Facing Future
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole · 1993
56 min · 15 tracks · folk · reggae
A soulful blend of Hawaiian folk and reggae that evokes the spirit of the islands with every note.
Facing Future is an album by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, released in 1993. A soulful blend of Hawaiian folk and reggae that evokes the spirit of the islands with every note. The album is significant for its commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling albums in Hawaiian music history. Its rendition of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' gained global recognition, frequently featured in films and television, solidifying Kamakawiwoʻole's influence on contemporary music and introducing new audiences to Hawaiian culture. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Facing Future sound like?
A soulful blend of Hawaiian folk and reggae that evokes the spirit of the islands with every note. Rooted in folk and reggae.
What makes Facing Future by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole notable?
The album is significant for its commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling albums in Hawaiian music history. Its rendition of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' gained global recognition, frequently featured in films and television, solidifying Kamakawiwoʻole's influence on contemporary music and introducing new audiences to Hawaiian culture. Released in 1993, 'Facing Future' was Israel Kamakawiwoʻole's debut studio album, marking his introduction as a solo artist after his work with the group Makaha Sons of Niʻihau. This album established his signature style, characterized by soothing ukulele melodies and heartfelt vocals, setting the stage for his enduring legacy in Hawaiian music.
How many songs are on Facing Future?
Facing Future has 15 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Hawaiʻi ’78 Introduction 5:05
- 2 Ka Huila Wai 3:20
- 3 ʻAmaʻama 2:14
- 4 Panini Pua Kea 3:07
- 5 Take Me Home Country Road 4:56
- 6 Kuhio Bay 3:31
- 7 Ka Pua Uʻi 2:55
- 8 White Sandy Beach of Hawaiʻi Standout 2:37
- 9 Henehene Kou ʻAka Standout 4:22
- 10 La ʻElima 3:40
- 11 Pili Me Kaʻu Manu 2:33
- 12 Maui Hawaiian Supʻpa Man 3:53
- 13 Kaulana Kawaihae 4:01
- 14 Somewhere Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World Standout 5:08
- 15 Hawaiʻi ’78 5:15
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.