Somewhere Over The Rainbow

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's rendition of 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' is a gentle, soul-stirring take on the classic song originally performed by Judy Garland in the 1939 film 'The Wizard of Oz.' Kamakawiwo'ole, also known as Iz, was a Hawaiian musician known for his ukulele playing and incorporation of jazz and reggae influences into his music. His version of the song, with its soft ukulele accompaniment and his distinctive, emotive voice, has become a beloved interpretation worldwide, often associated with feelings of peace, nostalgia, and longing for a better place.

The lyrics of 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' speak to a universal yearning for a place of happiness and tranquility, away from the troubles of the world. The 'rainbow' serves as a metaphor for dreams and hopes that seem out of reach, a magical boundary between the harshness of reality and the bliss of an ideal world. The song's imagery of bluebirds flying and troubles melting like lemon drops evokes a sense of innocence and purity, suggesting that such a paradise is attainable, if only in our dreams or aspirations.

Kamakawiwo'ole's performance adds a layer of poignancy to the song, as it resonates with the history and struggles of the Hawaiian people. The repeated questioning, 'Oh, why can't I?' underscores a sense of longing not just for personal dreams, but perhaps also for the larger cultural and historical aspirations of his native Hawaii. The song, in this context, becomes an anthem of hope and resilience, encouraging listeners to continue dreaming and striving for a better world, no matter how distant it may seem. Kamakawiwo'ole's 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' invites us to believe in the possibility of a place where dreams do come true, and to keep looking for our own 'somewhere' over the rainbow.