Hawaii, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has also produced a number of talented and influential musicians over the years. From the smooth melodies of traditional Hawaiian music to the vibrant sounds of contemporary pop and rock, the music of Hawaii reflects the diversity and beauty of the islands. In this article, we will explore the lives and careers of the top ten most popular singers from Hawaii, showcasing their unique talents and contributions to the world of music. These artists have not only achieved success in their homeland but have also captivated audiences around the globe with their captivating performances and heartfelt lyrics. Join us as we celebrate the musical legacy of Hawaii and the artists who have helped shape its unique sound.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter and producer whose music effortlessly blends various genres, including pop, R&B, funk, and soul. With his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and energetic performances, Mars has become one of the most popular and influential artists of his generation.
Mars burst onto the music scene in the early 2010s with his debut album, “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” which featured hit singles like “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade.” Since then, he has continued to dominate the charts with songs like “Locked Out of Heaven,” “Uptown Funk,” and “24K Magic.”
In addition to his solo work, Mars has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Mark Ronson, Cardi B, and Travis McCoy. He has also won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has been praised for his dynamic live performances.
Bruno Mars’ music is known for its infectious beats, heartfelt lyrics, and undeniable charm, making him a beloved figure in the world of popular music.
2. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a versatile and iconic singer, actress, and comedian. Her career spans over five decades and includes success in music, film, and theater. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Midler has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique blend of humor, emotion, and charisma.
Midler’s music career took off in the 1970s with hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “The Rose,” earning her multiple Grammy Awards. She has released over a dozen studio albums, showcasing her talent for interpreting a wide range of musical styles, from pop and rock to jazz and show tunes.
In addition to her music, Midler has also found success on the big screen, starring in films like “The First Wives Club,” “Beaches,” and “Hocus Pocus.” Her performances have earned her several accolades, including four Golden Globe Awards and three Emmy Awards.
A true entertainment powerhouse, Bette Midler continues to inspire audiences with her incredible talent, wit, and passion for her craft.
3. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, often referred to as “Iz,” was a Hawaiian musician, singer, and songwriter, celebrated for his powerful voice and ukulele skills. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Iz rose to international fame with his medley of “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World,” which became one of the best-selling Hawaiian songs of all time.
Iz’s music is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and often features themes of love, peace, and the beauty of the islands. His gentle yet soulful voice, combined with his ukulele’s soft melodies, creates a soothing and heartfelt sound that resonates with listeners around the world.
Despite his untimely death in 1997 at the age of 38, Iz’s music continues to inspire and uplift people of all ages and backgrounds. His rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” has been used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place as a timeless classic.
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s legacy lives on through his music, which serves as a reminder of the beauty and aloha spirit of Hawaii.
4. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is a Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso known for his incredible talent 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 skillful playing style.
Shimabukuro’s music transcends traditional ukulele stereotypes, blending elements of jazz, blues, rock, classical, and Hawaiian music. His performances are mesmerizing, showcasing his exceptional technique, speed, and musicality. Shimabukuro’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music has earned him a dedicated following around the world.
One of Shimabukuro’s most notable performances was his rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” which went viral on YouTube and introduced him to a global audience. Since then, he has released numerous albums, collaborated with a variety of artists, and performed at prestigious venues and events worldwide.
Jake Shimabukuro’s innovative approach to the ukulele has helped redefine the instrument’s role in contemporary music. His passion for music and his mastery of the ukulele continue to inspire musicians and music lovers alike.
5. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson, born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is a singer-songwriter, musician, and environmental activist known for his laid-back acoustic sound and thoughtful lyrics. Johnson’s music is often characterized by its relaxed vibe, catchy melodies, and positive messages, reflecting his deep connection to the natural beauty of Hawaii and his commitment to sustainability.
Johnson gained widespread recognition with his debut album, “Brushfire Fairytales,” which featured the hit single “Flake.” He has since released several successful albums, including “In Between Dreams,” “Sleep Through the Static,” and “From Here to Now to You,” earning a loyal fan base and critical acclaim along the way.
In addition to his music career, 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 music to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainability.
Jack Johnson’s music is a reflection of his laid-back lifestyle and his love for the natural world. With his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Johnson continues to captivate audiences around the world and inspire them to live more harmoniously with the planet.
