Hawaii, with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted traditions, has given rise to a unique musical heritage that echoes the spirit of the islands. Renowned for its distinctive sound, Hawaiian music has produced singers who not only celebrate the beauty of the archipelago but also contribute to the global music landscape.
The music of Hawaii is characterized by the ukulele’s gentle strumming, the melodies of slack-key guitar, and the harmonious blend of voices singing in homage to the islands’ rich history and natural wonders. Hawaiian singers often infuse their music with a deep sense of aloha, embodying the spirit of love, community, and connection to the land and sea.
From traditional Hawaiian chants to the modern sounds of contemporary island music, singers from Hawaii carry the torch of a musical legacy that spans generations. Their voices, often accompanied by the gentle sway of hula dancers, transport listeners to the heart of the Pacific, capturing the essence of Hawaii’s diverse cultural influences.
These singers, whether performing traditional hapa haole tunes or experimenting with fusion genres, play a vital role in preserving and evolving Hawaii’s musical identity. Through their artistry, they share the aloha spirit with the world, leaving an indelible mark on the global tapestry of musical expression.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez on October 8, 1985, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a highly acclaimed American singer, songwriter, record producer, and performer. Known for his versatile musical style that blends elements of pop, R&B, funk, and soul, Bruno Mars has become one of the most successful and influential artists in contemporary popular music.
Mars rose to prominence with the release of his debut album, “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” in 2010. The album featured hit singles like “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade,” earning him widespread recognition and multiple Grammy Awards. His subsequent albums, including “Unorthodox Jukebox” (2012) and “24K Magic” (2016), continued to showcase his musical prowess and garnered critical and commercial success.
Known for his dynamic stage presence and charismatic performances, Bruno Mars has also made a mark as a live performer. He has headlined major music events, including the Super Bowl halftime show.
In addition to his solo career, Bruno Mars has collaborated with various artists and has been involved in producing and writing for other musicians. His ability to draw inspiration from a range of musical genres and eras has contributed to his universal appeal.
Bruno Mars’ impact on the music industry is evident in his chart-topping success, numerous awards, and a dedicated fanbase. His dedication to preserving the essence of classic pop and R&B while infusing his own contemporary flair has solidified his position as a major force in popular music.
2. Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman, born on December 29, 1951, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an American singer and actress with a successful career in the music industry. She gained prominence in the 1970s and is best known for her contributions to the world of pop and rock music.
Yvonne Elliman’s breakthrough came when she collaborated with Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice on the rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar.” She played the role of Mary Magdalene in the original Broadway production in 1971 and reprised her role in the 1973 film adaptation. Her rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” became a hit and marked her entry into the music charts.
In 1977, Yvonne Elliman achieved significant solo success with the release of the album “Love Me.” The album featured her most notable hit, “If I Can’t Have You,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was also prominently featured in the soundtrack of the film “Saturday Night Fever.”
Throughout her career, Yvonne Elliman has released several albums and singles, showcasing her versatile voice and musical range. She has continued to perform and remains respected for her contributions to the music industry, particularly in the realms of pop and rock.
3. Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger, born on June 29, 1978, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality. She first gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist of the girl group The Pussycat Dolls.
Scherzinger’s musical career took off with The Pussycat Dolls, a pop and R&B group known for hits like “Don’t Cha” and “Buttons.” Her dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals contributed to the group’s success in the mid-2000s.
Following her time with The Pussycat Dolls, Nicole Scherzinger pursued a solo music career. She released solo albums, including “Killer Love” (2011), which featured hits like “Don’t Hold Your Breath” and “Right There.” Her solo work often blends pop, R&B, and dance influences.
Apart from her music career, Scherzinger has been involved in various television projects. She served as a judge on the reality TV show “The X Factor” in both the U.S. and the U.K. Her appearances on television, along with her music career, have contributed to her status as a well-known and multifaceted entertainer.
Nicole Scherzinger’s success in the entertainment industry is characterized by her talents as a singer, dancer, and television personality. Her ability to excel in various aspects of the entertainment world has made her a recognizable figure globally.
4. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, born on May 18, 1975, in North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii, is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and environmental activist. His music is characterized by its laid-back acoustic sound, reflective lyrics, and a blend of folk, rock, and soft reggae influences. Johnson’s connection to his Hawaiian roots is often evident in the breezy and relaxed vibes that permeate his work.
After gaining attention with his debut album “Brushfire Fairytales” in 2001, featuring the hit single “Flake,” Jack Johnson’s subsequent albums, including “On and On” (2003) and “In Between Dreams” (2005), solidified his status as a prominent figure in the contemporary singer-songwriter genre. His songwriting often delves into themes of love, nature, and personal introspection.
In addition to his musical career, Jack Johnson is known for his commitment to environmental causes. He founded the Kokua Hawaii Foundation, aimed at supporting environmental education in Hawaii. Johnson’s concerts often incorporate eco-friendly practices, reflecting his dedication to sustainability.
Jack Johnson’s influence extends beyond the confines of the music industry; his mellow sound and positive, socially conscious approach have resonated with a broad audience. As a Hawaiian artist, he has become a cultural ambassador, sharing the spirit of aloha with the world through his soulful melodies and meaningful lyrics.
5. James Mercer
James Mercer, born on December 26, 1970, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known as the frontman and primary songwriter for the indie rock band The Shins. Raised in New Mexico, Mercer’s musical journey has been marked by his distinctive voice, intricate songwriting, and contributions to the indie music scene.
Formed in 1996, The Shins gained widespread acclaim with their debut album, “Oh, Inverted World” (2001), featuring tracks like “New Slang” and “Caring Is Creepy.” The band’s unique blend of folk, pop, and Mercer’s introspective lyrics set them apart in the indie rock landscape.
Subsequent albums, including “Chutes Too Narrow” (2003) and “Wincing the Night Away” (2007), further solidified The Shins’ reputation, earning them a devoted fan base. Mercer’s ability to craft melodic and lyrically rich compositions contributed to the band’s critical and commercial success.
In addition to his work with The Shins, James Mercer collaborated with artist Brian Burton (Danger Mouse) to form the side project Broken Bells, exploring a more experimental and electronic sound. The duo released albums like “Broken Bells” (2010) and “After the Disco” (2014).
James Mercer’s influence on the indie rock genre is marked by his nuanced songwriting, evolving musical styles, and his impact on shaping the sound of alternative music in the 21st century.
6. Bob Shane
Bob Shane, born Robert Castle Schoen on February 1, 1934, was an American singer, songwriter, and the last surviving original member of the influential folk group The Kingston Trio. Shane played a key role in the success of the trio during the folk music boom of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Formed in 1957, The Kingston Trio quickly rose to fame with their distinctive harmonies and folk arrangements. Bob Shane, along with Dave Guard and Nick Reynolds, contributed to the group’s signature sound and popularized traditional folk songs and contemporary compositions.
The Kingston Trio’s breakthrough came with the release of their debut album, “The Kingston Trio” (1958), which included the hit single “Tom Dooley.” The success of this album marked the beginning of their influential career in folk music. Over the years, the trio released numerous albums and singles, becoming one of the most successful and enduring folk acts of their time.
Bob Shane’s contributions to The Kingston Trio extended beyond performing. He also played a role in shaping the group’s direction and repertoire. The Kingston Trio’s influence paved the way for the folk revival of the 1960s and left a lasting impact on the American music landscape.
Bob Shane passed away on January 26, 2020, marking the end of an era for The Kingston Trio and the folk music community.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros, born on June 24, 1970, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, is an American singer, songwriter, and educator known for his smooth voice and pop ballads. Medeiros rose to fame in the late 1980s, becoming a teen heartthrob with his hit song “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.”
Released in 1987, “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” became a chart-topping success and established Medeiros as an international sensation. The romantic ballad showcased his soulful vocals and contributed to the pop music landscape of the late ’80s.
In addition to his solo career, Glenn Medeiros collaborated with other artists and continued to release albums throughout the 1990s. His music often featured a blend of pop, R&B, and adult contemporary influences.
