We know a number of people taking “stay-cations”, enjoying the city as though they were visiting it anew, filling themselves up with wonderful art, food, happenings, and not dealing with traveling for one reason for another. We’re going to do the same in a week or so, just so we can WANDER, without a schedule for a while, which is the best way we know of recharging.
We think the late, beloved Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” (and his other greatest hits) to be the perfect escape for those in need of an instant vacation. It’s the perfect gentle music for summer hanging out.
Just a quick note on this video and your description of the song as sweet and slightly corny. Iz is well-loved in Hawaii, and this song is sacred to many. If you watch the video through to the end, this is a remembrance of his life. His ashes are being spread in the sea as hordes of people celebrate him – a very poignant moment. To me, it’s not an appropriate video to go with an article about lightness, staycations, and the need for sweet and corny in the summer.
I agree that the song is perfect for a summer weekend, but there is history in it, and maybe there’s a better video for your purpose.
Thanks. I almost always love your pieces.
Hi Cindy, Thanks so much for your comment. Sadly, I was not able to glean the context of the video from watching it, nor were there any accompanying notes about it. So I’ve replaced it with a collection of his greatest hits that includes Somewhere Over the Rainbow, and a little context about how he was.