Hawaii, with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene beaches, has always been a place that resonates with the spirit of music. In this tropical paradise, the sweet melodies of ukuleles and the rhythmic beats of traditional hula dances have been an integral part of the local culture for centuries. As a result, it’s no surprise that Hawaii has produced a remarkable array of talented and influential singers who have left their mark on the global music stage. From the honeyed voices of traditional Hawaiian crooners to contemporary pop sensations and reggae stars, the islands have nurtured an impressive diversity of musical talents.
In this article, we embark on a musical journey through the Aloha State to explore the lives and careers of the “Top 10 Famous Singers from Hawaii.” These artists have not only showcased their extraordinary vocal abilities but have also shared the unique spirit and culture of Hawaii with the world. Their success stories, musical genres, and contributions to the global music scene make them truly exceptional. So, let’s dive into the musical tapestry of Hawaii and celebrate the voices that have emerged from this tropical paradise, enchanting audiences far and wide.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer known for his dynamic performances and versatile musical style. Born in Hawaii in 1985, Mars began his music career as a child performer in his family’s band, The Love Notes. He later moved to Los Angeles and became a successful songwriter and producer, working with artists like Flo Rida, B.o.B, and CeeLo Green. Mars released his debut album, “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” in 2010, which featured the hit singles “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade.” Since then, he has become one of the best-selling artists of all time, with multiple chart-topping albums and singles to his name. Mars has also received critical acclaim for his live performances, which often feature elaborate staging, choreography, and a large backing band. His music incorporates elements of pop, R&B, funk, soul, and reggae, and he has been compared to iconic performers like Michael Jackson and Prince.
2. Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman is an American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1970s with her hit songs “If I Can’t Have You” and “Love Me.” Born in Hawaii in 1951, Elliman began her music career as a backup singer for artists like Eric Clapton and Barry Gibb. She signed a solo recording contract in 1971 and released her debut album, “Food of Love,” two years later. Elliman’s soulful vocals and emotive performances helped her gain a devoted following, and she went on to release several more albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to her music career, Elliman has also acted in several films and stage productions, including the original Broadway production of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” in which she played the role of Mary Magdalene.
3. Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the pop group, The Pussycat Dolls. Born in Hawaii in 1978, Scherzinger began her music career as a member of the girl group, Eden’s Crush, before joining The Pussycat Dolls in 2003. The group’s debut album, “PCD,” spawned several hit singles, including “Don’t Cha” and “Buttons,” and helped establish Scherzinger as a dynamic performer with a powerful voice and sultry stage presence. She later launched a successful solo career, releasing albums like “Killer Love” and “Big Fat Lie.” Scherzinger has also appeared on several reality television shows, including “The X Factor” and “Dancing with the Stars,” and has acted in films like “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” and “Men in Black 3.”
4. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his laid-back acoustic sound and socially conscious lyrics. Born in Hawaii in 1975, Johnson began his music career while attending college in California, playing in coffeehouses and recording his own music. He gained national recognition with the release of his debut album, “Brushfire Fairytales,” in 2001, which featured the hit single “Flake.” Johnson’s music often incorporates elements of folk, rock, and reggae, and he is known for his gentle guitar playing and introspective lyrics. In addition to his music career, Johnson is also an environmental activist and philanthropist, supporting causes like ocean conservation and renewable energy.
5. James Mercer
James Mercer is an American singer-songwriter and musician best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the indie rock band, The Shins. Born in Hawaii in 1970, Mercer formed The Shins in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1996. The band gained critical acclaim with the release of their debut album, “Oh, Inverted World,” in 2001, which featured the hit single “New Slang.” Mercer’s distinctive vocals, evocative lyrics, and intricate guitar playing helped establish The Shins as one of the leading bands in the indie rock scene. The band has released several more albums over the years, including “Chutes Too Narrow” and “Wincing the Night Away,” which have been praised for their catchy melodies, poetic lyrics, and eclectic musical influences. In addition to his work with The Shins, Mercer has collaborated with other artists and musicians, including Danger Mouse, Modest Mouse, and Broken Bells. He continues to be a respected and influential figure in the indie rock world.
6. Bob Shane
Bob Shane was an American singer and songwriter who was best known for being the founder of the iconic folk group, The Kingston Trio. Born in 1934 in California, Shane had a passion for music from a young age and began performing in coffee houses and clubs while still in high school. He formed The Kingston Trio in 1957 with fellow musicians Dave Guard and Nick Reynolds, and they went on to become one of the most popular and influential folk groups of the 1960s. Shane’s smooth and distinctive vocals were a hallmark of the group’s sound, and he also contributed many original songs to their repertoire. Some of their most famous hits include “Tom Dooley” and “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” Shane continued to perform and record with various incarnations of The Kingston Trio until his death in 2020, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of folk music.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros is a Hawaiian singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1980s with his hit single, “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” Born in 1970 on the island of Kauai, Medeiros began singing and playing the ukulele at a young age. He won a local talent competition in 1986 with his rendition of the song “Stay,” which caught the attention of a record executive and led to his signing with MCA Records. “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” became a worldwide hit in 1987, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Medeiros went on to release several more albums and singles over the next decade, but never achieved the same level of success as his debut. He eventually transitioned to a career in education, becoming a high school principal and superintendent in Hawaii.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea is a Hawaiian singer and songwriter who blends elements of reggae, pop, and acoustic folk into her music. Born in 1985 on the island of Maui, Anuhea began playing the guitar and writing songs while in college. She released her debut album, “Anuhea,” in 2009, which spawned the hit single “Higher Than the Clouds.” Her music has been praised for its catchy melodies, soulful vocals, and positive, uplifting lyrics. Anuhea has become a popular performer in Hawaii and has also gained a following on the mainland, touring extensively and sharing the stage with artists like Jack Johnson and Ziggy Marley. She has released several more albums since her debut, including 2019’s “Queen Alone,” which features collaborations with other Hawaiian musicians and showcases Anuhea’s versatility as an artist.
9. William Kahaiali’i
William Kahaiali’i, also known as Willie K, was a Hawaiian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who was renowned for his ability to play a wide variety of musical styles, including Hawaiian, rock, blues, and jazz. Born in 1960 on the island of Maui, Willie K grew up in a musical family and began performing at a young age. He released his debut album, “Kahaiali’i,” in 1992, which featured a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs and original compositions. Willie K’s powerful and soulful voice, combined with his virtuosic guitar playing and charismatic stage presence, made him a beloved figure in the Hawaiian music scene. He continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout his career and collaborated with a wide range of artists, including B.B. King, Prince, and Santana. Willie K passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hawaii’s most talented and influential musicians.
10. Gabby Pahinui
Gabby Pahinui was a Hawaiian musician and singer who is widely considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of Hawaiian music. Born in 1921 in Honolulu, Gabby Pahinui began playing the guitar at a young age and went on to become a master of the slack-key guitar style, which involves tuning the strings of the guitar to create a unique, open sound. Pahinui’s music blended elements of traditional Hawaiian music with country, blues, and jazz, and his virtuosic playing and soulful vocals made him a beloved figure in Hawaii and beyond. He played in numerous bands and recorded many albums over the course of his career, including the landmark album “Gabby” in 1972, which helped to revive interest in traditional Hawaiian music. Pahinui also mentored a new generation of Hawaiian musicians, including his sons Bla and Cyril, who went on to become accomplished musicians in their own right. Gabby Pahinui passed away in 1980, but his influence on Hawaiian music continues to be felt to this day, and he remains a beloved and revered figure in Hawaiian culture.
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.
