Somewhere over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo

[dc_guy_75]

I just recently heard this song by Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole, he died in 1997, the year this was recorded.

Its one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard, it makes me want to cry.


http://youtube.com/watch?v=2A2Jt4WOxN8

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Kamakawiwo%27ole

[London Guy]

Absolutely man - I love this version.

[maximilian]

Never heard of him before. Just amazing.

[Falrune]

I already had to listen to this version, as well as Leona Lewis', Katharine McPhee's and Eva Cassidy's versions during the 5th season of American Idol (comparisons with Ms McPhee). No one matches the feelings that Judy Garland got out of that song. As for technical skill, no one beats Katharine McPhee at it (Leona Lewis sucks compared to McPhee).

[crazyjapaneseboi]

i live in hawaii and hes a local favorite and is very popular but he pasted away in the late 90's but his songs are very good

[Jasadin]

What do you guys think of the track Hawaii 78 from the same album?

[horst1]

beautiful

[tg4me]

McPhee's version started out great, but as usual with American Idol they tend to over-sing everything. :? Still one of the best. Those eyes and those amazing lips...YUM.
Jason Castro did the IZZY version. The crowd was captivated. For me it was one of the best moments of the entire season. Too bad it was so short to fit the TV show. The low organ note and strings brought all the warmth to that version. He's lucky it's on video. A million views on you tube within a week or two.
That brought in another wave a new fans to IZZY and I agree, it takes the song to a different magical mindset than Judy's legendary original.
Or at least that's how I see it. :roll:

[whatsupwithat]

one of the classics. i don't know of anyone that's heard it that didn't have the same reaction as you.

anytime. anyplace. this version will live on forever.

[conan007]

Brilliant.