Hawaii, the tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle, has also gifted the world with a plethora of talented musicians. From traditional Hawaiian music to contemporary pop, these artists have made their mark on the music industry, captivating audiences with their unique sounds and heartfelt performances. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 most popular singers from Hawaii, exploring their incredible journeys, their musical achievements, and the impact they’ve had on the music world and beyond.
1. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, affectionately known as “IZ,” was a Hawaiian musician, singer, and songwriter who gained international recognition for his soulful and emotive ukulele performances. Born in Honolulu, IZ’s music was deeply rooted in his Hawaiian heritage, and he became a prominent figure in the Hawaiian sovereignty movement. His most famous work, a medley of “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World,” has become an iconic representation of Hawaiian music, featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. IZ’s gentle voice, combined with his skilled ukulele playing, created a sound that was both comforting and uplifting, resonating with listeners around the world. Throughout his career, IZ released several successful albums, including “Ka ‘Ano’i,” “Facing Future,” and “Alone in IZ World,” which showcased his unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music, reggae, and modern pop. Despite facing numerous health challenges, including a struggle with obesity, IZ remained a beloved figure in the Hawaiian music community until his passing in 1997. His legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians worldwide, cementing his status as one of the most iconic and influential Hawaiian artists of all time.
2. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer who has become one of the most successful and versatile artists of his generation. With his smooth vocals, infectious beats, and retro-inspired style, Mars has released a string of hit albums and singles that have earned him critical acclaim and a massive global following. His most famous works, such as “Just the Way You Are,” “Uptown Funk,” and “24K Magic,” have become pop culture phenomenons, celebrated for their musical innovation, irresistible hooks, and dynamic performances. Throughout his career, Mars has showcased his ability to seamlessly blend various genres, from R&B and soul to pop and funk, creating a sound that is both fresh and nostalgic. He has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Cardi B and Anderson .Paak to Mark Ronson and Beyoncé, further demonstrating his versatility and appeal. In addition to his musical achievements, Mars has also made a name for himself as a captivating live performer, delivering high-energy shows that showcase his incredible vocal range, dance moves, and charisma. With his undeniable talent, his infectious spirit, and his enduring popularity, Bruno Mars has cemented his status as one of the greatest and most influential artists of his time, and a shining example of the musical talent that emerges from Hawaii.
3. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is a singer, songwriter, and musician known for his laid-back, acoustic style and his socially conscious lyrics. With his mellow vocals, intricate guitar work, and keen observational skills, Johnson has released a string of successful albums that have resonated with fans around the world. His most famous works, such as “Better Together,” “Banana Pancakes,” and “Upside Down,” have become beloved classics, celebrated for their warmth, sincerity, and simple yet profound messages. Throughout his career, Johnson has used his music as a platform to promote environmental awareness, social justice, and community engagement, often partnering with non-profit organizations and participating in various philanthropic endeavors. He has also been a strong advocate for sustainable living and has taken steps to minimize the environmental impact of his tours and performances. In addition to his music career, Johnson is an avid surfer and filmmaker, and his love for the ocean and nature often shines through in his lyrics and artistic vision. With his genuine spirit, his commitment to making a positive difference, and his timeless, feel-good music, Jack Johnson has become one of the most beloved and respected artists to emerge from Hawaii, and a true ambassador of the aloha spirit.
4. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning singer, actress, and comedian who has enjoyed a career spanning over five decades. Known for her powerful vocals, her witty sense of humor, and her flamboyant stage presence, Midler has released numerous hit albums and singles, showcasing her versatility as a performer and her ability to captivate audiences across multiple genres. Her most famous works, such as “The Rose,” “Wind Beneath My Wings,” and “From a Distance,” have become timeless classics, celebrated for their emotional depth, soaring melodies, and Midler’s unparalleled vocal delivery. Throughout her career, Midler has also made a name for herself as a talented actress, appearing in films such as “The Rose,” “Beaches,” and “The First Wives Club,” and earning critical acclaim for her performances on stage and screen. She has been a tireless advocate for various social and environmental causes, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for organizations such as the New York Restoration Project and the Adopt-a-Highway program. With her undeniable talent, her quick wit, and her enduring legacy, Bette Midler has cemented her status as one of the most iconic and beloved entertainers of all time, and a true trailblazer in the world of music and beyond.
5. Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger, born Nicole Prescovia Elikolani Valiente in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a singer, songwriter, dancer, and television personality who rose to fame as the lead singer of the popular girl group, The Pussycat Dolls. With her powerful vocals, her dynamic stage presence, and her undeniable charisma, Scherzinger has released a string of hit singles and albums, both as a solo artist and with The Pussycat Dolls. Her most famous works, such as “Don’t Cha,” “Stickwitu,” and “Buttons,” have become dance-pop classics, celebrated for their catchy hooks, sexy lyrics, and high-energy performances. Throughout her career, Scherzinger has also made a name for herself as a talented dancer and choreographer, often incorporating complex and athletic routines into her music videos and live shows. She has also worked as a television personality, serving as a judge on shows like “The X Factor” and “The Masked Singer,” and showcasing her quick wit, infectious personality, and keen eye for talent. In addition to her entertainment career, Scherzinger has been involved in various charitable causes, including campaigns to raise awareness for breast cancer and support for UNICEF. With her undeniable talent, her magnetic presence, and her enduring popularity, Nicole Scherzinger has become one of the most successful and influential artists to emerge from Hawaii, and a true icon of the pop music world.
6. Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a singer and actress who gained prominence in the 1970s for her powerful vocals and her contributions to some of the most iconic musical productions of the era. Elliman’s most famous works include her rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” from the rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which earned her widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination, and her disco hit “If I Can’t Have You,” which became a global sensation and showcased her ability to adapt to different musical styles. Throughout her career, Elliman collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Eric Clapton and Bee Gees to Stevie Wonder and Donna Summer, and her vocals can be heard on numerous hit albums and soundtracks. She also appeared in several films and television shows, including “Saturday Night Fever” and “Hawaii Five-O,” further cementing her status as a versatile and influential entertainer. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including a struggle with substance abuse, Elliman’s talent and contributions to the music industry have earned her a place in the hearts of fans around the world, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.
7. Anuhea
Anuhea, born Rylee Anuheake’alaokalokelani Jenkins in Maui, Hawaii, is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for her soulful vocals, her reggae-influenced sound, and her heartfelt lyrics. With her unique blend of Hawaiian, pop, and R&B elements, Anuhea has released several successful albums and singles that have earned her a devoted following in Hawaii and beyond. Her most famous works, such as “Higher Than the Clouds,” “Simple Love Song,” and “Come Over Love,” showcase her ability to craft catchy, feel-good melodies that celebrate love, positivity, and the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. Throughout her career, Anuhea has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Jack Johnson and Ziggy Marley to SOJA and Justin Young, and has performed at numerous music festivals and events around the world. She has also been a strong advocate for environmental conservation and sustainability, often using her platform to raise awareness about issues facing Hawaii and the planet. With her genuine spirit, her infectious music, and her commitment to spreading aloha, Anuhea has become one of the most beloved and respected artists to emerge from Hawaii in recent years, and a true ambassador of the islands’ rich musical heritage.
8. Kimie Miner
Kimie Miner, born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for her contemporary Hawaiian music that blends elements of pop, R&B, and reggae. With her soulful vocals, honest lyrics, and innovative production style, Miner has released several acclaimed albums and singles that have earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting and original artists to emerge from Hawaii in recent years. Her most famous works, such as “Bamboo,” “Proud as the Sun,” and “Sea of Love,” showcase her ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable, celebrating themes of love, identity, and connection to the land and sea. Throughout her career, Miner has been a strong advocate for the preservation and promotion of Hawaiian language, culture, and music, often incorporating traditional instruments and stories into her work. She has also been involved in various community initiatives and educational programs, using her platform to empower and inspire young people in Hawaii and beyond. With her undeniable talent, her commitment to her roots, and her visionary approach to music-making, Kimie Miner has become a leading voice in the Hawaiian music scene, and a shining example of the next generation of artists carrying the torch of the islands’ musical legacy.
9. Kolohe Kai
Kolohe Kai, formed in Oahu, Hawaii, is a Hawaiian reggae band known for their infectious beats, positive lyrics, and high-energy performances. Led by frontman Roman De Peralta, the group has released several successful albums and singles that have earned them a dedicated fanbase in Hawaii and around the world. Their most famous works, such as “Ehu Girl,” “Cool Down,” and “Heartstrings,” showcase their ability to blend traditional Hawaiian music with modern reggae and pop influences, creating a sound that is both fresh and nostalgic. Throughout their career, Kolohe Kai has toured extensively, sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in reggae and Hawaiian music, and spreading their message of love, unity, and island pride. They have also been active in various community outreach programs, using their music to support local charities and non-profit organizations. With their tight musicianship, their infectious spirit, and their commitment to representing Hawaiian culture in a positive light, Kolohe Kai has become one of the most beloved and influential bands to emerge from the islands in recent years, and a true ambassador of the aloha spirit.
10. Amy Hanaiali’i
Amy Hanaiali’i, born in Hilo, Hawaii, is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer known for her stunning vocals, her genre-bending style, and her dedication to preserving and promoting Hawaiian music and culture. With a career spanning over two decades, Hanaiali’i has released numerous acclaimed albums and singles that showcase her versatility as an artist, blending elements of traditional Hawaiian music, jazz, pop, and world music. Her most famous works, such as “Palehua,” “Hallelujah,” and “Pu’uanahulu,” are celebrated for their lush arrangements, emotional depth, and Hanaiali’i’s unparalleled vocal prowess. Throughout her career, Hanaiali’i has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Willie Nelson and Ziggy Marley to the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, and has performed at prestigious venues and events around the world. She has also been a strong advocate for Hawaiian language education and cultural preservation, often incorporating ancient chants and stories into her music and live performances. In addition to her musical achievements, Hanaiali’i has been recognized for her philanthropic work, supporting various causes related to education, environmental conservation, and social justice. With her undeniable talent, her passionate dedication to her craft, and her unwavering commitment to her roots, Amy Hanaiali’i has cemented her status as one of the most iconic and influential Hawaiian artists of her generation, and a true ambassador of the islands’ rich musical and cultural heritage.
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.
