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Music is the essence of life. The graceful voice can cause tears in the eyes of many while the heart-pounding drumming of tribal dances can get the blood coursing through the body. But whether it is the lyrics or simply the instrument, music has the ability to empower and control the heart. Take the song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," by Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole. Perhaps the fact that this song is a tribute to life, his life in particular, that makes me feel such a connection. Shortly after this song got popular, "Bruddah Iz" as he is known passed away. Of his gifts to the world was this peaceful, soothing song.
I first heard this song as a live performance from my boyfriend. This type of song is not what I normally listen to. Normally my musical repertoire consists of rock and alternative music, quite different from this islander piece. But rhythmical strumming of the ukulele and the soft, raspy vocals that accompany the song set a mood I will always associate with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." Something about the simplicity of the instrument and the lyrics made the song reach to me even more. This song changed my perception of life and helped me realize to live life to the fullest and don't focus on your worries. When I heard my boyfriend sing it to me, I felt uplifted and happy. I love this song for many reasons, but I feel my main connection is that it is one piece of music where not only the words reach to me, but the instruments
sound as well.
Israel Kamakawiwo'Ol’s song is significant in that it reminds people about remembering what matters in life. The tranquil melody of the song reminds us to slow down and "think what a wonderful world." The melody is slow and works well with the lyrics because the lyrics talk about taking it easy, and enjoying the moment, just as the casual pace of the song suggest. In addition, the melody range in this piece is low. This is obvious because the song is sung in the deepness of the male...