with almost every song in Hawaiian (well sort of :>) He is, and always will be the best musician I have ever heard of, for his music, his message, and his spirit. I still cry for him as if he was my own brother, I can't explain it because I have never felt this way about anyone.

[@danioneill1799]

They used this in the episode of ER when Boomer dies. His daughter places headphones on him and starts a cassette recording which plays the song. There are flashbacks of his life and all the significant moments in his life.

[@fanofallaroundaudreyandjus544]

He will be remembered for his songs for decades. I wish the gods would have let him live longer they took him to soon.

[@sheepyleepy..2806]

people like that in their harts dont really live too long / long at all

[@shahmahfuz8789]

Too bad his name is after a war criminal regime !

[@millieguerra3446]

Shah Mahfuz I don’t agree

[@AfricanGirl]

@@sheepyleepy..2806 y u say that?

[@AfricanGirl]

@Jacob Flores yeah. I know just Ssd

[@salmonkill7]

A beautiful Man, A beautiful Voice, and a beautiful Soul!! We are so LUCKY TO HAVE IZ for along as we had him!! IZ was a BLESSING FROM GOD!!

[@billc2122]

Moved to Hawaii in 2003 for work. Heard Iz singing Mauai Hawaiian Supa Man and was sold on all his music. Was blessed to meet so many Hawaiian people who became ohana. Iz is the best and most beautiful voice. Love ALL HIS music. Sadly had to leave in 2005 due to my wife's illness. Awaiting meeting da IZ in the presence of the LORD. His song In This Life tells me he is there.

[@martybrevarro8501]

Such a beautiful man with a beautiful voice and soul. No matter how many times I hear him sing Over the Rainbow, I cry.

[@Villain_in_Glasses]

IZ was the kinda guy who would just sit defiant to the end on the deck of a sinking ship, playing music, just to keep everyones spirits up. What a guy.

[@IbraZ1234]

Like brook in one pice manga 🦋🦋

[@Villain_in_Glasses]

@@IbraZ1234 I genuinely didn't even think of the comparison at the time but yeh, pretty much.

[@carolewilson1311]

I just come out of hospital had breakdown if only I discovered this guy before I would never ended up in that hole...His voice done more for me than team of doctors and nurses trained by Gestapo. Thank you IZ wherever you are back here or heaven

[@davidleblanc7565]

Native American proverb say's there is no death it only looks that way......I was born a year before in 1958.....I moment I heard this song over the rainbow.....I felt something like I lost my breath...like God was telling me something about this Soul was singing.....God spoke to my heart and said I'll tell you when it's time.....13yrs later not untill Dec 2021 today God explained it all to me.... Through his videos on KZbin.....we will meet one day My Friend...... With over 1 Billion views.....he fulfilled his purpose on earth......that's why he had all these songs in his head that he had to get out not sleeping.......sitting in a chair for 4hours God gave him the Entergy he needed..,he knew he was dying..,but I love y'all southern expression....gave him a party for the funeral.....very wise way to look at death not be scared of it. embrace it.like I think he did.....

[@charlieh115]

Beautiful. My mom used to sing that song to me when I was little. She’s no longer with us either, so this brings back some heartfelt memories.

[@kennethearlwigglesworth6034]

My sister, sang Over the rainbow bout a month before her passing , so it is bringing tears of reverence of all those people who played with IZ

[@beltorhamatich1496]

Мне 58лет и я случайно услышал и увидел клип "вслед за радугой". Я потрясён. Ничего подобного до сих пор я не слышал. IZ разбудил в моей душе самые сокровенные, самые сентиментальные струны. Безмерно жаль, что его жизнь была так коротка, но надеюсь, что Бог забрал его к себе потому, что он завершил свою миссию на земле. Желаю счастья всем родным Израеля Камакавивооле и всем, кому стал дорог этот человек и его творчество! Надеюсь, что ему в мире душ намного лучше, чем было на земле. Да удостоится он божественного света!

[@NinaNina-ry8fn]

He had a beautiful, heavenly voice. 💕💛💕💛

[@teejay8910]

Hello All I'm thankful to the persons who liked my comment... I'm greatful to Hawaii News for a marvelous broadcast.. Stay safe be happy 🤗 Sincerely Tee Jay

[@enticeman28]

Iz voice is like a gateway from the spirit world and the loves just comes thru.

[@nancelee3535]

I still cry when I hear Hawaii 78. He was never alive when I found his music, but he lives on through it. Mahalo Iz

[@_wenn3D.]

♥️ Hawaii 78♥️

[@megatran1984]

Amazing, something about his voice trigger one of my emotion which I can't described ,it's a happy feeling, like sad and joy at the same time. Its feeling..it's like all the hate inside me is leaving my heart and soul.. thanks IZ R.I.P BROTHER

[@josef9001]

Well said without explaining it

[@isipbejarl5118]

6 minutes into this documentary and I'm tearing up already. He had such beautiful life and legacy... Beautiful voice, brought peace in me today.

[@timothycarmichael3168]

Damn, I wish I would have found his music sooner than I did. I was crying at 18:00 on and I don’t speak the language. His most famous song is just an unbelievable rendition of over the rainbow.

[@Mr40tt]

This beautiful man among men was blessed in a way that is uncommon to most any other person. One thing that stands out, is that he, like many other very powerful people had a circumstance of some type that caused them to suffer. Their greatness was magnified beyond their seemingly adverse situation. When I first listened to Israel sing, something inside of me said there was something more powerful behind that voice that I heard, and I believe that to this day!

[@MJisKING447]

I cried 9 times while watching this video. His voice is so unique. So peaceful.

[@PumpkinDD420]

Such a beautiful person. The first time I heard his song is when my second oldest decided to be a father and his girlfriend born and raised in Hawaii and even spoke the language. My son played IZ CD and it was so beautiful and peaceful. I loved it. He will be missed. I dont even know him but he touched my heart and soul with the song " Over the Rainbow", it was so alive. omg! love it.

[@YaYa-ke1zr]

I discovered Iz by accident. ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’ was used on a TV show... and I had to know who sang it. It hypnotized me. Took me a week to find the song and buy it. I’m just now learning how good of a human being he was in addition to that amazing voice. The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering... Iz will live forever!

[@maychong4514]

My 23 y.o dotter, practises her ukulele every evening with this song 🥰 This song is such a classic, that will outlive all of us

[@elvirastokes1335]

My dad was a great ukulele player and at same time can sing 🎶 how I wish he still alive I would have ask him to sing over the rainbow with his ukulele , I hope up there 👆🙏 they will meet 🌺❤️🙏🎶

[@videoinspectionsplus]

Our first trip to Hawai'i was in 2000 to the Island of Maui. We discovered IZ on that trip and fell in love with his music. I have at least 10 of his CD's and his music never gets old. Our youngest son just spent 2 years in Hawai'i on all of the islands except Molokai on a Mission. with the church. Mahalo nui loa for putting together this wonderful documentary! I have had the great fortune to have met several of the people featured in the video and they are all wonderful people! Aloha, Malama Pono!

[@cherryllhill477]

Oh my goodness. Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Iz is so beautiful. I just came across his music 1 1/2 years ago. We would play his songs for our kids at work. I still cry...

[@calmada823]

I'm only sorry that I did not know about him when he was alive, and even sorrier that I never got to meet him in person. He's Hawaii's patron saint!

[@nancycollins3448]

Happy 61st Birthday IZ Rest in Peace. You are loved........

[@goddessdana7316]

My grandmother would listen to his music before going to bed and when I spend nights over at her house she would play it to help me sleep too. He really has a beautiful and soulful voice.

[@MysteryPotatoMan]

The song 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' has helped me insanely with my depression. I had a lot of difficulties falling asleep, but once i tried to use that song to fall asleep with, and i've been using it ever since. I absolutely love his music and the calmness it brings. I wish i was able to hear his music live, or at least feel even closer to it. From all the songs i've ever listened to, Somewhere Over the Rainbow is by far the best song i've ever heard. It will always stay special to me

[@vickischoonover4923]

His music brings so much peace.

[@RYDENROAM72]

He will always be missed and ALWAYS REMEMBERED. I live in Waianae and ever June I always hear Semi’s driving by flags waiving into the WEST SIDE air with Braddah IZ and Hawaiian flags in his memorial. Mahalo Braddah IZ from Hawaii to all the way to Afghanistan 🇦🇫 you have always been with me. With other musicians Makaha Sons of Hawaii, Genoa Keawe, Gabby “Pops” Pahinui etc.

