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Israel “Bruddah IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole is one of Hawaii’s most-loved musicians. “The Gentle Giant” had a melodic voice and a fine touch with the ukulele. Massively popular in Hawai’i, he became famous on the mainland through two songs: the medley “Somewhere Over The Rainbow / What A Wonderful World” and “Hawai’i ‘78″.

He died ten years ago today of weight-related respiratory illness. He was the third person to lay in state at the Capitol building in Honolulu. His funeral was attended by over ten thousand people.