Israel Ka’ano’i Kamakawiwo’ole, also known as Braddah IZ or simply IZ, is a well-known Native Hawaiian musician and singer.
He achieved great commercial success and popularity outside of Hawaii with the release of his 1993 album, Future-oriented.
Kamakawiwo’ole, whose stage name includes the Hawaiian word for “fearless eye,” is an influential and beloved figure in the Hawaiian music scene.
contour
- Full name: Israel Kano y Kamakavivo Oler
- Stage name: Brada·IZ
- Date of birth: May 20, 1959
- Date of death: June 26, 1997 (38 years old)
- Birthplace: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Nationality: United States
- Occupation: Musician and singer
- Height: 1.88m
- Parents: Henry “Hank” Kalealoha Naniwa Kamakawiwo-Oler Jr. and Evangeline “Angie” Lenani Kamakawiwo-Oler
- Siblings: Skippy Kamakawiwo Oller
- Spouse: Marlene Kamakawiwoole
- Children: Ceslie-Ann Kamakawiwo’ole
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: $500,000
early life and education
Israel Ka’ano’i Kamakawiwo’ole was born on May 20, 1959 in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States. He was born to parents Henry “Hank” Kamakawiwo?ole Jr. and Evangeline “Angie” Lehner Raised by Evangeline “Angie” Leinani Kamakawiwo?ole and his brother Skippy Kamakawiwo?ole.
He attended Waianae High School and participated in the Upward Bound program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Israel is a Native Hawaiian who practices Christianity and embraces his cultural heritage through music and life.
Profession
Israel Kamakawiwoëole, often referred to as “IZ” or “Braddah IZ,” is a renowned Hawaiian musician whose influence transcends his island roots.
IZ began his musical journey by co-founding the band Son of Makaha of Nihau With his brothers and friends. The band gained widespread acclaim in Hawaii, producing several successful albums that blended traditional Hawaiian music with modern influences.
In 1993, with the release of the album, his solo career reached unprecedented heights. Facing the future, Featuring his timeless medleys “Somewhere over the rainbow/What a wonderful world.” This iconic track captivated listeners around the world, became a global sensation, and introduced Hawaiian music to an international audience. The song’s emotional depth and soulful delivery have secured IZ’s status as a global music icon and cultural ambassador.
social media
- Instagram account: @officializawaii
- Facebook account: Israel Kamakawiwoëole
personal life
Israel Kamakawiwoëole married Marlene Kamakawiwoëole. They have a daughter named Ceslie-Ann Kamakawiwo’ole. Their marriage was marked by love and unwavering commitment, and even in the face of Israel’s tragic death in 1997, Marlene continued to honor his legacy and ensure that their daughters were surrounded by their father’s love and wisdom.
discography
- Future-oriented
- Alanine E
- Alone in Izzy’s world
- Future-oriented
net worth
When Israel Kamakawiwo’ole died in 1997, his net worth was $500,000. Despite his limited financial resources, his impact on the music industry and Hawaiian culture is immeasurable, leaving a legacy of inspiration, artistry, and cultural pride.
