What makes E Ala E by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole notable?

E Ala E helped solidify Kamakawiwoʻole's reputation as a prominent figure in Hawaiian music, featuring songs that would become staples in his repertoire. The album received critical acclaim and contributed to the resurgence of interest in Hawaiian music during the 1990s. Released in 1995, E Ala E was Israel Kamakawiwoʻole's second studio album, following his debut album, Ka Nohona Pili Kai. At this point in his career, Kamakawiwoʻole was beginning to gain recognition for his unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music and contemporary influences.

E Ala E works well if you're into steady mid-tempo relaxation, celebratory moments with friends and soothing background for gatherings.

How many songs are on E Ala E?

E Ala E has 13 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

E Ala E

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole · 1995

48 min · 13 tracks · folk music

Lush ukulele melodies intertwine with heartfelt vocals, creating a serene soundscape that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian culture.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wind Beneath My Wings / He Hawaiʻi Au — This medley showcases Kamakawiwoʻole's ability to fuse popular Western songs with traditional Hawaiian elements, highlighting his signature vocal style.
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Aloha Ka Manini — The track emphasizes themes of love and connection to nature, encapsulating the warmth and vibrancy of Hawaiian culture through its joyful melody.
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Kauaʻi Beauty — A celebration of the island's natural beauty, this song features rich imagery and reflects Kamakawiwoʻole’s deep connection to his homeland.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with heartfelt vocals, creating a distinct and cohesive listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong, rhythmic ukulele introduction that sets a relaxed pace for the first half.
The final three tracks shift to a more reflective tone, slowing down the tempo and creating a serene conclusion.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo relaxation
celebratory moments with friends
soothing background for gatherings
heartfelt sing-alongs with family

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone single tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1995, E Ala E was Israel Kamakawiwoʻole's second studio album, following his debut album, Ka Nohona Pili Kai. At this point in his career, Kamakawiwoʻole was beginning to gain recognition for his unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music and contemporary influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Jack Johnson· Donavon Frankenreiter· Kolohe Kai

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 E Ala Ē 4:59
2 ʻUlili E 2:26
3 Kaleohano 3:38
4 Wind Beneath My Wings / He Hawaiʻi Au 4:37
5 Tengoku Kara Kaminari (Thunder From Heaven) 4:06
6 Kamalani 4:15
7 Aloha Ka Manini 4:36
8 Mauʻi Medley 3:29
9 Hele on to Kauaʻi 2:26
10 Kauaʻi Beauty 4:39
11 Theme From Gilligan's Island 3:09
12 I Ke Alo O Iesu 3:21
13 A Hawaiian Like Me 2:30

What to play next

Listen next

N Dis Life

1996

Go back to

Facing Future

1993

Full Israel Kamakawiwoʻole discography Artists like Israel Kamakawiwoʻole

reggae

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata