Wind Beneath My Wings

This mele is not exactly a traditional Hawaiian hula song but it has special significance for Kumu Kanoe. It was written in 1982, the year she and her husband were born, by composers Jeff Silbar and Larry Henley. Although it was recorded by others, the song was first made popular by movie star and Hawaiʻi girl - Bette Midler. It was rerecorded by the Hawaiian Music giant, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, in 1995, just a few years before his passing. in 1997. Kumu Kanoe’s graduating class sang this mele as a medley with another IZ song, “White Sandy Beach of Hawaiʻi” at their Commencement Ceremony and dedicated it to their parents who supported them throughout their lives. We will learn this mele in honor of the graduates of 2001, 2021, and all of the ʻohana who have supported us over the years.