Israel Kamakawiwo`ole
Bio
March 25th brings a special tribute show to the one and only Israel Kamakawiwo`ole (also known as Bruddah IZ or simply IZ), who is a world-renowned Hawaiian singer & lyricist. He achieved commercial success outside Hawaii when his album, "Facing Future" was released in 1993, reaching Platinum Status selling over 1 million copies and has been recorded as the best-selling Hawaiian album of all time. His medley of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World" has been released on 4 of his albums since, and subsequently featured in several films, television programs, and television commercials. Now, almost 24 years after his passing, the music of Bruddah IZ remains on world music charts and in the hearts of Hawaii's people and fans around the world. Along with his velvety smooth voice, distinctive ukulele playing and the incorporation of other genres, such as jazz and reggae, Kamakawiwoʻole’s music remains influential in Hawaiian music.
During this special performance, Henry will be joined by “Bruddah Iz’s” last official band: Melvin Amina (3 Scoops of Aloha) on guitar/vocals, Analu Aina on bass/vocals, and Gaylord Holomalia (Kalapana) on keyboards. They will pay tribute to the music of this talented musician and share personal stories & anecdotes of the man they were proud to call Friend!