Hawai’i 78 was originally written by Mickey Ioane, Abe Keala, Cleyton Kua, and David Crowley and later performed by Israel Kamakawiwoole’s former band, the Makaha Sons of Niihau. The song was already written in 1977, therefore originally titled Hawai’i 77 and performed by The Ioane Brothers. This haunting and beautiful song is grieving the losses of the indigenous people, spirit and land of Hawai’i in the face of modern civilization. Wholehearted Chorus sings this in the spirit of love and protection for indigenous lands, species, cultures everywhere.
This is the Israel Kamakawiwoole’s interpretation of the song. Check out the website about IZ here http://izhawaii.com and if you enjoy his songs, his albums are still available.
In 2019 the song was re imagined by the Mana Maoli Collective, a Hawaiian Nonprofit. Check out their website for details at https://manamaoli.org/. This version is truly moving and my favorite. Thanks to all the performers for coming together to create this highly emotional masterpiece.
