Hawaii has produced a number of talented singers over the years, many of whom have helped to popularize traditional Hawaiian music and establish the island state as a hub for creativity and innovation in music.
One of the most famous singers from Hawaii is Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, who was born in Honolulu and became known for his soulful interpretations of traditional Hawaiian songs. Kamakawiwo’ole’s cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” has become a beloved classic, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest Hawaiian singers of all time.
Another notable singer from Hawaii is Bruno Mars, who was born in Honolulu and has become one of the most successful pop singers of the 21st century. Mars’ smooth vocals and catchy hooks, with hits such as “Just the Way You Are” and “Uptown Funk,” have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated following.
Other singers from Hawaii include Jack Johnson, who was born in Honolulu and has become known for his mellow acoustic sound and socially conscious lyrics, and Don Ho, who was born in Honolulu and became one of the most popular Hawaiian entertainers of the 1960s and 1970s with hits such as “Tiny Bubbles.”
In summary, Hawaii has produced many talented singers who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Their contributions to traditional Hawaiian music, as well as to pop, rock, and other genres, have helped to shape the sound of American music, and their legacies continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
1. Gabby Pahinui
Gabby Pahinui was a highly respected Hawaiian singer and musician, widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in Hawaiian music history. He was known for his ability to blend traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary elements, creating a sound that became instantly recognizable as his own. Pahinui's music has been described as soulful, expressive, and deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture.
He passed away in 1980, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional musicianship and an enduring influence on the wider world of music.
Continuing with Pahinui's remarkable career, he was considered an expert in playing slack-key guitar – a traditional method where strings are loosened to create chords much more suited to Polynesian-style rhythms and harmonies. The "Hawaiian Superman," as he was affectionately nicknamed by fans, had an uncanny ability to combine melody and rhythm with unique arrangements that reflect the authentic sound of Hawaii's musical heritage. His classic "Hi'ilawe" is still revered today by countless Hawaiian music enthusiasts worldwide.
Notably, Pahinui has influenced musicians outside Hawaii such as Ry Cooder who recorded his album Bop Til You Drop with Gabby's Sons & Band under Warner Bros Records adding some rock influences but largely featuring Gabby’s compositions from which several were highlighted like "Hawaiian Eye" also from Standard Deviations and "Aloha Ia O Waiana" from Pure Gabby.
A story goes that because Pahinui often played at the Honolulu hotspot La Mariana Tiki Bar, tourists would clamor around him while waiting to get into their parked cars after spending a night there. The bar owner ordered custom parking signs reading "Reserved For Gabby Pahinui" so the legendary artist could escape more easily at night when finished playing. Customers left them alone thinking it belonged to some VIP they didn’t know about!
William Kahaiali'i is proof that Hawaii produces more than just pineapples and perfect beaches.
2. William Kahaiali’i
This section features the notable singer from Hawaii, William Kahaiali’i. With his soulful and enchanting voice, Kahaiali’i has left an indelible mark on the music industry. He has released numerous albums and collaborated with many big names in the Hawaiian music industry to create a unique sound that appeals to audiences worldwide.
Kahaiali’i’s music blends traditional Hawaiian melodies with contemporary genres like R&B, pop, and jazz. In doing so, he creates an unparalleled sound that is captivating and distinctive. Moreover, Kahaiali’i is not only a talented singer but also a songwriter who has written songs for various artists.
One of the most notable aspects of Kahaiali’i’s music is how he represents Hawaii through his work. He portrays Hawaii's beauty, traditions, and culture through his songs' lyrics and music videos.
Pro Tip: Listen to William Kahaiali’i’s music to experience authentic Hawaiian rhythms fused with contemporary beats at its finest.
I guess you could say Bob Shane brought a little bit of Hawaii to The Kingston Trio's folk music scene.
3. Bob Shane
Bob Shane, the lead vocalist of the popular folk band The Kingston Trio, was a talented singer-songwriter from Hawaii. He was widely regarded for his smooth baritone voice and ability to blend various music genres.
Shane's career spanned over five decades, during which he produced several chart-topping hits like "Tom Dooley", "Scotch and Soda", and "Tijuana Jail".
