Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has also been home to some of the most talented and influential singers in the music industry. From traditional Hawaiian music to contemporary pop and rock, the state has produced a diverse range of artists who have captivated audiences worldwide. In this article, we will explore the top ten most popular singers from Hawaii, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the music world. These artists have not only left a lasting impact on the music industry but have also helped to showcase the unique musical heritage of Hawaii to the world. Join us as we delve into the lives and careers of these remarkable singers who have helped to put Hawaii on the map as a hub of musical talent.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez, is a Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter, producer, and performer. With his smooth vocals, infectious energy, and versatile musical style, Mars has become one of the most popular and successful artists of his generation.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mars was exposed to a diverse range of musical influences from a young age, including R&B, rock, reggae, and hip-hop. He began performing at a young age and gained recognition for his talent as a songwriter and producer before launching his solo career.
Mars’ debut album, “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” was released in 2010 and featured hit singles like “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade,” which showcased his impressive vocal range and songwriting skills. He continued to dominate the charts with his follow-up albums, including “Unorthodox Jukebox” and “24K Magic,” which earned him multiple Grammy Awards.
Mars is known for his dynamic performances, which blend elements of pop, R&B, funk, and soul, and his ability to connect with audiences worldwide. He has sold millions of albums and singles, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.
2. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, also known as The Divine Miss M, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and is a versatile singer, actress, and comedian. She rose to fame in the 1970s with her debut album, “The Divine Miss M,” which earned her a Grammy Award for Best New Artist.
Midler’s music covers a wide range of styles, including pop, rock, blues, and show tunes. She is known for her powerful voice, theatrical stage presence, and engaging performances. Some of her most famous songs include “Wind Beneath My Wings,” “The Rose,” and “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.”
In addition to her music career, Midler has also found success as an actress, appearing in films such as “The First Wives Club,” “Beaches,” and “Hocus Pocus.” She has won multiple awards for her work in both music and film, including three Grammy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and three Emmy Awards.
Midler continues to be a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for her talent, humor, and philanthropy. Her contributions to music and film have earned her a place among the most popular and influential artists from Hawaii.
3. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, often referred to as “Iz,” was a Hawaiian musician and songwriter who became a cultural icon in Hawaii and beyond. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kamakawiwoʻole is best known for his hauntingly beautiful medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” which has touched the hearts of millions around the world.
Kamakawiwoʻole’s music is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and often features themes of love, peace, and nature. He was known for his soulful voice, ukulele playing, and his ability to blend traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary styles.
Despite his untimely death at the age of 38, Kamakawiwoʻole’s legacy continues to inspire people around the world. His music has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, and his version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” remains one of the most beloved and iconic songs of all time.
Kamakawiwoʻole’s impact on Hawaiian music and culture is undeniable, and he is remembered as one of the most popular and influential musicians to have emerged from Hawaii.
4. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is a Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso known for his incredible skill and innovative approach to the instrument. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Shimabukuro began playing the ukulele at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his talent.
Shimabukuro’s music transcends traditional ukulele playing, blending elements of jazz, blues, rock, and classical music. His unique style and passionate performances have earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
One of Shimabukuro’s most famous performances was his rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” which went viral on YouTube and helped to introduce him to a global audience. Since then, he has released numerous albums, toured around the world, and collaborated with a wide range of artists.
Shimabukuro is also known for his philanthropy and dedication to music education. He has worked with schools and community organizations to promote the ukulele and inspire the next generation of musicians.
With his innovative approach to the ukulele and his captivating performances, Jake Shimabukuro has become one of the most popular and influential musicians to emerge from Hawaii.
5. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson is a Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter, musician, and environmental activist known for his laid-back acoustic sound and thoughtful lyrics. Born on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, Johnson grew up surfing and playing music, which greatly influenced his musical style and lyrical themes.
Johnson rose to fame with his debut album, “Brushfire Fairytales,” which featured the hit singles “Flake” and “Bubble Toes.” His music is characterized by its mellow vibe, catchy melodies, and socially conscious lyrics, which often touch on topics like environmentalism, love, and personal introspection.
In addition to his music, Johnson is also known for his environmental activism. He and his wife, Kim, founded the Kokua Hawaii Foundation, which supports environmental education in Hawaii’s schools and communities. Johnson also uses his platform to raise awareness about environmental issues through his music and tours.
With his easygoing charm, soulful voice, and meaningful lyrics, Jack Johnson has become one of the most popular and respected artists to emerge from Hawaii. His music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making him a beloved figure in the world of folk and acoustic music.
