Israel Kamakawiwo’ole is a Hawaiian singer, songwriter, musician, and Hawaiian sovereignty activist who rose to prominence following the release of his album “Facing Future.”
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Age, Bio
Israel Kaanoi Kamakawiwoole was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on May 20, 1959. Evangelina Keale Kamakawiwo’ole and Henry Kaleialoha Naniwa Kamakawiwo’ole were his parents. Israel, who had a brother named Skippy, became interested in playing the ukulele when he was 10 years old. He attended Waianae High School before dropping out.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole died tragically on June 26, 1997, at the age of 38. He had fought with morbid obesity his whole life, reaching 750 pounds at one point. He passed away in the middle of the night from respiratory failure. His ashes were then thrown in the ocean after he was laid to rest in Hawaii’s Capitol building. He was survived by his wife and teenage daughter.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Height And Weight
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole claims to be 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall. His exact weight is unknown. His hair and eyes were both black.

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Career
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole dropped out of high school and traveled to Waianae, Oahu, with his family, where he and his brother joined the Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau band. Between 1976 and 1991, they released 21 albums. Skippy, Israel’s brother, died in 1982 as a result of a heart attack. Israel married his long-term partner. “The Repertoire,” one of his most famous songs, was recorded in 1988.
Israel frequently sang a mash-up of two popular songs, which some music analysts say reflected his yearning for Hawaiian independence. While still working with the Makaha Sons, he recorded his debut solo album, “Ka’Ano’i,” in 1990. He immediately rose to prominence, and the sound of his music was warmly welcomed.
Israel’s second solo album, “Facing Future,” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard World Music Charts in 1993. By 2002, the record had sold 500,000 copies and had become the first Hawaiian-produced album to earn gold. In Hawaii, Israel became a genuine star, and “Facing Future” contained the song with which he would become most associated.
By 1999, Israel’s tunes have appeared in television ads and films. He has put out albums like “Ala E,” “N Dis Life,” and “IZ In Concert The Man and His Music.” “Facing Future” remains the best-selling Hawaiian music record in the world. Israel was a vocal supporter of Hawaiian independence, as well as cultural and environmental issues in Hawaii. He was an outspoken advocate for environmental and social justice, and he warned of the hazards of motorways and development.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Net worth
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole is a well-known Hawaiian singer who has broken multiple records and established a standard in the music industry. He has amassed a sizable fortune, and his family lives a comfortable and happy life. He has yet to earn any brand endorsements. There is a chance that he will start promoting brands in the near future.

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Wife, Marriage & Relationship
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole married Marlene Ku’upua Kamakawiwo’ole, with whom he had a long-term connection prior to their marriage. The couple had a daughter named Ceslie-Ann (Wehi), and Israel had a very happy life with his family.
Israel was constantly lauded for his creativity and abilities, and he released legendary tunes that are still remembered today. He managed his personal and business lives flawlessly, and he avoided rumors and controversies.
Quick Facts
Full Name | Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻol |
---|---|
Born Date | 20 May 1959 |
Age | 38 years |
Death Date | June 26, 1997 |
Gender | Male |
Profession | singer |
Country | Honolulu, Hawaii |
Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.88m) |
Marital Status | married |
Wife | Marlene Ku’upua Kamakawiwi’ole |
Eye Color | black |
Hair Color | black |
Birth Place | Honolulu, Hawaii |
Nationality | Hawaiian |
Ethnicity | Hawaiian |
Education | Waianae High School |
Father | Henry Kaleialoha Naniwa Kamakawiwo’ole |
Mother | Evangelina Keale Kamakawiwo’ole |
Siblings | Skippy |
Kids | Leslie-Ann |