[@diveaner777]

ANGELIC VOICE...HIS VOICE IS LIKE A CURE FOR SOMEONE IN PAIN. HIS "OVER THE RAINBOW" version IS MY TOP FAVORITE SONG OF ALL TIME.

[@lolaost9559]

His voice was like chocolate velvet... just beautiful, uplifting and full of energy! RIP

[@brremsilverte.9022]

Why are you comparing a food to a sound?

[@normaaustin845]

In his passing we have lost an iconic figure. I will never see another rainbow without remembering IZ. My heart aches to date over his passing. He will always be in my

[@normaaustin845]

Heart

[@theweirdsistersoracle2]

This is the best version of this song. I hope he's found that rainbow.

[@babylowen]

doesn't matter how many times I hear it, I always cry at this song

[@tinaberger485]

My heart is so full its bursting. I love this man and cry every stinkin time I hear his music. Fly high brother, love you!

[@gabrielavelazquez8526]

Here I am, crying too😢

[@patfromlogan]

so true...

[@rockarawatkins1153]

His music gave us a slice of heaven here in earth and Gods love flows through each of his songs! Amazing! Beautiful! RIP

[@CarolSheppard-itsablingting]

I want to move to Hawai’i. I would like somewhere over the rainbow played at my funeral

[@andrewparks6943]

His voice is so beautiful, brings tears to my eyes.

[@sandramorey2529]

This documentary was lovely. I will never forget the time when Iz came to the SF Bay Area. It was a couple of years before he passed and he brought a bunch of Hawaiian kids with him. There was no publicity but just hearing that he was going to be at the Marin Civic Center on a Sunday afternoon, brought out hundreds of people and the lines wrapped the building a couple of times. I remember the big beach ball being passed around the audience & people signing it and passing it on. The kids Iz brought were terribly confused by the venue's food stand. They thought the hostess Twinkies were spam musubi and couldn't find anything to eat. We felt so honored to be able to see him. We had seen him many times on Big Island & O'ahu, but this was a gift to the diaspora. & we knew it.

[@sophiar6996]

The voice of an angel. Thank you for the music IZ! R.I.P. brother

[@marcelsimard1555]

My daughter played some where over the rainbow for me on her phone 2 years ago. WOW, tear up when I hear it.

[@sophiar6996]

@@marcelsimard1555 aww ♥

[@teejay8910]

Israel 🙏🏽 Your voice is Angelic it's a cure for my depression.. I thank you 🙏🏽 Rest In Heaven 🙏🏽 Israel

[@lisalamorey3453]

Tee Jay Blessings to you Tee Jay. Reach out for help if you need it, ok? The world needs you!

[@teejay8910]

@@lisalamorey3453 Good morning 🌞 Lisa Lamorey.. I thank you for your kindness ❤️ Sincerely Tee Jay 🙏🏽

[@markhill9912]

Tee Jay, I go through depression too, you're not alone. Please reach out, you're important! I pray for healing in your life...

[@mamalinda7392]

Rest easy dear one. I know you're singing in Heaven is even more beautiful. I pray I will see you there one day. Thank you for spreading the love around. ❤🙏😪

[@anthonybalestrieri1035]

I heard Hawaii 78 getting a root canal at the dentist I got so into the song I forgot where I was and had the song stuck in my head for days after. So happy I found what song it was and found Iz. Amazing how life works

[@mdmadyun]

Such a beautiful voice. Hauʻoli Lā Hānau. Rest easy.

[@sweedethbrown9677]

I love his version of somewhere over the rainbow. His velvet voice makes the song have a long life. He's so nice. A big huggy bear.

[@arniecorreia4107]

Born in Georgia, but my dna says I am part Hawaiian....I love this song

[@loiscastillo5695]

Amazing person. His music was beyond measure. IZ had a good soul and spirit. There will never be another like him. He is forever missed much love and Aloha🌺🤙❤️

[@Nyasiamonique]

In his music you can feel the beauty of Hawaii and the peace and tranquility he brings in the music 🌈🌸

[@jaredL18]

When they gonna make a movie about this man? The world needs to remember him

[@waynewilliams8554]

Israel is the only person I've ever heard of that could put on a standing room only concert from his hospital room. What a wonderful talent he is, and always will be!!

