“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is an enduring, iconic song written for the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. Sung by Judy Garland’s character Dorothy, it symbolizes hope, dreams, and the longing for a better world beyond current hardships.
Its beautiful melody and uplifting lyrics resonated deeply during difficult times like the Great Depression and World War II.
Over the decades, the song has been adopted by many communities as an anthem of courage and possibility. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s later ukulele rendition gave it a fresh, peaceful life, reinforcing its message of hope globally.
This song remains a powerful symbol of yearning for a brighter, more accepting future, beloved across generations and cultures for its emotional depth and universal optimism.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Performed by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole)
[Intro]
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh, ooh
Ooh-ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh
[Verse 1]
Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
And the dreams that you dreamed of
Once in a lullaby
Oh, somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly
And the dreams that you dreamed of
Dreams really do come true, hoo, hoo, ooh-ooh-ooh
[Verse 2]
Someday I’ll wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where trouble melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney tops, that’s where you’ll find me, oh
Somewhere over the rainbow bluebirds fly
And the dream that you dare to, oh, why, oh, why can’t I, I?
[Verse 3]
Oh, someday, I’ll wish upon a star
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where trouble melts like-a lemon drops
High above the chimney top, that’s where you’ll find me
Oh, somewhere over the rainbow way up high
And the dream that you dare to, why, oh, why can’t I, I?See upcoming pop showsGet tickets for your favorite artists[Outro]
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh
Ooh-ah-ah, eeh, ah, ah-ah-ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah
Lee-ha!
On the Facing Future album, the track is officially titled “Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World.
Credits
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Over the Rainbow” medley stands as one of the most recognizable Hawaiian recordings of all time.
| ROLE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Singer | Israel Kamakawiwo’ole |
| Composer | Harold Arlen |
| Lyricist | Edgar Yip Harburg |
| Album | Facing Future (1993) |
| Producer | Jon de Mello |
| Label | Mountain Apple Company |
While the album Facing Future was released in 1993, the famous medley was actually recorded in a spontaneous 3:00 AM session in 1988.
The collaboration between these artists and professionals created a musical legacy that continues to touch hearts worldwide.
Tracklist & Notes
- Hawai’i ’78: A powerful song advocating for Hawaiian sovereignty and cultural preservation.
- Ka Huila Wai: Traditional Hawaiian song honoring nature and heritage.
- Ama’ama: Light and breezy, showing the spirit of island life.
- Take Me Home Country Roads: A Hawaiian-reggae rendition of the John Denver classic, blending island rhythms with familiar lyrics.
- White Sandy Beach of Hawai’i: A nostalgic ballad celebrating the natural beauty of Hawai’i.
- Maui Hawaiian Sup’pa Man: Cheerful and rhythmic tribute to Hawaiian culture.
- Somewhere Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World: Iz’s famous ukulele medley combining hope, peace, and wonder, loved worldwide.
These highlights reflect the rich cultural and emotional fabric of this landmark Hawaiian album.
History of the Song
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was written in 1939 for The Wizard of Oz by composer Harold Arlen and lyricist Yip Harburg. Judy Garland introduced the song in the film, and it quickly became one of the most loved songs in popular music.
Its message of hope, longing, and finding a better place connected with listeners right away. Over the years, many artists recorded their own versions, which helped keep the song alive for new generations.
One of the most memorable covers came from Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, whose gentle ukulele version gave the classic a fresh and heartfelt sound. Because of that lasting appeal, the song still feels familiar, comforting, and relatable today.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow Versions and Legacy
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” has developed far beyond its original 1939 version by Judy Garland, inspiring countless covers and renditions that have kept the song enduring.
1. Judy Garland’s Live Performances
Judy Garland continued to perform “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in concerts and TV appearances for over 30 years after The Wizard of Oz. Most people don’t know the song has an introductory verse (called a “verse-prelude”) that Judy Garland didn’t sing in the movie but performed later in her life.
Her live performances kept the emotional innocence of the original intact, captivating audiences with her heartfelt delivery and vocal power. These performances helped establish the song as her signature anthem.
2. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Medley Version
In 1988, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (IZ) recorded a simple, heartfelt ukulele medley of “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.” The recording was officially released in 1993 on his album Facing Future.
This intimate rendition introduced a fresh, soothing interpretation that gained worldwide acclaim, bringing the song to new audiences and infusing it with distinctive Hawaiian musical warmth.
3. Notable Covers and Charting Versions
Eva Cassidy’s celebrated version was recorded in 1992 for the album The Other Side, but it didn’t achieve its massive chart success and critical acclaim in the UK and Ireland until 2001. Ariana Grande delivered a powerful live rendition in 2017 at the One Love Manchester benefit concert.
Other charting versions include those by Cliff Richard and Katharine McPhee, attesting to the song’s broad appeal and enduring message.
4. Stage and Media Presence
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” remains a centerpiece of The Wizard of Oz stage revivals and is widely featured in films, television, commercials, and memorials worldwide.
It continues to symbolize hope and dreams across diverse contexts, reinforcing its legacy as a cross-generational anthem of optimism and longing.
Sheet Music and Lullaby Versions
The enduring melody of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is available in varied sheet music editions and gentle lullaby arrangements, making it accessible for musicians and perfect for soothing moments.
Sheet Music
Available in official piano, vocal, and guitar arrangements for all skill levels. Licensed copies from Hal Leonard and MusicNotes include full scores, lead sheets, and special arrangements.
Digital sheet music platforms also offer interactive versions with playback features, allowing musicians to practice along with professional recordings and adjust tempo settings for learning purposes.
Lullaby Versions
Judy Garland’s soft vocal style inspired many bedtime adaptations. Piano and instrumental arrangements create calming versions popular on streaming platforms and lullaby compilations.
Many parents and music therapists use these gentle renditions in nurseries and pediatric care settings, as the familiar melody combined with slower tempos helps create peaceful environments for rest and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” Win an Oscar?
Yes, it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1940.
Why Was It Almost Cut from The Film?
Executives thought it slowed the pacing of the movie.
Is Judy Garland’s Recording Preserved in History?
Yes, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1981.
