Hawaii has produced many famous singers who have significantly influenced various music genres worldwide. These artists are celebrated for their unique blend of traditional Hawaiian sounds and contemporary styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the islands. Their music often features the ukulele, slack-key guitar, and distinctive vocal harmonies, capturing the spirit of aloha and the natural beauty of Hawaii. Through their work, they have brought Hawaiian music to international audiences, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation. Their contributions have earned them numerous awards and a dedicated global following, solidifying Hawaii’s place on the world music stage.
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his versatile musical style that spans pop, R&B, funk, and soul. Born Peter Gene Hernandez on October 8, 1985, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mars gained fame with hits like “Just the Way You Are,” “Grenade,” and “Uptown Funk.” Renowned for his smooth voice, dynamic performances, and retro showmanship, he has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. Mars’ influences range from Elvis Presley to Michael Jackson, and his talent for blending genres has made him a global superstar, acclaimed for both his studio recordings and electrifying live shows.
2. Bette Midler
Bruno Mars is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his versatile musical style that spans pop, R&B, funk, and soul. Born Peter Gene Hernandez on October 8, 1985, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mars gained fame with hits like “Just the Way You Are,” “Grenade,” and “Uptown Funk.” Renowned for his smooth voice, dynamic performances, and retro showmanship, he has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. Mars’ influences range from Elvis Presley to Michael Jackson, and his talent for blending genres has made him a global superstar, acclaimed for both his studio recordings and electrifying live shows.
3. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, also known as “Iz,” was a renowned Hawaiian musician and singer-songwriter, celebrated for his soothing voice and ukulele skills. Born on May 20, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Iz gained international fame with his medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” which has become iconic. His music, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences, deeply resonated with audiences worldwide. Kamakawiwoʻole’s heartfelt songs often conveyed themes of love, hope, and Hawaiian culture. Despite his untimely death in 1997, his legacy endures, symbolizing the spirit and beauty of Hawaii through his timeless melodies.
4. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is a virtuoso ukulele player and composer from Honolulu, Hawaii, known for his innovative and expressive playing style. Born on November 3, 1976, Shimabukuro gained international fame with his viral rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” His music spans various genres, including jazz, rock, classical, and traditional Hawaiian music. With remarkable technical skill and a unique ability to convey emotion through the ukulele, he has released several acclaimed albums and collaborated with artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Jimmy Buffett. Shimabukuro’s work has redefined the possibilities of the ukulele, earning him a devoted global following.
5. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and former professional surfer from Hawaii. Born on May 18, 1975, in Oahu, Johnson is known for his laid-back acoustic sound that blends folk, rock, and surf music. He gained widespread recognition with his 2001 debut album “Brushfire Fairytales” and subsequent hits like “Banana Pancakes,” “Upside Down,” and “Better Together.” Johnson’s music often features introspective lyrics and themes of environmentalism and social justice. Besides his music career, he is also an active environmentalist, co-founding the Kokua Hawaii Foundation to support environmental education in schools and communities across Hawaii.
6. Tia Carrere
Tia Carrere is an American actress, singer, and former model, best known for her roles in the “Wayne’s World” films as Cassandra Wong and as Sydney Fox in the television series “Relic Hunter.” Born Althea Rae Duhinio Janairo on January 2, 1967, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Carrere’s career began in the mid-1980s. She has also appeared in movies like “True Lies” and lent her voice to the character Nani in Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch.” Besides acting, Carrere is a Grammy Award-winning singer, recognized for her Hawaiian music albums, showcasing her versatile talents and enduring appeal in entertainment.
7. Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros is an American singer and songwriter known for his smooth pop and R&B hits of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born on June 24, 1970, in Lihue, Hawaii, he gained international fame with his 1986 debut single “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You,” which became a global hit. Medeiros followed this success with other popular songs, including “She Ain’t Worth It,” a duet with Bobby Brown that topped the charts in 1990. After his music career, he transitioned to education, becoming a respected educator and administrator. Medeiros’ contributions to music and his post-music career achievements reflect his versatility and commitment.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea, born Rylee Anuheakeʻalaokalokelani Jenkins on December 10, 1985, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of reggae, pop, and acoustic soul music. Hailing from Maui, Hawaii, she gained popularity with her debut self-titled album in 2009, featuring hit singles like “Right Love, Wrong Time.” Anuhea’s music is characterized by her soothing voice, heartfelt lyrics, and a distinctive island vibe. She has since released several successful albums and continues to captivate audiences with her authentic sound and charismatic performances, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary Hawaiian music.
9. Keali’i Reichel
Keali’i Reichel is a renowned Hawaiian singer, songwriter, dancer, and cultural advocate. Born on June 26, 1962, in Puʻunene, Maui, he is celebrated for his contributions to traditional Hawaiian music and chant (mele) and hula. Reichel’s debut album, “Kawaipunahele,” released in 1994, became a milestone in Hawaiian music, blending traditional and contemporary sounds. He is known for hits like “Kawaipunahele,” “E O Mai,” and “Kawailehuaʻaʻalakahonua.” In addition to his musical career, Reichel is a dedicated kumu hula (hula teacher) and founded Halau Keʻalaokamaile, a hula school aimed at preserving Hawaiian culture. His work has earned him numerous awards and a lasting legacy in Hawaiian arts.
10. Napua Greig
Napua Greig is a celebrated Hawaiian musician, vocalist, and hula dancer, renowned for her contributions to Hawaiian culture and music. Born and raised in Maui, Hawaii, she is deeply rooted in her heritage and has become a prominent figure in the Hawaiian music scene. Greig’s music blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences, showcasing her powerful voice and profound connection to her cultural roots. She has released several acclaimed albums, earning multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, often referred to as the Hawaiian Grammy Awards. Besides her musical career, Greig is also a respected kumu hula (hula teacher), preserving and promoting the art of hula.
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.
