Somewhere Over The Rainbow "Somewhere Over The Rai…
Somewhere Over The Rainbow
“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” has become the ukulele anthem of this generation. This version originates with the late Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (Bradda Iz), a full-blooded Hawaiian with a lovely tenor voice and an elegant Kamaka tenor uke. Iz’s rendition is a medley with “What a Wonderful World.” Not only are those two wonderful, heartbreaking songs but there’s good theology in there too. “Rainbow” wishes for a better world while “Wonderful World” affirms the inherent beauty of God’s creation. The world IS beautiful and yet it is called toward the dream of a better future.
I really like Scrubs, too. Funny show. Zach Braff is a major talent, even if he looks like SF Giants pitcher Matt Morris’ long lost twin brother.
And yes, the song is in a Rice Krispies commercial now. And yes, I can play it on the uke.
A Man Called Preach 
Dear Willie,
This is in relation to your blog in general, not this specific post.
I did a Google search on my name (just for fun) and was flattered to find my picture on your website! Thanks for the good coverage of our mission trip to Louisiana with UMCOR. It was a great experience. And yes, I do play the baritone ukulele and love it!
For a look at what we did on our trip, you can visit our blog at hissmissions.blogspot.com.
God bless,
Mark Smiley, Hiss UMC, Parkville, MD
Just my two cents here, I personally don’t think the video does the songs justice. Isreal Kamakawiwo’ole is a Hawaiian Icon, and true master of the Uke. To have a group not only play off key but sing off key is somewhat of an insult to the Big Man. I’m sorry but why couldn’t they have used IZ’s beautiful song as a background in his version, instead of having a lame version featured? Hawaiian artists need to be given their just reward as performers, don’t kick off a haole version!