The ukulele, with its bright, distinctive sound, has captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide for over a century. Though small in size, this four-stringed instrument has made a monumental impact on the music scene, transcending genres from Hawaiian melodies to jazz, blues, and even rock. But what truly brings the ukulele to life are the virtuosos who have mastered its unique charm, blending technical brilliance with undeniable passion.
In this article, we’ll celebrate the top 15 best ukulele players of all time — artists who not only pushed the boundaries of what this instrument could do but also left an indelible mark on music history. From legends who helped popularize the ukulele in the early 20th century to modern-day innovators who continue to reinvent its sound, these musicians have shaped the way we hear and feel the ukulele today. Whether you’re a seasoned player, an avid fan, or simply curious about the magic of this instrument, prepare to be inspired as we dive into the lives and legacies of the most exceptional ukulele players the world has ever known. Get ready to strum along with the greats!
1. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, affectionately known as “Iz,” holds an iconic place in music history, especially for his profound impact on the global perception of Hawaiian music and the ukulele. Iz’s version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” became more than just a song—it evolved into an anthem that resonated with people from all walks of life. His gentle, soulful voice paired with the soft strumming of his ukulele struck an emotional chord, creating a sense of peace and serenity that transcended cultural and geographical boundaries. Born and raised in Hawaii, Iz was more than a musician; he was a cultural ambassador, representing the spirit of aloha to the world. His music often carried messages of love, unity, and environmental conservation, blending traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences. Despite battling health issues throughout his life, his music never lost its hopeful, uplifting tone. His legacy lives on, not just through the timelessness of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” but through his role in popularizing the ukulele on a global scale. Long after his passing, his presence is felt in every strum of that beautiful instrument, a reminder of his enduring influence and his gentle, yet powerful spirit.
2. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro has redefined the ukulele and stretched its potential far beyond what most could have ever imagined. His groundbreaking performance of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral on YouTube, drawing millions of viewers who were astounded by his technical prowess and innovative approach. Shimabukuro doesn’t just play the ukulele; he transforms it into an entirely different kind of instrument, blending genres like rock, jazz, classical, and even flamenco, taking the humble four-stringed instrument into uncharted musical territory. His speed, precision, and creativity have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest guitarists, such as Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen. Jake’s performances often feel like a dialogue between himself and his instrument, his fingers flying across the fretboard with a grace and speed that seem almost superhuman. But beyond his jaw-dropping technique, Shimabukuro brings emotional depth to his music. He understands that the ukulele can evoke profound emotions and uses it to tell stories that resonate with listeners. Constantly evolving, Jake continues to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ukulele, making him not just a virtuoso but a visionary.
3. Eddie Kamae
Eddie Kamae was more than just an extraordinary ukulele player—he was a cultural custodian who dedicated his life to preserving and celebrating Hawaiian music. A founding member of the Sons of Hawaii, Kamae was instrumental in bringing the ukulele to the forefront of traditional Hawaiian music, imbuing each note he played with reverence for his heritage. His playing was both technically masterful and deeply emotional, often evoking a sense of nostalgia for the Hawaii of old. Eddie’s music was characterized by its fluidity and grace, his fingers moving effortlessly across the strings to create melodies that felt both timeless and personal. But Kamae’s contributions extended beyond his musicianship. He was also a documentarian, committed to capturing and preserving the stories, music, and traditions of Hawaii for future generations through his films. His work in both music and film left an indelible mark on the Hawaiian cultural landscape. Eddie Kamae was not only a bridge between past and present but also a visionary who ensured that Hawaiian music would continue to thrive. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who strive to keep the spirit of Hawaii alive through song.
4. Herb Ohta (Ohta-San)
Herb Ohta, known to many as Ohta-San, is a true ukulele legend whose contributions to the instrument have been nothing short of transformative. With a career spanning over six decades, Ohta-San’s approach to the ukulele has always been revolutionary, blending jazz elements with traditional Hawaiian sounds to create something entirely new. His playing is a masterclass in both precision and emotion, where every note feels intentional and deeply felt. Ohta-San’s fluid, melodic style redefined the ukulele as a serious instrument capable of conveying complex emotions and intricate harmonies. His ability to seamlessly transition between delicate, lilting melodies and fast, technically demanding solos set him apart from his peers and earned him respect not only in the Hawaiian music scene but in the international jazz community as well. Over the years, Ohta-San has recorded numerous albums, each showcasing his evolving style and his continued innovation on the instrument. His work continues to inspire generations of ukulele players, proving that the instrument can hold its own in any genre. Herb Ohta’s influence on the ukulele world is vast and enduring, marking him as one of the most important figures in its history.
5. George Formby
George Formby was a multi-talented entertainer whose contribution to the world of ukulele cannot be overstated. A beloved comedic actor and singer, Formby’s signature banjolele playing and cheeky, lighthearted songs made him one of the most recognizable entertainers in Britain during the early 20th century. Songs like “When I’m Cleaning Windows” became national treasures, and his rapid strumming style added a lively, energetic flair to his performances. Though much of his fame came from his humor and charismatic stage presence, Formby’s skills on the banjolele were nothing short of impressive. His fast-paced strumming and unique ability to integrate humor into his music made him a household name, not only as a comedian but as a serious musician in his own right. Formby’s influence extended far beyond his performances. He helped popularize the ukulele in Britain, turning it from a niche instrument into one embraced by the masses. To this day, Formby remains a beloved figure in British entertainment, a testament to his enduring charm and the joy he brought to audiences through both his comedic talents and his musical prowess on the ukulele.
