U.S. Navy Band Does Heartfelt Mashup Of Two Immortal Old Tunes

Apr 01, 2020 by apost team

The United States Navy Band's mashup of "What A Wonderful World" reminds us to remain optimistic despite the difficult times we are facing at the moment.

We lived in a troubled time in history. Things like watching the news or going to the grocery store can elicit feelings of dread and uncertainty in even the most steadfast individual. While we may currently live in a troubled time, it is important to remember that times like these will pass. Throughout history, people have borne witness to incredibly troubling events and, in the end, managed to find their way to the other end. For many people, music and the arts proved to be powerful signs of hope in even the darkest hours. In a now-viral video, the United States Navy Band reminds the world to remain optimistic despite the darkness that now envelopes our lives.

The United States Navy Band has a specific mission. According to the organization’s website, the band provides musical support for the president, the Department of the Navy, and other political and military leaders. Among the many functions of the United States Navy Band is to project a positive image of the Navy while supporting recruitment and retention efforts, preserving America’s musical heritage, and encouraging a spirit of patriotism. To these ends, the U.S. Navy Band recently released a mashup of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.”

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Chief Musician William F. Edwards leads the band in their version of the two songs, which are inspired by the cover performed by Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwoʻole from 1993. Throughout the performance, Chief Edwards is accompanied by an entire lineup of backup-singers and a ukulele player. Inspired by The Wizard of Oz, the video of the recording, which was shot in front of a large crowd in Washington, D.C., begins in black and white. As Edwards launches into “What a Wonderful World,” the video becomes colorized, seemingly taking the viewer to a wonderful new world.

The video has thus far been watched about 2 million times on YouTube. Many of the commentators note how soothing Edwards’ baritone voice is, as well as praising the harmonious background singers. Others say that it gives them hope that they will make it through to happier times once the coronavirus pandemic is over.

The United States Navy Band’s mashup of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World” is just what people need in these difficult times. The imagery elicited in both songs reminds the listener of the beauty of the world and how difficult times always pass. In the end, the mashup is a light shining in the darkness.

What do you think of the United States Navy Band’s performance? What are you doing to remain positive and upbeat during the quarantine? Let us know in the comments and be sure to pass this article along to others!