IZ in Concert:  The Man and His Music
Born in Honolulu in 1959, this son of a Ni'ihau mother returned to Ni'ihau to spend the first five years of his life with his Tutu Kane, his Grandfather. In 1964 he returned to Oahu to join his immediate family then on to Makaha on the Waianae Coast where Israel was to learn the importance of his Hawaiian heritage and discover the richness and mystique in the music and culture of his islands.With an ukulele, his constant companion, Israel would sing and play for anyone who listened.The texture of his voice, the songs and the sound of his resonant ukulele constantly create the feeling that a new, musical Hawaii is emerging. Yet, the basics of his musical inventions remain embedded in the rich, warm, musical soil of his Ni'ihau and Makaha Kapunas.Band members:Israel Kamakawiwo'ole-ukulele, lead vocals Mel Amina-guitar Analu Aina-bass Michael Muldoon-percussion Gaylord Holomalia-keyboards & musical director