The ukulele, a small instrument with a big heart, has long been a symbol of joy, relaxation, and the spirit of the islands. But don’t let its unassuming size fool you—this four-stringed wonder has captured the imagination of musicians and audiences alike, transcending genres and cultures. From the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii to the bustling streets of London, the ukulele has left an indelible mark on the world of music, thanks to the extraordinary talents who have mastered its charms. In this article, we’re diving into the vibrant world of ukulele music to celebrate the top 15 most popular ukulele players of all time. These artists have not only showcased the ukulele’s versatility but also pushed its boundaries, inspiring millions with their unique styles and unforgettable performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the ukulele’s enchanting sounds, join us on this melodious journey as we explore the lives, legacies, and music of the greatest ukulele players the world has ever seen. Get ready to strum along with the masters and discover the magic of the ukulele like never before!
1. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (“Iz”)
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, affectionately known as “Iz,” is a Hawaiian icon whose voice transcends the borders of music and culture. His gentle, soulful medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” became a global phenomenon, introducing millions to the beauty of the ukulele. Iz’s voice is both powerful and tender, with an uncanny ability to evoke deep emotion. His music carries the essence of Aloha, merging the resilience of his native Hawaiian roots with a universal message of peace and love. Despite his untimely passing at age 38, Iz’s legacy lives on, not just in Hawaii but worldwide. His rendition of these classic songs has become a timeless anthem, a soothing balm for the soul that continues to touch hearts across generations.
2. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is a ukulele virtuoso whose talent has redefined what the instrument can do. Often referred to as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Jake’s innovative approach and technical prowess have elevated the ukulele to new heights. His rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, showcasing the ukulele’s ability to convey deep emotion and complexity. Jake’s music spans genres from classical to rock, jazz, and beyond, making him a true ambassador for the ukulele. His live performances are electrifying, filled with passion and an infectious energy that leaves audiences in awe. Shimabukuro’s influence has inspired a new generation of ukulele players, proving that this small instrument can have a huge impact.
3. Eddie Kamae
Eddie Kamae was more than just a ukulele player; he was a cultural guardian and musical innovator. As a founding member of the legendary Sons of Hawaii, Kamae played a pivotal role in the Hawaiian Renaissance, a movement to revive and preserve Hawaiian culture. His mastery of the ukulele was matched only by his deep knowledge of Hawaiian history and storytelling. Kamae’s music is rich with the traditions of his ancestors, yet his arrangements were groundbreaking, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with innovative techniques. His dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture extended beyond music; he was also a filmmaker and historian. Eddie Kamae’s contributions to Hawaiian music and culture are immeasurable, making him a revered figure in the islands and beyond.
4. Roy Smeck
Roy Smeck, known as the “Wizard of the Strings,” was a multi-instrumentalist who helped popularize the ukulele in the early 20th century. His dazzling performances on the ukulele, along with the banjo, guitar, and steel guitar, captivated audiences worldwide. Smeck’s showmanship was matched by his technical skill, as he could effortlessly glide across the strings, producing sounds that were both complex and delightful. He was a pioneer of the early music video, appearing in numerous short films that showcased his incredible talent. Roy Smeck’s influence on the ukulele and popular music is profound, and his legacy as a performer and innovator continues to inspire musicians today.
5. Herb Ohta (“Ohta-San”)
Herb Ohta, better known as Ohta-San, is a ukulele legend whose smooth, melodic style has made him a beloved figure in Hawaiian music. Born in Honolulu, Ohta-San was a student of the great Eddie Kamae and quickly developed his own unique sound. His playing is characterized by its fluidity and grace, often described as “the violin of the islands.” Ohta-San has recorded over 60 albums, showcasing his versatility in genres ranging from traditional Hawaiian to jazz and pop. His influence on the ukulele is immeasurable, inspiring countless players with his expressive style and technical mastery. Ohta-San’s music is a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation, making him a true master of the ukulele.
6. James Hill
James Hill has taken the ukulele to places it has never been before. This Canadian musician is known for his innovative techniques and genre-defying performances that push the boundaries of what the ukulele can do. Hill’s approach to the ukulele is anything but conventional; he has used the instrument to cover everything from classical compositions to rock anthems, often incorporating beatboxing, percussion, and other unconventional methods. His virtuosity on the ukulele is matched by his creativity, making him one of the most exciting performers in the ukulele world today. James Hill’s music is a testament to the versatility of the ukulele, proving that it is an instrument capable of both complexity and fun.
7. Bill Tapia
Bill Tapia, often called “Uncle Bill,” was a living link to the early days of Hawaiian music. Born in 1908, Tapia was a centenarian who continued to perform well into his 100s, making him one of the oldest active musicians in history. His career spanned nearly a century, during which he played with legends like Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong. Tapia’s ukulele playing was a blend of jazz, swing, and Hawaiian styles, reflecting the many musical eras he lived through. His charm and wit made him a beloved figure in the music community, and his performances were always filled with joy and vitality. Bill Tapia’s life and music are a testament to the enduring power of the ukulele and the spirit of Aloha.
