Searching for Hawaii's Next Big Star

An article from the Wall Street Journal, Arts & Entertainment section titled "Searching for Hawaii's Next Big Star". Some interesting facts on Iz's 1993 album "Facing Future". It's the only album by a Hawaiian artist to go Platinum. The article says it's been 17 years since it came out and there has been a drought on commercial music from the islands. Local record executives are trying to find the next "Iz". Interesting read but more so for the "Locals".

Interesting article.

One thing that always struck me about Iz was that he wasn't just a musician and/or performer. He was Hawaiian. His passion for presenting/preserving/passing-on Hawaiian culture was part of him, and was expressed.

Executives could try and find another big star, but it probably wouldn't turn out the same.

Iz's talent will be very hard to beat, he touched everyone worldwide, and he had that special something where he touched every generation...young, old and in between...
His Mana came from his heart.....We all miss him......RIP IZ...

spots said:

Interesting article.

One thing that always struck me about Iz was that he wasn't just a musician and/or performer. He was Hawaiian. His passion for presenting/preserving/passing-on Hawaiian culture was part of him, and was expressed.

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That is why his music was so great. He wasn't trying to be a star, he was trying to express himself.