6. Tia Carrere
Tia Carrere, born Althea Rae Duhinio Janairo in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a multi-talented artist known for her work as an actress, singer, and model. Carrere’s career began in the late 1980s with roles in television series like “Airwolf” and “General Hospital,” but she gained widespread fame for her role as Cassandra in the “Wayne’s World” films.
In addition to her acting career, Carrere is also an accomplished singer. She released her debut album, “Dream,” in 1993, which was well-received by critics and fans alike. Carrere’s music is a blend of pop, rock, and Hawaiian influences, reflecting her diverse cultural background.
Carrere has continued to pursue both acting and music throughout her career, appearing in a variety of films and television shows and releasing several albums. She has also lent her voice to animated projects, including the popular video game “Saints Row 2.”
Tia Carrere’s talent, beauty, and versatility have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to film, television, and music have earned her a dedicated fan base and cemented her status as one of Hawaii’s most beloved celebrities.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros, a native of Kailua, Hawaii, is a singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1980s with his hit song “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” Medeiros’ smooth vocals and romantic lyrics captivated audiences around the world, propelling the song to the top of the charts in several countries.
Born to Portuguese and Hawaiian descent, Medeiros’ music often reflects his cultural heritage, blending pop and R&B with elements of traditional Hawaiian music. In addition to “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You,” he also found success with songs like “She Ain’t Worth It,” a duet with Bobby Brown, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Medeiros’ success as a singer led to opportunities in acting and hosting television shows, further expanding his reach and popularity. Despite stepping away from the spotlight in recent years, his music continues to resonate with fans, and he remains a celebrated figure in the music industry.
Glenn Medeiros’ heartfelt ballads and smooth vocals have made him a beloved figure in the world of music. His contribution to the music scene in Hawaii and beyond has left a lasting impact on audiences around the world.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins, known professionally as Anuhea, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter whose music is a blend of acoustic pop, reggae, and R&B influences. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Anuhea’s music is deeply rooted in the Hawaiian culture and reflects the laid-back vibe of the islands.
Anuhea gained recognition with her debut self-titled album in 2009, which featured the hit single “Right Love, Wrong Time.” Since then, she has released several successful albums, including “For Love” and “Follow Me,” earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Anuhea’s music often explores themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery. Her music is a reflection of her own experiences and has resonated with audiences around the world.
In addition to her music career, Anuhea is also known for her activism and philanthropy, supporting causes related to the environment, education, and Hawaiian culture. She continues to inspire audiences with her music and her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
9. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is a renowned Hawaiian singer, songwriter, dancer, and educator, celebrated for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of Hawaiian culture and music. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Reichel’s deep connection to his Hawaiian heritage is evident in his music, which often features traditional chants, melodies, and instruments.
Reichel gained prominence in the 1990s with the release of his debut album, “Kawaipunahele,” which showcased his powerful vocals and unique musical style. Since then, he has released several successful albums, including “Melelana” and “Kamahiwa,” earning him numerous awards and accolades.
In addition to his music career, Reichel is also a respected kumu hula, or hula teacher, known for his innovative choreography and commitment to teaching the next generation of dancers. He has received widespread recognition for his work in hula, including the title of “Kumu Hula of the Year” by the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts.
Kealiʻi Reichel’s music and hula have helped to preserve and promote Hawaiian culture, both in Hawaii and around the world. His passion for his heritage and his dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the Hawaiian community and beyond.
10. Napua Greig
Napua Greig, a native of Oahu, Hawaii, is a highly respected Hawaiian singer, musician, and hula dancer known for her beautiful voice and deep connection to Hawaiian culture. Greig’s music is a blend of traditional Hawaiian chants and songs with contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both authentic and innovative.
Greig comes from a long line of Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers, and her upbringing steeped in Hawaiian traditions is reflected in her music. She is known for her soulful interpretations of classic Hawaiian songs as well as her original compositions, which often touch on themes of love, nature, and cultural pride.
In addition to her music career, Greig is also a dedicated educator and cultural practitioner. She has taught Hawaiian language, music, and hula to students of all ages, helping to pass on the traditions of her ancestors to future generations.
Napua Greig’s music and cultural contributions have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition in Hawaii and beyond. Her dedication to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture through her music and teachings has made her a beloved figure in the Hawaiian community.