6. Roy Smeck
Roy Smeck, often dubbed “The Wizard of the Strings,” was a musical trailblazer whose virtuosic ukulele performances left audiences in awe. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and breathtaking technical skill, Smeck was a master of not just the ukulele but multiple stringed instruments, including the guitar and banjo. His ability to command an audience with his rapid fingerpicking and intricate arrangements earned him a spot in vaudeville, where his ukulele performances became a major draw. Smeck brought the ukulele out of the shadows and into the spotlight, proving that it could be more than just a simple accompaniment instrument—it could be the star of the show. He later transitioned from vaudeville to Hollywood, further cementing his status as a pioneering performer. His innovative techniques, including the use of harmonics and complex fingerpicking patterns, influenced countless musicians and helped to elevate the ukulele’s status in the world of music. Smeck’s flamboyant style and showmanship made his performances as much a visual spectacle as they were a musical one. His contributions to the ukulele’s popularity in the early 20th century were profound, securing his legacy as a true musical innovator.
7. James Hill
James Hill has taken the ukulele to places it has never been before, thanks to his boundless creativity and genre-defying techniques. Trained as a classical musician, Hill has become known for his percussive playing style, which involves using the body of the ukulele to create drum-like beats while simultaneously delivering intricate melodies. This dual technique gives his performances a rich, full sound that makes it seem as though an entire band is accompanying him. Hill’s music spans a wide array of genres, including folk, pop, classical, and even blues, making his style both unique and unpredictable. What truly sets Hill apart is his ability to continually push the limits of what the ukulele can do, often introducing new and inventive ways to play the instrument that inspire other musicians to follow suit. His innovative approach has earned him a devoted following, and his live performances are known for their energy and spontaneity. Hill’s music is a testament to the versatility of the ukulele, and he has become a leading figure in modern ukulele playing, constantly showing the world that this small instrument is capable of producing big, boundary-pushing sounds.
8. Taimane Gardner
Taimane Gardner has emerged as one of the most dynamic and electrifying ukulele players of her generation. Known for her theatrical performances and fiery playing style, Taimane brings a fierce energy to the stage that captivates audiences from the first strum. A former child prodigy, she has evolved into a fearless musician, blending flamenco, classical, rock, and traditional Hawaiian influences to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Taimane’s performances often incorporate dance and dramatic flair, making her live shows as much about storytelling as they are about music. Her signature long, flowing hair and lightning-fast strumming have become trademarks of her bold, high-energy performances. Yet beneath the theatrics lies a musician with immense technical skill and a deep passion for her craft. Taimane’s ability to seamlessly blend genres and create intricate, layered compositions has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. She represents the future of the ukulele, bringing a powerful, feminine energy to an instrument often dominated by men. Through her innovative approach and dynamic stage presence, Taimane Gardner has firmly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of ukulele music.
9. Bill Tapia
Bill Tapia, often affectionately referred to as the “Duke of Uke,” had one of the longest and most illustrious careers in the history of ukulele playing. Born in 1908, Tapia began his professional music career as a young man and continued performing well into his 100s, a remarkable feat that earned him a special place in the hearts of ukulele enthusiasts around the world. His playing style was heavily influenced by jazz, and he brought a level of sophistication and improvisation to the ukulele that few had achieved before him. Tapia’s performances were filled with joy and exuberance, his love for music evident in every note he played. Over the course of his nearly century-long career, Tapia became an ambassador for both jazz and Hawaiian music, bridging the two worlds with his innovative playing style. Even in his later years, Tapia never lost his passion for the ukulele, continuing to inspire younger generations of musicians with his dedication to his craft. His legacy as both a musician and a mentor remains a shining example of what it means to love and dedicate oneself to music for a lifetime.
10. Cliff Edwards (Ukulele Ike)
Cliff Edwards, better known as “Ukulele Ike,” was one of the earliest and most beloved ukulele stars in the United States. His career spanned the golden age of vaudeville, Broadway, and Hollywood, and his playful, jazzy ukulele style made him a popular entertainer throughout the early 20th century. Edwards had a distinctive voice, which, combined with his light, cheerful strumming, created a sound that was both catchy and endearing. He is perhaps most famously known as the voice of Jiminy Cricket in Disney’s Pinocchio, where he sang the iconic song “When You Wish Upon a Star.” But long before his work in Hollywood, Ukulele Ike had already established himself as a household name through his vaudeville performances and recordings. His ukulele playing was breezy and effortless, perfectly complementing his smooth vocals, and it earned him a loyal following of fans who adored his unique style. Edwards’ influence extended beyond music, as his work in film and animation helped popularize the ukulele with a broader audience. Cliff Edwards remains a legendary figure in both the ukulele world and the entertainment industry, remembered for his charming performances and timeless contributions to American music.
