Alone in Iz World

Nothing on this CD really grabs me but is OK for background music and my parakeets sing to it.

Hawaiian musician and songwriter Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwo'ole died at the age of 38, on June 26, 1997, four years before the release of his CD "Alone in IZ World." While the CD has 13 interesting and soothing songs, I find myself mesmerized by his unusual version of "Somewhere over the Rainbow."While many others sung this tune written in 1939 by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg for the movie, The Wizard of Oz," and made famous when Judy Garland sang it there, Israel rekindled it in a memorable version that I often catch myself humming.Having had never heard of this famous Hawaiian, prior to this song, once hearing it, I had to have the IZ version in a format that would allow me to hear it at home, in my car and at work. According that is why I bought it and am so glad I did.I find the simple, soft and breathy tune with the strumming ukulele in the background a calming breath of fresh air that evokes emotions, smells, colors, sounds, and peaceful images that make me smile and appreciate my own life, as well as, this man's contributions in his short life.There is an interesting story about the cover that will leave the reader wanting to learn more about "IZ."I hope you enjoy his story and musical accomplishments as much as I do.Enjoy!

The last song before I introduced IZ to them was "In This Life" I really didn't have a plan for what song I would play first. I just decided on the music as to what I thought they needed that day. THEN I introduce IZ to them Oh and I did play Over The Rainbow...and their eyes opened, ears perked and they said "I know that......" As I explained about his life they became curious....it was time to show his him to them......first words were "Wow he has such a wonderful voice" I've got to get his music. And then they wanted to know the story........which I got off of the net. We talked about body image and bulling and wrote skits. It was the most beautiful legacy of his life represented by 12 and 13 year olds. Now I wish I had taped the productions, and how he touched the lives of children . I retired last year and I still take quiet time. I listen to "Starting All over Again" because that is what I need now.

AH, BROTHER IZ, HOW WE MISS YOUR VOICE AND YOUR MUSIC!YES, WE KNOW THAT YOU OFTEN RE-RECORDED SONGS THAT YOU'D ALREADY PERFORMED (AS IN THIS ALBUM), BUT THEY ARE WORTH REPEATING, AND EACH VARIATION IS LIKE A BRAND NEW DAY. AS A MEDICAL PERSON, MY PERSONAL GUESS IS THAT YOUR FAILING HEALTH PREVENTED YOU FROM GOING TO NEW TERRITORIES IN YOUR MUSIC...THAT PLUS YOUR POPULARITY. EVERYONE WANTED TO HEAR THE FAMILIAR FROM YOUR RICH-VOICED SOUL!IZ, ONE OF YOUR GREATEST FANS HAS ADOPTED MY WIFE AND I AS HIS HUMANS. THIS FAN IS A BEAUTIFUL LILAC POINT SIAMESE CAT. HIS NAME IS "SMOKE". HE OFTEN ACTUALLY GOES TO OUR SOUND SYSTEM AND STARTS TURNING ON THE PUSH BUTTONS, THEN SITS THERE UNTIL WE START THE CDS. THEY OF COURSE HAVE TO BE "BROTHER IZ", ESPECIALLY THE HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE SLOW ONES, LIKE OUR FAVORITE "KALEOHANO".THANKS TO GOD THAT YOU LIVED YOUR LIFE, IZ. AND EVEN MORE THANKS THAT YOUR WONDERFUL GIFT WAS SHARED WITH US ALL.ALOHA NUI LOA,DAVID AND VICTORIA EVANS

I recently visited the Big Island of Hawaii!The cover on this CD captured my attention so I asked the sales lady about it. He’s “one-of-a-kind and is deceased now. I think that you will really enjoy his music.” That was my first introduction to “IZ” and it was the beginningof my fascination and love for his unique blend of music. So soothing and intoxicating a rare and true gem of an artist he was.“IZ “”has helped me to appreciate the plight of the Hawaiian people and understand their music on a different and more soulful level!

Great music. This is my second C D of the same name because I wore the first one out.

I have several IZ CDs -- I recommend Facing Future as his best. IZ died in 1997 at age 38 from respiratory distress and heart problems associated with a genetic illness that caused him to gain massive weight. His voice is Hawaiian. His syntax is Hawaiian. His thinking is Hawaiian. He plays the Ukelele well and has a voice from heaven. Many people first heard him when watching the closing scene of "Fifty Dates." Who can sing that heavenly they thought and became fans of Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole. I discovered IZ brousing about You Tube. Years ago I went to college in Maui, before IZ was born. His singing brings me back home. IZ said he was not afraid of death - as Hawaiians have one foot on both sides anyway. If you let him, he comes back now and then. Enjoy.

I TRIED to keep this CD unopened in it's new Christmas paper (a gift to me from me for December 25th! 2008). But, on this freezing, wintery Sunday afternoon, I ripped the pretty paper off to give it a spin. I found myself totally (physically and mentally) relaxed and in peaceful awe. Smiles and giggles were summoned along the tracs. He's something else!This is my second "IZ" CD. I have "Facing Future", and couldn't imagine anything could top it. I think this one does.I'm still spellbound ...IZ's voice and spirit moves swiftly into the human heart, fueling one's entire body and soul with his trademark: Pure, Sweet, Quiet LOVE.I discovered "IZ" only after Tim Russert's death ... but, he's now in my head, and heart ... forever, and ever.

Absolutely beautiful music such a great man. arrived on time and is a pleasure to listen to

Iz, who tragically died a while ago (as a result of his obesity), was blessed with such a wonderful voice, that his death still pains many fans. This album has to be played right through, and you then immerse yourself in his fantastic voice. There are many Hawaiian songs (unfortunately, there's no English translation provided) and some English ones. I particularly like "In This Life" which is extremely moving.

great music star performer voice that rings with quality must have for fans

I thnk it was Gene Pitney on Desert Island Disks that introduced me to "Somewhere over the Rainbow" by IZ. Thanks, Gene. Brilliant rendition of a song that always used to irritate me but in IZ's hands it becomes transcendent. Whichmakes this album a 5 even though the other tracks aren't nearly as good.

If you've never heard IZ sing and play I guarantee you will be delighted. His 'voice is powerful and beautiful. This album of songs emphasises how wonderful this man was and still is ............