I can’t really believe that I haven’t posted this before, although Denise pointed out that part of it is the same song as last Monday’s post!
IZ, as he was often known, was a singer from Hawaii who died in 1997 at the age of 38. He left behind some wonderful music for us.
For those receiving this by e-mail, click here for the video.
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{ 35 comments… read them below or add one }
What a great way to start the week. It reminds me of the first time I heard it as part of the soundtrack to Finding Forester – I must watch it again soon.
Have a great week everyone.
Simon,
I don’t think I ever saw that movie – I’d have remembered the song, right?
Paul
Maybe not if you are one of those people who legs it out of the theatre before the credits come up since this track comes up at the end. Appropriately enough given the theme of the film. It is a nice film.
Unfortunately, I never knew of him or his music until after his untimely death. His “Somewhere over the rainbow” rendition is one of the most enjoyable songs I’ve ever heard.
I agree with Simon – what a terrific way to start the week. Thank you.
Bob,
My complete pleasure.
Paul
I first “heard” Iz in 1999, as the music for an eToys (oh those intrepid early web retailers!) commercial, and I was captivated. I was visiting Hawaii somewhat frequently at the time as part of a work project, so on my next visit I did some exploring in a local music store and came away with a treasure trove!
May he rest in peace, his music brings such joy to so many and lives on.
Fran,
“I was visiting Hawaii somewhat frequently at the time…” Tough work, but someone had to do it, right?!
Paul
I knew that someone would say that Paul! But you are correct, someone did have to do it!!
This is such a joyful way to start the week – you can feel the joy in IZ’s voice. The video was beautiful as well. Thank you.
Lynda,
Yes, which is why his death at such a young age is so sad.
Paul
Thank you for a beautiful way to start the week. It is such a nice reminder that even when someone is gone, we can still experience their graces from God that they once shared with us.
Kathy,
Amen. Amen. Amen.
Paul
I agree with every one about this beautiful song, may the guy who did the song
rest in peace.
Philip,
Yes, indeed.
Paul
Oh, this is so beautiful! thank you!
Claire,
No need for thanks. All I did was post it. But thank you.
Paul
I had never heard of this singer before and really enjoyed the clip. At least he lives on in his music. I too; lost a brother aged 37yrs in 1988 at a time when his 2 adopted daughters were only 5yrs and 15mths old. He too lives on, in our hearts. He was my big brother who I knew would always look out for me.
Katy,
I am so sorry to learn about your brother’s death. I do hope his daughters are doing well.
Paul
Katy,
That is so young and with young children at the time. My thoughts to you and your family. How wonderful to know an angel in heaven is watching over you all.
Kathy
I love his version of these two wonderful melodies, not only a great way to start off the week, but an awesome way to help celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary today, many thanks
Tim,
Congratulations!! God Bless you both!
Kathy
Blessings to you both!
Happy Anniversary!! You are a beacon of hope and affirmation to those of us only beginning the journey
We hear too often of the failed attempts.
Happy Anniversary! We will be celebrating half that next month!
Happy anniversary to both of you!
35 years?????? Do they allow children to be wed in your state
Belated happy anniversary Tim
Tim ,
Hope you both had a wonderful day celebrating your anniversary!
Congratulations and Blessings throughout the coming year.
Tim,
Congratulations to you and your lovely wife.
Paul
Beautiful! Thanks, Paul.
Who could possibly hear that and go away in a foul temper? A gifted vocalist and the ukelele! I don’t know that anyone could play sad music on a ukelele? They’re making a come back, which is a sign of our times. We need some joy. Not to mention, that they’re an inexpensive instrument and easy to learn. I’m surprised Tim didn’t mention this one….. “Long Way Home”, by Steven Curtis Chapman. I don’t care what place you find yourself in, you can not listen to that song and go away unhappy or discouraged. He’s experienced some significant personal tragedy in his life, yet has gifted us with such an inspiring song Gonna get you listnening to that dreaded contemparary Christian Music yet). I don’t know why you wouldn’t enjoy it, not much different than Godspell……….
George Fornby!!! You can’t beat George Fornby
How come your smile is bigger than mine??????????? Guess I’d better go find George Fornby! I want that big gigantic smile!!!!!!!
Use the D instead of the bracket – it makes for an even cheesier grin
By the way, I mis-typed. It was George ForMby, not ForNby. A ukelele maestro.
I agree with Emma, the ukelele and the gentleness of his voice were the perfect combo. What a beautiful soul.
When I saw this posted here, I basically thought, “OK, seen that. No comment.” I didn’t even bother to watch more than a minute or so.
Last night, my wife was having a terrible time putting our 18-month-old son to bed (I was washing the dishes, in case you’re wondering). He kept fussing and crying, and she eventually gave up and took him to the living room. Her plan was to sit there with him and be boring, so he wouldn’t be rewarded for refusing to go to bed, but he was gearing up for full-blown tantrum mode.
I finished rinsing some dishes and headed in to help. I looked down at my son in my wife’s lap. He looked up at me and kept crying. I looked him straight in the eyes and sang, “oo. OOOOOO-ooo. OO-oo-OO-oo-oooo . . .” He stopped fussing almost immediately. Even though I couldn’t remember all the words or sing the song very smoothly, I had his rapt attention and held it until I finished, at which point he clapped his hands. After a couple more songs and a couple bedtime stories, I had him calm enough to go down for the night.
So thanks, Paul, for posting this yesterday morning!