Hawaiians are known for their unique sound when it comes to classic songs. Everyone remember the late great Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole's rendition hybrid of Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What a Wonderful World?
Now we can welcome a singer who goes by the name Willie K to the national stage. Over the weekend, he performed the national anthem before a crowd at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu.. The unique take had heads turning. While Willie K might be well known on the island, this is the first time some of us on the mainland are getting to see his talents.
As a guitarist, Willie K is no stranger to playing on big stages having performed with such acts such as Prince, Santana, ZZ Top, and Journey.
He tells the University of Hawaii:
For a local boy who idolized all these people when he's growing up, you never see yourself in that place, ever."
People are already looking to the Super Bowl.
That shouldn't be hard with these new fans.
Not everyone agreed it was okay to alter the anthem.
It's hard to respectfully please everyone.
Jane Rosenberg
Jane Rosenberg
@arianagrande/Instagram
@arianagrande/Instagram