Israel Kamakawiwo Ole Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, often simply known as Iz, was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1959. Growing up in the Kaimuki neighborhood, he was immersed in the rich musical culture of the islands from an early age. Iz’s musical journey began in his teens when he started playing the ukulele, an instrument deeply rooted in Hawaiian tradition. He formed his first band, Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau, with his brothers and cousins in the late 1970s, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Iz’s unique style, blending traditional Hawaiian music with elements of reggae and pop, gained local recognition in the 1980s. However, it was his 1993 album, “Facing Future,” that catapulted him to international fame. The album’s lead single, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” a medley of two iconic songs, became a global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and solidifying Iz’s status as a Hawaiian music legend.
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Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, according to recent sources. This figure reflects his successful music career and various business ventures.
Career
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, often referred to as “IZ”, was a Hawaiian musician and vocalist. He was known for his popular medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World”, which has been featured in numerous films and television shows. IZ’s music, heavily influenced by Hawaiian culture, has sold millions of copies worldwide. He passed away in 1997, but his music continues to be celebrated and his legacy lives on.
Other Ventures
IZ’s influence extends beyond his music. He was a strong advocate for Hawaiian rights and culture. After his death, his family established the Israel Kamakawiwo’ole Celebration of Life, an annual event honoring his legacy and promoting Hawaiian culture. The event includes music, dance, and food, attracting thousands of attendees each year.
Assets
IZ’s assets include his extensive music catalog, which continues to generate royalties. His family also owns property in Hawaii, including his childhood home in Kaimuki, which is now a historical landmark. Additionally, IZ’s signature ‘ukulele, a Martin tenor ‘ukulele, is on display at the Martin Guitar Museum in Nazareth, Pennsylvania.
Annual Income
IZ’s annual income during his lifetime is not publicly available. However, his music continues to generate revenue through streaming services, sales, and licensing deals. According to recent reports, his estate earns approximately $500,000 annually from his music catalog alone.
Frequently Asked Questions about Israel Kamakawiwo Ole
**Frequently Asked Questions: Israel Kamakawiwo’ole Net Worth**
1. What is Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s net worth?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
2. How did Israel Kamakawiwo’ole make his money?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole made his money primarily through his successful music career. He was a renowned Hawaiian musician, singer, and songwriter, known for his unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary styles.
3. What was Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s most famous song?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s most famous song is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” a medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.” This song gained international fame after being featured in several movies and TV shows.
4. When did Israel Kamakawiwo’ole pass away?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole passed away on June 26, 1997, at the age of 38.
5. What was the cause of Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s death?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole died of lung disease, a complication of his longstanding struggle with obesity.
6. Did Israel Kamakawiwo’ole have any siblings?
Yes, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole had six siblings. He was the youngest of seven children in the Kamakawiwo’ole family.
7. What was Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s birth name?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s birth name was Israel Ka’ano’i Kamakawiwo’ole.
8. Where was Israel Kamakawiwo’ole born?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole was born in Honolulu, Hawaii.
9. What instruments did Israel Kamakawiwo’ole play?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole was a multi-instrumentalist, but he was best known for playing the ukulele. He also played the steel guitar, bass, and other traditional Hawaiian instruments.
10. What was Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s legacy?
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s legacy is that of a Hawaiian cultural icon. He helped to popularize traditional Hawaiian music worldwide and was a prominent advocate for the Hawaiian sovereignty movement.