8. Clara Rockmore
Though Clara Rockmore is primarily recognized as the world’s foremost theremin virtuoso, she was also a talented ukulele player who brought a classical sensibility to the instrument. Rockmore’s background in classical music, particularly her studies as a violinist, gave her a unique approach to the ukulele, treating it with the same seriousness and precision as any other classical instrument. Her delicate, nuanced playing style was ahead of its time, introducing audiences to the ukulele as a vehicle for more sophisticated music. Clara Rockmore’s contributions to music, both with the theremin and the ukulele, were groundbreaking, and her influence continues to be felt in the world of classical and experimental music.
9. George Formby
George Formby was a British entertainer who became synonymous with the ukulele during the early to mid-20th century. With his cheeky grin, rapid-fire strumming, and comedic songs, Formby was a beloved figure in Britain and beyond. His signature tune, “When I’m Cleaning Windows,” became an anthem of sorts, showcasing his unique blend of humor and musical talent. Though his style was often lighthearted, Formby was a highly skilled ukulele player, known for his fast-paced strumming and use of syncopation. His films and records made the ukulele a household name, and his influence on British popular culture is undeniable. George Formby’s legacy as a performer and ukulele player remains strong, with his music continuing to bring smiles to faces around the world.
10. Taimane Gardner
Taimane Gardner is a modern ukulele sensation whose fiery performances and genre-blending style have captivated audiences worldwide. Born and raised in Honolulu, Taimane’s music is a reflection of her diverse influences, ranging from classical and flamenco to rock and pop. Her stage presence is electric, often described as mesmerizing, as she effortlessly transitions between delicate fingerpicking and intense strumming. Taimane’s music is a celebration of the ukulele’s versatility, pushing the instrument beyond its traditional boundaries. Her performances are not just concerts but experiences, filled with passion, energy, and an undeniable connection to her Hawaiian roots. Taimane Gardner is a true force in the ukulele world, and her star continues to rise.
11. Arthur Godfrey
Arthur Godfrey was a pioneering figure in American broadcasting who played a crucial role in popularizing the ukulele during the 1950s. As the host of several popular radio and television shows, Godfrey introduced the ukulele to millions of Americans, often performing live on air. His easygoing, folksy style made the ukulele seem approachable and fun, leading to a surge in its popularity. Godfrey was also a shrewd businessman, promoting and endorsing his own line of ukuleles, which became widely popular. Though primarily known as a broadcaster, Arthur Godfrey’s influence on the ukulele is significant, helping to cement its place in American popular culture.
12. Lyle Ritz
Lyle Ritz was a jazz bassist who is credited with bringing the ukulele into the world of jazz. Known as the “Father of Jazz Ukulele,” Ritz’s playing was characterized by its sophisticated chord progressions and melodic lines, which were groundbreaking at the time. His album “How About Uke?” released in 1957, is considered a classic and a must-listen for any serious ukulele player. Ritz’s influence extended beyond jazz; he was also a prolific session musician, contributing to countless recordings, including the famous “Pet Sounds” by The Beach Boys. Lyle Ritz’s work with the ukulele has had a lasting impact, inspiring generations of musicians to explore the instrument’s potential in jazz and beyond.
13. Don Ho
Don Ho was the quintessential Hawaiian entertainer, known for his smooth voice, charismatic stage presence, and, of course, his ukulele playing. Ho became a global sensation in the 1960s with his hit song “Tiny Bubbles,” which became an anthem of the Hawaiian Islands. His nightly performances in Waikiki drew tourists from around the world, eager to experience the magic of his music. While Ho’s style was often laid-back and easygoing, his musicality and connection to Hawaiian culture were always at the forefront. Don Ho’s influence on Hawaiian music and culture is immense, and his legacy as a ukulele player and entertainer continues to be celebrated.
14. Tiny Tim
Tiny Tim was a unique and unforgettable figure in the world of music, known for his falsetto voice and his ukulele. His rendition of “Tiptoe Through the Tulips” became an unlikely hit in the 1960s, making him a household name. With his eccentric appearance and distinctive voice, Tiny Tim was often seen as a novelty act, but his love for music, particularly the songs of the early 20th century, was genuine and deep. His ukulele playing, though often overshadowed by his vocal style, was an integral part of his performances. Tiny Tim’s quirky, yet sincere approach to music has made him a cult figure, and his influence on the ukulele continues to be felt, especially in the world of alternative and indie music.
15. Kamaka Brown
Kamaka Brown is a storyteller, comedian, and ukulele player who has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture. Born and raised in Hawaii, Brown’s performances are a blend of music, humor, and storytelling, all centered around the ukulele. His deep connection to his Hawaiian heritage is evident in every note he plays and every story he tells. Brown’s ukulele playing is traditional yet fresh, capturing the spirit of the islands while also appealing to modern audiences. His work in preserving Hawaiian music and culture is invaluable, making him a beloved figure in the Hawaiian community and beyond. Kamaka Brown’s contributions to the ukulele and Hawaiian culture ensure that the traditions of the past will continue to thrive in the future.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