Beyond his musical career, Medeiros pursued education and community service. He became a high school educator and later served as a school administrator. His commitment to education, combined with his musical achievements, showcases the multifaceted nature of his contributions to both the entertainment industry and the community.
Glenn Medeiros remains a notable figure in the history of pop music, with his love ballads leaving a lasting imprint on the memories of those who enjoyed his music during the late 1980s.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea, born Rylee Anuheakeʻalaokalokelani Jenkins on December 10, 1985, in Maui, Hawaii, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter known for her soulful and versatile musical style. Anuhea has made a significant impact on the contemporary Hawaiian music scene with her fusion of reggae, pop, R&B, and acoustic sounds.
Anuhea gained recognition with the release of her debut self-titled album, “Anuhea,” in 2009. The album featured popular tracks like “Right Love, Wrong Time” and “Big Deal.” Her music often reflects the laid-back and tropical vibes of her Hawaiian roots, coupled with relatable lyrics that explore love, relationships, and the beauty of the islands.
In the years following her debut, Anuhea continued to release successful albums, including “For Love” (2012) and “Follow Me” (2018). Her soulful voice, songwriting skills, and engaging stage presence have garnered a dedicated fanbase both in Hawaii and internationally.
Anuhea’s contributions to Hawaiian and reggae-infused music showcase her commitment to blending genres while maintaining a connection to her cultural roots. Her work has helped to diversify and modernize the Hawaiian music scene, appealing to a broad audience.
9. William Kahaiali’i
William Kahaiali’i, commonly known as Willie K, was a highly acclaimed Hawaiian musician and entertainer. Born on October 17, 1960, in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, Willie K was known for his versatile musical talents, spanning multiple genres such as Hawaiian, rock, blues, and jazz.
Willie K’s musical journey began at a young age. He came from a musical family and started playing the ‘ukulele at the age of 10, later mastering various instruments, including the guitar, bass, and drums. His ability to effortlessly blend different musical styles made him a unique and influential figure in the Hawaiian music scene.
With a powerful voice and extraordinary guitar skills, Willie K gained widespread recognition for his live performances, showcasing a fusion of traditional Hawaiian sounds and contemporary genres. His albums, including “Kahaiali’i” and “Warehouse Blues,” reflected his diverse musical influences.
In addition to his solo career, Willie K collaborated with numerous artists and contributed to various music projects. He was not only a respected musician but also a cultural ambassador, promoting Hawaiian music and culture globally.
Willie K’s legacy extends beyond his musical achievements; he was beloved for his warm personality and dedication to preserving and evolving Hawaiian music traditions. His passing in 2020 left a significant void in the Hawaiian music community, but his contributions continue to be celebrated and remembered.
10. Gabby Pahinui
Gabby Pahinui, born Philip Kunia Pahinui on April 22, 1921, in Honolulu, Hawaii, was a highly influential Hawaiian slack-key guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Renowned as a master of the slack-key guitar, Gabby Pahinui played a crucial role in popularizing and preserving traditional Hawaiian music.
Pahinui’s musical journey began in the 1940s, and he became a central figure in the Hawaiian cultural renaissance of the 1970s. His innovative approach to slack-key guitar, a traditional Hawaiian fingerstyle guitar playing, helped bring attention to this distinctive genre both locally and internationally.
Gabby Pahinui collaborated with other notable musicians, including his sons, and played a pivotal role in the development of the “Hawaiian Renaissance” movement. His influential recordings, including the album “Rabbit Island Music Festival” (1972), showcased his mastery of slack-key guitar and vocal skills.
In addition to his solo career, Pahinui was a member of the influential group “The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band,” contributing to the broader recognition of slack-key guitar and traditional Hawaiian music.
Gabby Pahinui’s impact extends beyond his musical contributions. He is celebrated for preserving and revitalizing Hawaiian cultural heritage, particularly through his dedication to slack-key guitar and the promotion of traditional island music. Gabby Pahinui passed away on October 13, 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Hawaiian music.
Edward Tomlin 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.
