Hawaii is a renowned destination for music lovers, and its rich musical history is steeped in legend. From the first Polynesian settlers, who brought their instruments and songs with them, to the waves of missionaries, immigrants, and tourists who have influenced the island’s music over the years, Hawaii has a unique musical identity. In this article, you’ll find out how much of an impact Hawaiian music had on the world and was hugely popular back in the ’40s. You will also learn about how different it is from modern-day Hawaiian music and why you should listen to more of it!

Hawaiian Music and Its Culture:

From Traditional to Contemporary:

Traditional Hawaiian music has its roots in 1000 CE, and it can still be heard in today’s rhythms, percussion instruments, chants, and vocal styles. The music is generally simple in structure and both reverent and haunting when performed. Some of these qualities stem from the influence of missionaries who significantly influenced the direction of Hawaiian music. But, today, it’s also possible to hear more different types of Hawaiian music. You can listen to rock ‘n roll, rap, jazz, and a Hawaiian form of reggae known as Jawaiian.

Music Festivals:

Each year, Hawaiian music is celebrated in different festivals that celebrate the uniqueness of Hawaii instruments, musicians, and songs. One of the most famous festivals is the Ukulele Festival at Kapiolani Park Bandstand on Waikiki Beach. It celebrates the Ukulele, which is thought to have come to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants at the end of the 19th century. However, it was only in 1920 when they first used the name “Ka-Ke-ke-pa-koua.”

The Kona Slack Key Festival is a celebration of Hawaiian culture. There are different workshops, performances, and other events that commemorate a uniquely local guitar playing style.

Popular Hawaiian Musicians:

Some of the popular Hawaiian musicians are:

1- Elvis Presley:

Elvis Presley is a popular American singer and actor till date who became one of the most popular entertainers in the world. He is known for his distinctive voice and style of music, which blended elements of country, gospel, rhythm, and blues. Elvis was a versatile artist who quickly rose to fame in the mid-1950s. He was part of many successful films and television shows, and his records sold millions of copies. Elvis died in 1977 at 42, but his legacy continues to live on through his music and films. 

Elvis Presley’s Love for Hawaii:

Elvis Presley gave nine concerts in Hawaii between 1957 and 1973. Presley’s love for Hawaiʻi began in November 1957 when Presley’s first concerts were held at the old Honolulu Stadium, Oahu, and Schofield Army Barracks. Elvis visited the Islands often—to film movies, record music, and vacation with his family—until the late ’70s. His special concert, Aloha From Hawaii Via Satellite, on January 14th, 1973, was his final moment of true brilliance, according to many. Some Presley die-hards may disagree, but the performance reached millions of viewers and is highly praised. He also introduced a soundtrack album called “Blue Hawaii,” One of its tracks, “Can’t help falling in love,” is a favorite of many to date.

2- Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (IZ):

Israel Kamakawio’ole began performing at the Steamboat Lounge in Waikiki, where his parents were employed. Israel was invited onto the stage by the scheduled musical performers to play his Ukulele and developed a love and passion for music quickly afterward. In 1976, he and friend Jerome’ John’ Koko formed the five-member band, The Makaha Sons of Ni’ihau.

His Music:

In 1993, Israel decided to start his solo career and released his first independent album, Facing Future. Facing Future is the number one selling Hawaiian music album in the world to date. In 2005, Facing Future was certified platinum as the first Hawaiian music album, selling over one million copies. His rendition of ‘Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World’ received international acclaim and recognition. National commercials featured his music and blockbuster hits such as 50 First Dates. His tender voice made him a mainstay on the Billboard World Charts long after his death in 1997.

3- Don Ho:

Born on Oahu, Don Ho began his musical career performing at his family’s restaurant and lounge, Honey’s. Honey’s was named after Ho’s mother. After retiring from the air force, Ho became a fixture of Waikiki nightlife, headlining at Duke Kahanamoku’s club with his accompaniment, The Ali’s. Ho was known for his pleasant and infectious personality, which attracted locals and tourists to his performances.