11. Lyle Ritz
Lyle Ritz is widely regarded as the musician who proved the ukulele could be a serious jazz instrument. Known primarily as a bassist, Ritz’s transition to the ukulele was transformative for the instrument’s reputation, especially in the world of jazz. In the 1950s, Ritz recorded the groundbreaking album How About Uke?, which featured sophisticated jazz harmonies and melodic improvisations that had rarely been attempted on the ukulele before. His approach was revolutionary, using complex chord voicings and jazz techniques that showcased the instrument’s versatility in a genre typically dominated by guitars and pianos. Lyle Ritz’s influence didn’t end with his own recordings; he became a sought-after session musician in Los Angeles, contributing to numerous hit records as a bassist. However, it was his ukulele work that had a lasting impact on the instrument’s development, inspiring countless musicians to explore jazz on the uke. Ritz’s contributions to both jazz and Hawaiian music are still felt today, as players continue to explore the boundaries of what this small but mighty instrument can do. His legacy is cemented as a pioneer who helped the ukulele gain respect in serious musical circles, forever changing its role in modern music.
12. Brittni Paiva
Brittni Paiva is one of the brightest rising stars in the contemporary ukulele world, celebrated for her incredible versatility and technical mastery. As a multi-instrumentalist, Paiva brings a wide array of influences to her ukulele playing, blending genres like jazz, pop, and classical to create a sound that is uniquely her own. Her command of the instrument is remarkable, marked by fluid fingerpicking, intricate melodies, and a smooth, refined technique that has earned her critical acclaim from musicians and audiences alike. One of the few female ukulele virtuosos in what has historically been a male-dominated field, Paiva is not only breaking barriers but also expanding the possibilities of what the ukulele can do in modern music. She has recorded multiple albums that showcase her ability to move effortlessly between genres, demonstrating her innovative approach to composition and performance. Her music is at once soothing and technically impressive, blending intricate melodies with a soulful depth. As she continues to push the boundaries of the instrument, Paiva is blazing a trail for future generations of ukulele players, inspiring them to explore new sounds and techniques on this timeless instrument.
13. Arthur Godfrey
Arthur Godfrey was instrumental in making the ukulele a beloved instrument across America during the 1950s. As a popular television and radio host, Godfrey introduced the ukulele to millions of Americans, often teaching simple songs on air and encouraging viewers to pick up the instrument themselves. His friendly, approachable demeanor made him a perfect ambassador for the ukulele, and his broadcasts helped spark a ukulele craze that swept the nation. While Godfrey may not have been a virtuoso player in the traditional sense, his impact on the instrument’s popularity cannot be overstated. He made the ukulele accessible to everyday people, showing that it could be a fun and easy instrument to learn. His influence was so widespread that many credit him with fueling the mid-century ukulele boom, which led to a significant increase in the instrument’s sales and popularity. Through his shows, Godfrey inspired countless people to embrace the ukulele as a part of their musical lives, and his role in the instrument’s history remains a testament to the power of media in shaping musical trends. Arthur Godfrey helped bring the ukulele into mainstream American culture, making it a household favorite.
14. John King
John King was a master of both classical guitar and ukulele, bringing a unique scholarly approach to the latter that won him acclaim in both the classical and ukulele-playing communities. King is perhaps best known for his “campanella” technique, where he would play melodies across multiple strings, creating a bell-like, harp-like sound that was both mesmerizing and technically challenging. His ability to adapt classical compositions, particularly works by composers like Bach and Mozart, to the ukulele demonstrated the instrument’s surprising versatility. King’s deep understanding of the ukulele’s history and its place in music history gave him a distinct edge, allowing him to combine classical techniques with the traditional Hawaiian sound. His arrangements were intricate, precise, and always performed with a sense of grace and beauty. Beyond his performances, King was also an educator, sharing his knowledge through books, workshops, and performances, helping to elevate the status of the ukulele as a legitimate instrument in classical music circles. John King’s contributions to the world of ukulele were profound, and his campanella technique continues to inspire ukulele players looking to push the boundaries of what the instrument can achieve.
15. Daniel Ho
Daniel Ho is a Grammy-winning musician, producer, and composer whose work has helped bring Hawaiian music, particularly the ukulele, to a global audience. Known for his delicate fingerstyle playing and innovative approach to composition, Ho has elevated the ukulele to new artistic heights. His music blends traditional Hawaiian elements with world music influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. In addition to his solo work, Ho is an accomplished producer, working behind the scenes to help bring other Hawaiian artists to the forefront of the music industry. His collaborations have won him multiple Grammy Awards, and his influence has been felt across genres, from Hawaiian music to world fusion. Ho’s thoughtful arrangements and intricate playing style demonstrate the ukulele’s potential as a serious instrument, capable of conveying deep emotion and complex musical ideas. His ability to innovate while still honoring the roots of Hawaiian music has earned him widespread acclaim, and his work continues to inspire both ukulele players and musicians around the world. Daniel Ho’s contributions to the ukulele and Hawaiian music are lasting, and his influence will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.
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.
