Over the Rainbow and Beyond: A Realistic Guide for Ukulele Beginners

Why everybody wants to play songs about rainbows!

When I ask adult beginner ukulele players what songs they dream of playing, rainbow songs top the list. There’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”—both the classic Wizard of Oz version and the Hawaiian reimagining by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. And then there’s “Rainbow Connection,” made famous by Kermit the Frog.

What is it about rainbow songs?

I think it’s because they’re about hope in hard times—songs that lift spirits and shift energy. That’s something I care about deeply.

Rainbow songs are tricky – but they’re worth it

These songs sound simple, but they aren’t easy to play—especially for beginners. Unlike “You Are My Sunshine” (which you can play with a few basic chords), rainbow songs are stretch goals. They require practice and patience—but they’re worth it.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow – two versions

The two very different versions of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” are both hugely popular.

The Wizard of Oz version

Composed by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg, this version was nearly cut from the 1939 film. Judy Garland’s yearning performance struck a chord with many—especially within the LGBTQ+ community and older generations. My late mother, Sue, who had dementia, could still remember the lyrics. Singing it with her was a powerful experience—even though the Hawaiian version left the dementia care facility residents a bit confused!

✅ Ukulele tip: Even in a simplified key, the full song uses up to 16 chords. I play a version with just five chords—simple enough to enjoy, even if it isn’t musically “correct.” Luckily, the strumming is straightforward: a basic down-up rhythm.

(However, I know some music teachers and highly trained musicians who just can’t stand playing an “approximate” version. “Those chords are wrong,” they complain.)

The Hawaiian version by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

I first heard this on Christmas Day, 1990. It was so moving, I wanted to grab a ukulele on the spot.

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, or “Brother Iz,” was not just a brilliant musician—he was a Hawaiian sovereignty activist whose music still inspires people worldwide.

He transformed the song while keeping its soul intact. Sitting on a beach, strumming casually—it looks easy.

✅ Ukulele tip: Five basic chords, but the strumming is deceptively complex. Cynthia Lin offers a helpful “in the style of Iz” tutorial—but it’s still a big ask for beginners. Also, singing it well? That’s another challenge. Brother Iz and Cynthia Lin make it look effortless, but they’re pros. Give yourself time to work up to it.

Here’s Cynthia’s tutorial. It’s pretty good. But it’s too much of a stretch for a total beginner.

Please don’t make this the first song you ever try to play on ukulele. Put some time into working towards it.

Rainbow Connection

This Kermit the Frog classic from The Muppet Movie (1979) is both heartwarming and deceptively sophisticated.

This Billboard article calls it “a children’s song that doesn’t talk down to children”. “Rainbow Connection” has been enduringly popular for more than four decades. There are some great cover versions, including this one by Willie Nelson.

✅ Ukulele tip: The strumming and melody are accessible, but the full version has 19 chords. Simpler versions exist (as few as five chords), but some purists might raise an eyebrow at the simplified harmonies.

I say: play what brings you joy! Just so you know that your musician brother-in-law may take exception to your simplified version, when you offer it at family events. Some people care a lot about harmony.

I do care about harmony, but I think there are times and places to relax the rules.

I Can Sing A Rainbow

“I Can Sing a Rainbow” was first performed by Peggy Lee in a 1955 film. Though it’s considered a children’s song, it includes some surprisingly tricky Tin Pan Alley chords. I looked for a ukulele version, but decided it’s in the “too-hard” basket.

Here’s Peggy Lee’s version:

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