Hawaii isn’t just a paradise of sun-kissed beaches, swaying palms, and volcanic beauty—it’s a vibrant wellspring of musical talent that has captivated the world for generations. From the soulful strum of a slack-key guitar to the infectious rhythm of island-infused pop, Hawaii has produced some of the most iconic and influential voices in music history. Whether rooted in traditional mele (songs) or breaking sound barriers on global stages, these artists represent the heart and soul of the islands.
In this list of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from Hawaii, we celebrate the voices that have not only defined Hawaiian music but have also left their mark on the world. Some are international superstars whose names light up billboards from New York to Tokyo. Others are cultural guardians, keeping ancient traditions alive through song and chant. Each artist carries with them the mana (spiritual energy) of their homeland, blending passion, storytelling, and aloha into every note.
So whether you’re a lifelong fan of Hawaiian music or just discovering its rich soundscape, get ready to be inspired, moved, and maybe even transported to the islands themselves. Let’s dive into the voices that define Hawaii—past, present, and future.
1. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (“IZ”)
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, lovingly known as “IZ,” remains a symbol of Hawaiian pride and soul. Born and raised on the island of Oʻahu, IZ was more than a musician—he was a voice for his people, a gentle giant with a message that transcended borders. His tender rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” continues to move millions around the globe, not only for its beauty but for the warmth and longing in his voice. With just a ukulele and his spirit, he created music that was at once simple and profoundly emotional. Beyond his artistry, IZ was a fierce advocate for Hawaiian independence and cultural preservation. Despite health challenges—he weighed over 700 pounds—he remained dedicated to sharing his message of love, land, and unity. His music, which blends traditional Hawaiian elements with universal themes, created a bridge between the islands and the rest of the world. Even after his passing in 1997, his legacy endures, his voice floating through films, commercials, and the hearts of those who find peace in his melodies. IZ gave Hawaii a global anthem, and in doing so, ensured that his aloha would echo forever.
2. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, the soft-spoken singer-songwriter from the North Shore of Oʻahu, embodies the easygoing, surf-soaked rhythm of island life. Originally a professional surfer, Johnson turned to music after a serious injury, swapping his board for a guitar without losing any of the wave-like flow in his artistry. His breakout album, Brushfire Fairytales (2001), introduced the world to his laid-back vocals and thoughtful, often introspective lyrics. With hits like “Better Together,” “Banana Pancakes,” and “Upside Down,” Johnson became a household name—especially for those who appreciate life’s quieter, more reflective moments. But Jack is more than a mellow musician; he’s a passionate environmentalist. Through his Kokua Hawaii Foundation, he’s spearheaded sustainable practices in schools and the music industry, making green touring a real possibility. His concerts aren’t just performances—they’re eco-conscious events that reflect his deep respect for the Earth. Johnson’s blend of acoustic folk, soft rock, and island soul has made him a global ambassador for a lifestyle rooted in simplicity, balance, and nature. He may not be flashy, but his influence runs deep. In an increasingly noisy world, Jack Johnson offers a breath of fresh, ocean-salted air.
3. Don Ho
Don Ho wasn’t just a performer—he was the embodiment of Hawaiian entertainment for an entire generation. Born in Honolulu and raised in Kaneohe, Ho made his first musical mark in his mother’s bar before becoming a full-fledged lounge legend. With his signature velvet voice and charismatic presence, he captivated both tourists and locals in Waikiki’s vibrant nightlife scene. His 1966 hit “Tiny Bubbles” became more than a song—it became an anthem of easy island living, charming mainland America with the promise of tropical romance and aloha spirit. Don Ho’s appeal went far beyond Hawaii’s shores; he headlined in Las Vegas, made numerous television appearances, and brought Hawaiian hospitality into millions of American homes. Though some critics called his act kitschy, Don knew exactly what he was doing—creating a mood, an escape, a little slice of paradise. Behind the scenes, he supported local causes and nurtured new Hawaiian talent, leaving a legacy that transcends showbiz. Don Ho wasn’t just Hawaii’s crooner; he was its cultural ambassador, helping shape the world’s image of the islands. With every “tiny bubble,” he reminded us that joy can be found in the smallest, most sparkling moments.
4. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, is living proof that Hawaii doesn’t just produce laid-back island sounds—it births world-class entertainers. Raised in a musical family, Bruno got his start impersonating Elvis Presley in Waikiki shows as a child, showcasing a natural flair for performance that would later define his career. From the moment he burst onto the scene with 2010’s “Just the Way You Are,” Mars has never looked back. Blending elements of funk, soul, pop, R&B, and even doo-wop, he’s created a throwback sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Smash hits like “Uptown Funk,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” and “24K Magic” have earned him shelves full of Grammys and a reputation as one of the most dynamic live performers of his generation. Despite his global fame, Bruno never lost touch with his Hawaiian roots—the rhythm, warmth, and joy of the islands subtly pulse through his music. A master showman in the vein of Michael Jackson and Prince, Bruno brings charisma, style, and vocal firepower to every stage he graces. He’s more than a pop star—he’s a cultural phenomenon whose journey from Honolulu to Hollywood inspires dreamers everywhere.
5. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is more than just a voice—he’s a living embodiment of Hawaiian culture and tradition. Born and raised on Maui, Reichel emerged in the 1990s with a mission: to celebrate and preserve Hawaiian language, music, and dance. His debut album Kawaipunahele was a revelation—emotionally rich, linguistically authentic, and musically stunning. His smooth, expressive vocals bring ancient stories to life, often sung in Hawaiian and accompanied by the graceful movements of hula. Reichel is also a kumu hula, or hula teacher, and brings the same reverence and discipline to his music that he does to dance. While his songs are steeped in tradition, he skillfully blends them with contemporary instrumentation, allowing them to resonate with modern audiences without losing cultural integrity. He’s received multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and remains one of Hawaii’s most respected musical figures. Reichel’s work extends beyond performance—he is also an educator and cultural advocate, fostering a deeper understanding of Hawaiian identity. Each song, each performance, feels like a heartfelt offering to his ancestors and community. Kealiʻi Reichel doesn’t just sing about Hawaii—he carries its soul in every note.
6. Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom stands as one of Hawaii’s most commanding vocal forces, a singer whose voice effortlessly bridges the sacred and the soulful. Born into the musical Gilliom family on Maui, Amy was mentored by her grandmother Jennie Napua Woodd, a renowned Hawaiian vocalist who graced both stage and screen. Amy’s early collaborations with the late Willie K helped catapult her into the spotlight, forging a sound that fused traditional Hawaiian mele with jazz, blues, and even opera. Her voice—soaring and emotive—can shift from heart-rending falsetto to bold theatrical flair, making her a dynamic presence in any genre. Over her celebrated career, she has collected numerous Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and Grammy nominations, earning respect not only for her technical brilliance but also for her cultural dedication. Whether she’s performing an ancient chant or a jazz ballad, Amy weaves storytelling, history, and heart into every note. Offstage, she champions Native Hawaiian rights and heritage, using her platform to uplift and educate. Amy Hānaialiʻi isn’t just a performer—she’s a keeper of tradition, a creative innovator, and one of Hawaii’s most enduring musical treasures.
7. Hapa
Hapa is more than a band—it’s an emotional journey through the heart of Hawaii. Formed by Barry Flanagan and Keliʻi Kanealiʻi, Hapa became a phenomenon by blending traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary folk and world influences. Their 1993 self-titled debut album was a landmark release, quickly becoming one of Hawaii’s top-selling independent records. Known for their lush harmonies, intricate guitar work, and poetic lyrics, Hapa crafted songs that feel like sonic postcards from paradise. Tracks like “Lei Pikake” and “Olinda Road” conjure vivid images of misty mountains, crashing waves, and quiet moments of island life. Though the lineup has changed over time, Flanagan has continued to carry the Hapa vision forward, collaborating with new voices while maintaining the band’s signature sound. Hapa’s music has been featured in films, documentaries, and hula competitions, resonating with listeners both in Hawaii and around the globe. Their work offers a deeply emotional connection to the islands for those near and far, making them musical ambassadors of aloha. To listen to Hapa is to experience Hawaii—not just as a place, but as a feeling.
8. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is to the ukulele what Jimi Hendrix was to the electric guitar—an innovator who redefined the instrument’s potential. Born and raised in Honolulu, Jake began strumming the uke at age four and quickly developed a style that defies convention. His big break came in the early 2000s when a video of his masterful rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, captivating millions with its technical brilliance and emotional intensity. But Jake isn’t just a viral sensation—he’s a classically trained virtuoso whose compositions span jazz, rock, classical, and flamenco. Collaborations with legends like Yo-Yo Ma, Ziggy Marley, and Béla Fleck have cemented his reputation as a world-class musician. Despite global fame, Jake remains grounded and deeply connected to his roots, often speaking about the spiritual power of music and its ability to unite people. His concerts are both breathtaking and intimate, filled with awe-inspiring solos and humble storytelling. Jake Shimabukuro has elevated the ukulele from a beloved local staple to a respected global instrument, all while carrying the spirit of Hawaii in every note.
9. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins, known simply as Anuhea, brings a fresh, heartfelt energy to modern Hawaiian music. Born on Maui and raised in a creative, musical household, Anuhea found her voice by blending island sounds with acoustic soul, reggae, and R&B. Her 2009 debut single “Simple Love Song” introduced her to a wider audience and instantly marked her as a new kind of island artist—soulful, relatable, and effortlessly cool. With her honest lyrics and warm, textured voice, she crafts songs that speak to love, growth, heartbreak, and hope. Anuhea’s music feels like a personal conversation, full of island breeze and emotional depth. Over the years, she’s earned multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and built a devoted fanbase from Hawai‘i to the mainland and beyond. She’s also used her platform to support educational and cultural initiatives, always mindful of the community that shaped her. Whether performing barefoot on stage or collaborating with international artists, Anuhea radiates authenticity. She’s not just making music—she’s telling the story of a new generation of islanders, proud of their roots but unafraid to explore new horizons.
10. Ledward Kaʻapana
Ledward Kaʻapana is a true master of Hawaiian slack-key guitar, a living legend whose joyful playing and soulful singing have delighted audiences for decades. Born in the remote village of Kalapana on Hawai‘i Island, Ledward was raised in a family where music was a way of life. Surrounded by traditional Hawaiian sounds, he developed a finger-picking style that’s as intricate as it is effortless. Whether performing solo or as a member of the iconic group Hui ‘Ohana, Ledward’s musicianship is marked by warmth, humor, and technical brilliance. His falsetto singing complements his guitar work, offering a glimpse into old-style Hawaiian music that feels both timeless and welcoming. Over the years, he has earned numerous Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and Grammy nominations, but his humility remains as consistent as his smile. Ledward’s music evokes the feeling of sitting on a lanai at sunset, listening to stories passed down through generations. His influence stretches far and wide, inspiring a new wave of slack-key players while preserving the soul of Hawaiian musical tradition. Ledward Kaʻapana doesn’t just play music—he invites you home.
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.
