The current worldwide appreciation of ukulele music can easily be traced
to one man, Israel Iz Kamakawiwo'ole. Israel's music conveys joy and
hope and is loved the world over. When writing the book From the Corner
of His Eye, author Dean Koontz found inspiration in Iz's music, stating,
I hope that the reader finds pleasure in my story equal to the joy and
consolation that I found in the voice, the spirit, and the heart of
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. Tragically, Iz passed away at the age of 38 in
1997. The state flag of Hawaii was flown at half mast as he lay in state
at the Hawaiian capitol building. He was the third person in Hawaiian
history to be bestowed this honor. Ten thousand people attended his
funeral and thousands gathered to witness as his ashes were scattered at
Makua Beach. This songbook contains 13 songs transcribed for ukulele
exactly as Iz performed them. Titles: 'Ama'ama * Hawai'i '78 * A
Hawaiian Like Me * Henehene Kou 'Aka * Ka Huila Wai * Ka Pua U'i *
Keyhole Hula (Kauoha Mai) * Kuhio Bay * Na Ka Pueo * Over the
Rainbow/What a Wonderful World * Panini Puakea * 'Ulili E * White
Sandy Beach * The Wind Beneath My Wings/He Hawai'i Au.