Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean lies Hawaii, a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant music scene. Among its myriad contributions to the world of entertainment, Hawaii has birthed an impressive array of talented singers who have captivated audiences worldwide. From the soothing melodies of traditional Hawaiian music to the electrifying performances of contemporary pop and rock, the Aloha State boasts a diverse spectrum of vocal talents. In this article, we embark on a journey to celebrate the top 10 famous singers from Hawaii, exploring their unique styles, contributions, and enduring legacies in the realm of music.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez on October 8, 1985, in Honolulu, Hawaii, has emerged as one of the most electrifying and versatile performers in contemporary music. With his smooth vocals, infectious charisma, and dynamic stage presence, Mars has captivated audiences worldwide.
Raised in a family of musicians, Mars was exposed to a variety of musical genres from a young age, which heavily influenced his eclectic style. His music effortlessly blends elements of pop, R&B, funk, soul, and reggae, creating a sound that appeals to a broad audience.
Mars skyrocketed to fame with hits like “Just the Way You Are,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” and “Uptown Funk,” showcasing his incredible vocal range and knack for crafting catchy melodies. His performances are renowned for their high energy and showmanship, earning him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards.
Beyond his chart-topping success as a solo artist, Mars has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, further cementing his status as a musical icon. His ability to continually reinvent himself while staying true to his roots has solidified his place as one of the topmost popular and influential singers to hail from Hawaii, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
2. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, affectionately known as “The Divine Miss M,” is a beloved singer, actress, and comedian hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii. Born on December 1, 1945, Midler’s illustrious career spans decades and encompasses a wide array of accomplishments.
Her distinctive voice, marked by its rich timbre and emotive delivery, has earned her critical acclaim and adoration from fans around the globe. Midler’s music transcends genres, seamlessly transitioning from pop and rock to jazz and Broadway classics with ease.
Rising to prominence in the 1970s, Midler quickly became a household name with hits like “Wind Beneath My Wings,” “The Rose,” and “From a Distance.” Her theatrical performances, characterized by flamboyant costumes and witty banter, established her as a dynamic entertainer with unparalleled stage presence.
In addition to her successful music career, Midler has garnered accolades for her work in film and theater, earning multiple Grammy Awards, Golden Globes, and Tony Awards nominations. Her versatility as a performer and her ability to evoke raw emotion through her music have solidified her status as one of the most popular and enduring figures in the entertainment industry.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Midler is also known for her philanthropy and activism, advocating for causes such as environmental conservation and LGBTQ+ rights. Her contributions to both the arts and society at large have left an indelible legacy, cementing her place as one of the topmost famous singers to emerge from Hawaii.
3. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, affectionately known as “Iz,” remains one of Hawaii’s most cherished and iconic musicians, celebrated for his soulful voice and profound connection to his native culture. Born on May 20, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kamakawiwoʻole’s impact transcends borders, captivating hearts worldwide.
Renowned for his gentle yet powerful voice, Kamakawiwoʻole was a master of the ukulele, infusing traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary flair. His rendition of “Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” became his signature song, resonating deeply with audiences and earning him widespread acclaim.
Beyond his musical talent, Kamakawiwoʻole’s larger-than-life personality and warm spirit endeared him to fans across generations. His humility and genuine love for his homeland shone through in every performance, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for the beauty of Hawaii.
Despite his untimely passing at the age of 38 in 1997, Kamakawiwoʻole’s legacy endures, inspiring countless artists and continuing to touch the hearts of millions. His music serves as a timeless tribute to the spirit of aloha and the enduring beauty of Hawaii, firmly establishing him as one of the topmost beloved and influential singers to emerge from the islands.
4. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro stands as a pioneering force in the world of ukulele music, captivating audiences with his unparalleled skill, innovative techniques, and heartfelt performances. Born on November 3, 1976, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Shimabukuro’s musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his father’s love for the instrument.
Shimabukuro’s virtuosity on the ukulele is nothing short of astonishing, pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible with the instrument. His dynamic playing style, characterized by lightning-fast fingerwork and intricate arrangements, has earned him widespread acclaim and comparisons to guitar legends.
