In Hawaii, there is a powerful word: mana. It describes a person’s spiritual energy, presence, and life force. It can be felt in the way someone speaks, sings, or carries themselves. For legendary Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, his mana shone through every note he sang.
Those who heard Israel perform often spoke of the warmth, peace, and emotion in his voice. His music carried the spirit of Hawaii and connected deeply with listeners around the world.
A Star Is Born
Israel’s first public performance happened almost by accident. He and his older brother brought their worn-out ukuleles to a graduation party and began playing and singing for the guests. The reaction was immediate — the crowd was left speechless by the young singer’s incredible voice.
Encouraged by the response, Israel soon formed a band as a teenager and began his musical journey. Before long, he had become a beloved folk hero throughout Hawaii.
The Late-Night Recording That Changed Everything
The story behind Israel’s famous medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World” is almost as remarkable as the song itself.
One night in 1988, recording engineer Milan Bertosa was preparing to close his Honolulu studio when the phone rang at around 3 a.m. On the other end was Israel, politely asking if he could come in to record a song idea.
Just fifteen minutes later, Israel arrived.
Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing well over 700 pounds, he was the largest person Bertosa had ever seen enter the studio. Staff members searched for a sturdy steel chair large enough for him to sit on comfortably.
Once seated with his ukulele, Israel began to play.
In a single take, he recorded the now-famous acoustic medley that would eventually capture the hearts of millions.
At the time, the recording was simply stored away.
Five years later, while working on Israel’s second solo album, producer Jon de Mello and Bertosa felt the record needed one final touch. Bertosa remembered the late-night session and suggested adding the forgotten recording to the album.
It proved to be the perfect decision.
A Version the World Fell in Love With
Released on Israel’s 1993 album, the gentle ukulele performance quickly became an international sensation. The song found new audiences through films, television shows, and commercials, introducing generations of listeners to Israel’s unique interpretation.
Many younger listeners today recognize his version more readily than the original recording from The Wizard of Oz.
The recording was far from technically perfect. Israel occasionally altered lyrics and melodies, but those imperfections became part of its charm. Rather than focusing on mistakes, listeners connected with the honesty, simplicity, and emotion in his performance.
The song didn’t succeed because it was flawless.
It succeeded because it felt real.
Hawaii Says Goodbye
Sadly, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole passed away in 1997 from respiratory failure at just 38 years old.
The loss was deeply felt throughout Hawaii. His body lay in state at the Hawaii State Capitol building, an honor rarely given. After his cremation, his ashes were carried out to sea aboard a traditional Hawaiian voyaging canoe.
As the procession passed along the coastline, truck drivers sounded their horns in tribute.
For many, it felt as though the entire island of Oahu had gathered to say farewell.
The Legacy of Israel’s Mana
In Hawaii, Israel is remembered not only for his music but also for his dedication to Hawaiian culture and sovereignty. His larger-than-life personality and generous spirit left an unforgettable mark on his community.
Around the rest of the world, however, his legacy is forever tied to one beautiful song recorded during a spontaneous late-night studio session.
You can listen for the missed notes and altered lyrics if you want.
Or you can simply listen, smile, and feel the mana that Israel Kamakawiwo’ole poured into every word he sang.