6. Tia Carrere
Tia Carrere is a Hawaiian-born actress, singer, and model who has gained fame for her work in film, television, and music. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Carrere began her career as a model before transitioning to acting.
Carrere’s breakout role came in the early 1990s when she starred as Cassandra in the hit film “Wayne’s World” and its sequel. Her performance in the films showcased her talent as both an actress and a singer, as she performed several songs on the film’s soundtrack.
In addition to her work in “Wayne’s World,” Carrere has appeared in a variety of other films and television shows, including “True Lies,” “Rising Sun,” and “Relic Hunter.” She has also lent her voice to several animated series and video games.
Outside of acting, Carrere has pursued a career in music, releasing several albums that showcase her singing talent. Her music is a blend of pop, rock, and Hawaiian influences, reflecting her cultural roots.
With her diverse talents and charismatic presence, Tia Carrere has become one of the most popular and successful entertainers to come out of Hawaii. Her work in film, television, and music has earned her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros is a Hawaiian singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1980s with his hit song “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Medeiros began singing at a young age and gained local recognition before being discovered by a record producer.
“Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” was released in 1987 and became a worldwide hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song’s success launched Medeiros’ music career, and he went on to release several albums and singles throughout the late 1980s and 1990s.
In addition to his music career, Medeiros has also worked as a music educator and school administrator. He has been involved in various educational initiatives in Hawaii, using his platform to support music education and youth development.
Despite taking a break from the music industry in the early 2000s, Medeiros returned to recording and performing in later years, continuing to delight audiences with his smooth vocals and heartfelt songs.
Glenn Medeiros remains a beloved figure in the music industry, known for his romantic ballads and his contribution to the pop music scene of the late 1980s and 1990s.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of acoustic soul, pop, and reggae music. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Anuhea began playing the guitar and writing songs as a teenager, drawing inspiration from her island roots and her love of contemporary music.
Anuhea gained popularity in Hawaii’s music scene with her debut self-titled album, which was released in 2009. The album featured hit songs like “Right Love, Wrong Time” and “Big Deal,” showcasing her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Her music is often described as a reflection of her laid-back island lifestyle, with themes of love, empowerment, and self-discovery.
In addition to her solo career, Anuhea has collaborated with a number of other artists and bands, both locally and internationally. She has toured extensively throughout Hawaii and the mainland United States, as well as in Japan and Australia, building a dedicated fan base along the way.
Anuhea’s music has earned her several Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, which are Hawaii’s equivalent of the Grammy Awards, cementing her status as one of Hawaii’s most popular and influential contemporary musicians. Her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making her a true ambassador for Hawaiian music and culture.
9. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is a highly respected Hawaiian singer, songwriter, and kumu hula (hula teacher) known for his beautiful music and his commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture and language. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Reichel has deep roots in Hawaiian traditions, which are reflected in his music and his work as a hula teacher.
Reichel first gained national attention in the mid-1990s with the release of his debut album, “Kawaipunahele,” which featured traditional Hawaiian chants and songs. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning Reichel several awards and nominations.
Since then, Reichel has released several more albums, all of which have been well-received by critics and audiences alike. His music is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melodies, rich harmonies, and poignant lyrics, which often explore themes of love, nature, and Hawaiian identity.
In addition to his music career, Reichel is also known for his work as a kumu hula. He founded the hula school Halau Keʻalaokamaile in 1980, where he teaches traditional Hawaiian dance to students of all ages.
Kealiʻi Reichel’s contributions to Hawaiian music and culture have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. He continues to be a beloved figure in Hawaii and a respected ambassador for Hawaiian culture around the world.
10. Napua Greig
Napua Greig is a Hawaiian singer, songwriter, and hula dancer known for her beautiful voice and her deep connection to Hawaiian culture. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Greig comes from a family of musicians and hula dancers, and she began performing at a young age.
Greig first gained national attention in 2007 when she competed on the television show “American Idol.” Although she did not win the competition, her powerful performances and soulful voice earned her a devoted following and helped to showcase Hawaiian music to a wider audience.
Since her time on “American Idol,” Greig has released several albums and singles, all of which have been well-received by critics and audiences alike. Her music is characterized by its blend of traditional Hawaiian chants and songs with contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and modern.
In addition to her music career, Greig is also a respected kumu hula (hula teacher) and cultural practitioner. She is deeply committed to preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian culture and language through her music and her work as a hula teacher.
Napua Greig’s contributions to Hawaiian music and culture have earned her numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. She continues to be a shining example of the beauty and richness of Hawaiian music and 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.