Rising to prominence with his viral rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” in 2006, Shimabukuro quickly gained international recognition, captivating audiences with his transcendent talent. He has since released numerous albums spanning various genres, from traditional Hawaiian music to contemporary pop and rock covers, showcasing his versatility and artistic range.
Beyond his solo career, Shimabukuro has collaborated with renowned artists and orchestras, further expanding the scope of ukulele music and cementing his status as a trailblazer in the industry. His passion for his craft and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level have made him one of the most revered and influential figures in contemporary Hawaiian music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ukulele.
5. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, born on May 18, 1975, in North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii, is not just a singer-songwriter but a cultural phenomenon revered for his laid-back tunes and commitment to environmental activism. Johnson’s music embodies the essence of Hawaii’s relaxed lifestyle, blending acoustic melodies with thoughtful lyrics that resonate with listeners worldwide.
Rising to fame with his debut album “Brushfire Fairytales” in 2001, Johnson quickly became known for his breezy folk-rock sound and introspective storytelling. Hits like “Upside Down,” “Banana Pancakes,” and “Better Together” solidified his place as a leading figure in the indie music scene.
Beyond his musical talent, Johnson is also deeply committed to environmental conservation and sustainability. Through his music and activism, he raises awareness about pressing issues such as plastic pollution and climate change, inspiring fans to take action and make a positive impact on the planet.
Johnson’s influence extends far beyond the realm of music, as he is also an accomplished filmmaker and surfer. His laid-back persona and dedication to living in harmony with nature have earned him a devoted following and made him a cultural icon synonymous with the spirit of aloha.
With his soothing melodies, socially conscious lyrics, and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, Jack Johnson has left an indelible mark on both the music industry and the world at large, solidifying his place as one of Hawaii’s topmost beloved and influential singers.
6. Tia Carrere
Tia Carrere, born Althea Rae Janairo on January 2, 1967, in Honolulu, Hawaii, has achieved fame as both a versatile actress and a talented singer. Best known for her roles in films such as “Wayne’s World” and “True Lies,” Carrere’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by her diverse talents and captivating performances.
While Carrere initially gained recognition for her acting prowess, her foray into music further showcased her multifaceted abilities. In 1993, she released her debut album, “Dream,” which featured a blend of pop, rock, and R&B influences. The album received positive reviews and spawned the hit single “Ballroom Blitz,” showcasing Carrere’s vocal range and stage presence.
In addition to her solo music career, Carrere’s talent as a vocalist was prominently featured in the animated film “Lilo & Stitch,” where she provided the singing voice for the character Nani and performed several Hawaiian-themed songs. Her contributions to the film’s soundtrack earned her critical acclaim and further solidified her connection to her Hawaiian roots.
Throughout her career, Carrere has continued to pursue both acting and music, showcasing her versatility and passion for storytelling through various mediums. Her ability to seamlessly transition between roles and genres has garnered her a dedicated fan base and cemented her status as one of Hawaii’s most prominent and admired entertainers.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros, born on June 24, 1970, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, rose to international fame in the late 1980s with his hit single “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” His smooth vocals and romantic ballads captured the hearts of listeners around the world, making him one of Hawaii’s most celebrated musical exports.
Medeiros’ rise to stardom began when he won a local radio talent contest, which led to a recording contract with a major label. “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and establishing Medeiros as a rising star in the music industry.
Following the success of his debut single, Medeiros continued to release albums and singles, showcasing his talent for crafting heartfelt love songs. Tracks like “She Ain’t Worth It,” a duet with Bobby Brown, further solidified his commercial success and earned him a loyal fan base.
Beyond his music career, Medeiros has also ventured into education, serving as a high school educator and later as a school administrator. Despite his shift in focus, his impact on the music world remains enduring, with his songs continuing to resonate with audiences and evoke a sense of nostalgia for the romantic ballads of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Glenn Medeiros’ contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark on Hawaii’s cultural landscape, cementing his status as one of the state’s most beloved and enduring musical talents.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins, simply known as Anuhea, represents the vibrant contemporary music scene of Hawaii with her soulful voice, captivating melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Anuhea has emerged as a leading figure in the modern Hawaiian music scene, captivating audiences with her unique blend of reggae, pop, and acoustic sounds.