[@bobjohns-qt5uc]

I read a comment about him recording this at 3 am recently, a long time ago I saw something about him calling friends too like that at any hour and was still joyful even on oxygen

[@DK-qe3xz]

Warmth and Humanity in his voice

[@dkuehara06]

The world lost a legend. We are blessed with the time he spent on this earth... leaving behind beautiful heartfelt music and a lasting impression.

[@ALPHATOY1]

I am 79 years young and just a week ago i heard his Rainbow song now i listen to it several times a day will see you soon IZ .

[@djebakumar1984]

we never forget Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole ...Love from India...

[@Strxwberry_psyche]

Im lucky enough to share a birthday with this amazing, inspirational man. Wouldn't want to share it with any other famous person✌🏼

[@davidleblanc7565]

Your right....you were walking with someone who loved God and God loved him.... it's not luck...,everything in life happens for a reason.., maybe to share his stories everywhere if you knew him.,..

[@simon-sez8793]

In 2004, I went on vacation to Oahu, or O'ahu. My son was in the Marines and stationed in Kaneoha. He befriended many of the indigenous people. The Hawaiian people call main-landers haole (not sure of the spelling). Before I went, I studied their history, language, and customs. When I got there I learned that the native Hawaiians don't care much about people from the states because vacationers are basically rude and don't treat them with the respect that should be given to people that live in a place that is visited by people from other places or countries. I was invited to go to North Shore and to places vacationers are told not to go to by the Americans that work in the airport and car rental places. I got to meet people who were close to Iz and knew his life well. I showed them great respect, and in return, I was welcomed in a way that I have never felt welcomed before. They told me stories about Iz, his family, their heritage, and so many other things. I would love to say more, but I will just end by saying that I have never met such a joyful, loving, peaceful and beautiful people in all of my life. Their love and kindness was simply overwhelming. And being a man, I got to do the local custom of rubbing noses with some of the women. My wife rubbed noses with some of the men who took quit a liking to her. The way I understood it, that custom is reserved for special people that are loved. If any of you ever go to Hawaii, you will gain something special if you show the Hawaiians the respect that they deserve. Aloha

[@mieshamason2556]

I was happy to see this commentary. I didn’t know that much about him. He was such a beautiful human being. I thank God that he was here for the time he was to be a blessing to all who listened. And to represent his native country and land Hawaii. Thank you for your amazing voice and contribution to real music and R.I.P. “IZ”.

[@brremsilverte.9022]

His native country was America.

[@Naniurca]

His voice was beautiful man:(

[@mikaelatheartist6204]

What a beautiful spirit. 🌱 You can feel his soul.

[@tessasmith6364]

Thank you, Lord, for having sent us Izzy. 😊❤️

[@BurningwithNV]

This a beautiful. Anytime IZ is involved in something I watch or listen to, I'm brought to tears. He was, iz a beautiful person.

[@joeowen1428]

Beautiful spirit, beautiful passion, beautiful gentleness. A strong man, a strong warrior, a good man. Keep walking with the Lord IZ...Keep on Walking and singing in Heaven.

[@Myrnaocala57]

Singing in heaven. Happy birthday, Iz.

[@michellelundy5683]

God is so lucky to get live concerts. ❤️❤️

[@audramuth4147]

What a beautiful soul . So sweet and talented . This song “somewhere over the rainbow “ was played at my dear friends funeral . It’s just the best song for many times of life . So sad he died so young . So sad he never got his obesity in check .

[@JayJay_1827]

I didn't know who he was before watching this video but I definitely know his music, and now after seeing this I won't forget the man who made it

[@factsoverfiction7826]

Beautiful 🌺💐🌺

[@lisadelc680]

Beautiful peaceful voice. Happy heavenly bday!

[@msapp84]

They harmonized really way. Truly one of a kind

[@papabear9481]

Sometimes, to remember what you have forgotten, you must go on a journey to find what was lost. I've arrived. Rest in Peace big man