His Music:

Don Ho was a popular singer and musician who is renowned for his work in Hawaiian music. He played the organ and sang pop-infused tunes with his deep, silky voice, achieving international stardom with the release of his single ‘Tiny Bubbles’ in 1966. He became a popular icon, securing television appearances with the likes of Johnny Carson and Andy Williams, and even had his T.V. show on CBS, The Don Ho Show. Ho sadly passed away in 2007 due to heart failure, but he continues to be revered as a seminal figure of contemporary Hawaiian music.

4- Na Leo Pilimehana:

Na Leo Pilimehana is a Hawaiian music group consisting of three childhood friends: Nalani Choy, Lehua Kalima, and Angela Morales. In 1984 their big break came when they entered the statewide talent contest “Brown Bags to Stardom” with their original song, “Local Boys.” Meaning’ voices blending in warmth,’ the group has gone on to enjoy great success in Hawaii and beyond.

Their Music:

After their single “Local Boys” became a huge hit in Hawaii and won them their first Na Hoku Hanohano Award, the band released their first album later that year. However, they took a nine-year hiatus afterward, during which the members pursued further education and started families. Their second album, “Friends,” was finally released in 1993. After a brief hiatus, they returned triumphantly, releasing 23 C.D.s and winning a staggering 22 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. They also started their record label, NLP Music, cementing their status as one of the premier female Hawaiian music groups.

5- Queen Liliuokalani:

Queen Liliuokalani was overthrown as the last sovereign monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Hawaiians knew her for her steadfast commitment to her people and country and for being a prolific songwriter and composer. Her most famous composition, “Aloha’ Oe,” was originally intended as a love song but has since become a symbol of Hawaii’s lost cultural identity following the overthrow and annexation by the U.S. government.

Her Music:

Queen Liliuokalani found solace in composition. While incarcerated at Iolani Palace, she used her music to express her frustration at the injustice done to her and to preserve her people’s history. She translated the Hawaiian creation chant, ‘Kumulipo,’ and transcribed ‘Aloha’ Oe,’ two pieces that have helped keep her memory alive. She is respected and revered by her people for how she used her art to fight for their rights and inspire them.

6- Jack Johnson:

Jack Johnson’s childhood was spent in the surfing community on Oahu. His father, Jeff Johnson, was a professional surfer and made sure he felt included in this world from a young age. Jack quickly developed his skills and became the youngest person to qualify for the Pipeline Masters surfing competition finals at just 17 years old. However, after a traumatic surfing accident, he retired from competitions and devoted his energy to the music.

His Music:

A self-taught musician, Johnson released his first album, Bushfire Fairytales, in 2001. His third album, In Between Dreams, was released in 2005 and made him a household name, thanks to popular singles like ‘Banana Pancakes’ and ‘Better Together.’ The album peaked at number two on Billboard Chart’s Top 200 albums. Johnson has released a total of nine albums, all of which reflect his roots in the mellow, folky, beach bum lifestyle of the island he grew up on.

7- Kimié Kauikeolani Miner:

Kimié Kauikeolani Miner is a professional musician who uses her voice, guitar, and Ukulele to compose reggae and folk-style music with a Hawaiian twist. Kimié is known for her unique blend of musical genres and her ability to evoke the island spirit through her music.

Her Music:

Kimié has been writing songs since 14 and has taught herself how to play guitar. In 2019, she took home a Grammy nomination for the “Hawaiian Lullaby” album, which can be a great choice as a baby shower gift! She also runs the Haku Collective, which produces new Hawaiian music.

Final Thoughts:

Hawaiian music has a rich history full of legends and stories. From the early days of the Hawaiian slack key guitar to the modern era of the Ukulele, Hawaiian music has always been about more than just the tunes. It’s about the people and the culture that created it. We hope you enjoyed learning about some of the legends of Hawaiian music, and we encourage you to continue exploring this amazing genre. If you’re ever in Hawaii, check out some of the live music – you won’t be disappointed. Mahalo!