Anuhea’s musical journey began at a young age, influenced by her father’s love for music and her Hawaiian heritage. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of her surroundings and the rich cultural tapestry of Hawaii, she began writing and performing her own songs, quickly gaining a devoted following with her authentic and relatable lyrics.
With her debut album “Anuhea” released in 2009, she made waves in the music industry, earning critical acclaim and multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, Hawaii’s equivalent of the Grammy Awards. Songs like “Simple Love Song” and “Higher Than the Clouds” became instant classics, showcasing Anuhea’s soulful vocals and infectious melodies.
Since then, Anuhea has continued to release albums and tour extensively, sharing her music with audiences both in Hawaii and around the world. Her passionate performances and commitment to spreading aloha through her music have solidified her status as one of Hawaii’s topmost beloved contemporary singers.
In addition to her musical talents, Anuhea is also a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and social justice, using her platform to raise awareness about important issues facing her community and beyond. With her powerful voice and unwavering dedication to her craft and causes she believes in, Anuhea embodies the spirit of aloha and continues to inspire listeners worldwide.
9. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel stands as a towering figure in Hawaiian music and culture, celebrated for his mesmerizing vocals, mastery of traditional chants and hula, and profound connection to the land and people of Hawaii. Born on May 24, 1962, in Lahaina, Maui, Reichel’s musical journey began at a young age, inspired by the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.
Reichel’s distinctive voice, characterized by its haunting beauty and emotive power, has earned him widespread acclaim and adoration from fans around the world. His deep reverence for Hawaiian traditions is evident in his music, which often features traditional chants and instruments woven seamlessly with contemporary melodies.
With his debut album “Kawaipunahele” released in 1994, Reichel emerged as a leading figure in the Hawaiian music renaissance, earning critical acclaim and multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. The album’s title track became an instant classic, showcasing Reichel’s ability to evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia for the beauty of Hawaii.
In addition to his success as a recording artist, Reichel is also a renowned kumu hula (hula teacher), preserving and perpetuating the ancient art of hula for future generations. His passion for hula and his dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture have earned him immense respect within the community and beyond.
Throughout his career, Reichel has remained committed to using his music as a vehicle for cultural preservation and social activism, advocating for issues such as environmental conservation and Native Hawaiian rights. With his powerful voice, unwavering dedication to his heritage, and profound love for Hawaii, Kealiʻi Reichel continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world, leaving an indelible legacy on Hawaiian music and culture.
10. Napua Greig
Napua Greig, a shining star in the realm of Hawaiian music and culture, embodies the essence of aloha with her enchanting voice, deep-rooted connection to her heritage, and dedication to preserving and perpetuating traditional Hawaiian arts. Born and raised on the island of Oahu, Greig’s journey in music and hula began at a young age, nurtured by her family’s passion for Hawaiian culture.
Greig’s exquisite vocals and mastery of traditional chants have earned her acclaim both locally and internationally. Her performances are imbued with a profound sense of reverence and authenticity, transporting listeners to the lush landscapes and rich traditions of Hawaii.
As a kumu hula (hula teacher) and cultural practitioner, Greig plays a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of Hawaiian artists. Her commitment to passing on traditional knowledge and values through hula and music reflects her deep love for her culture and community.
In addition to her work as a performer and educator, Greig is also an advocate for environmental conservation and indigenous rights, using her platform to raise awareness about pressing issues facing Hawaii and its people.
Through her music, hula, and activism, Napua Greig continues to inspire and uplift audiences, spreading the spirit of aloha and fostering a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture and heritage. Her contributions to the cultural landscape of Hawaii are immeasurable, solidifying her place as one of the state’s most beloved and respected cultural ambassadors.
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.