Shane co-founded The Kingston Trio in 1957, and their debut album quickly climbed the music charts, ultimately selling millions of copies worldwide. The group's unique sound and folk-rock style paved the way for many other artists that followed in their footsteps. Bob Shane remained an integral part of the trio until his retirement in 2004.
Besides his successful singing career, Bob Shane also acted in a few movies and television series. His contributions to music were recognized with several awards and honors throughout his career.
Pro Tip: If you're interested in listening to some good old folk rock, check out The Kingston Trio's albums featuring Bob Shane's legendary vocals.
Glenn Medeiros proves that even a small town boy from Hawaii can serenade his way to the top of the charts.
4. Glenn Medeiros
With a career spanning over three decades, Glenn Medeiros is a famous singer-songwriter from Hawaii. He first gained popularity with his hit song "Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You" in the late 1980s and has since released multiple albums. Medeiros was also the president of Saint Louis School in Honolulu for four years before stepping down to focus on his music. His contribution to Hawaiian music continues to inspire young artists.
Besides his successful music career, Glenn Medeiros is also known for his philanthropic work, supporting causes like education, health, and cultural preservation. He has collaborated with various organizations in Hawaii and beyond to create positive change in society.
Glenn Medeiros remains a beloved figure in the Hawaiian music scene and beyond. Aspiring singers can learn from his journey and strive towards achieving their dreams like he did. Don't miss out on exploring the vibrant music culture of Hawaii that produced legends like Glenn Medeiros.
Anuhea proves that Hawaii isn't just famous for pineapples, but also for producing sweet sounds that soothe the soul.
5. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins is a renowned Hawaiian singer-songwriter with a unique talent for blending traditional acoustic elements with contemporary pop and reggae sounds. Her music has garnered worldwide recognition, particularly in the United States and Japan. Her soulful voice and compelling lyrics have won her accolades, including the 2010 Na Hoku Hanohano Female Vocalist of The Year Award.
Anuhea's musical journey began at an early age when she started writing poems and songs inspired by her island surroundings. After completing high school, she pursued her passion for music, taking gigs at local bars before launching her first album in 2009. Since then, she has released several albums and collaborated with renowned musicians such as Tarrus Riley and J Boog.
Unlike other Hawaiian singers who rely on traditional Hawaiian instruments like the ukulele or slack key guitar, Anuhea fuses different genres to create a sound that resonates with people from all walks of life. Her songs are known for their catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and infectious melodies.
An interesting fact about Anuhea is that she also hosts a podcast called "Anuhea: Aloha Always" where she shares behind-the-scenes stories about her music career, personal life, and tips for aspiring musicians. She uses this platform to connect with her fans in a more intimate way while inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
If you're looking for music that soothes your soul and makes you want to dance at the same time, Anuhea's discography is not one to miss. Give it a listen while sipping on some refreshing coconut water or lounging on a picturesque Hawaiian beach.
Yvonne Elliman may have started from the bottom, but her voice has taken her all the way to the top of Hawaii's musical scene.
6. Yvonne Elliman
Yvonne Elliman, the Hawaiian-born singer, is an accomplished artist who has made significant contributions to the music industry. Her captivating voice and ability to captivate audiences with her stage performances have made her one of Hawaii's most successful musical exports. Yvonne's rise to fame began in the early 1970s when she collaborated with Andrew Lloyd Webber on several hit musicals, including "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Evita".
Alongside her Broadway success, Yvonne also released several solo albums that showcased her vocal range and versatility. One of her biggest hits was a cover of the Bee Gees' song "If I Can't Have You," which reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1978. She also received a Grammy nomination for her performance in the hit movie "Saturday Night Fever".
Aside from her career highlights, few people know that Yvonne's love for music began at an early age. Born and raised in Honolulu, she sang in church choirs throughout her childhood, honing her gift before embarking on what would become a legendary career.
In fact, it was Yvonne's talent as a singer that brought her international acclaim and made her one of Hawaii's most famous musical exports. Her unique style and soulful delivery continue to inspire musicians worldwide today, making Yvonne Elliman truly a musical icon.
Bruno Mars may be just the way "you are," but we're all glad he decided to become a famous singer from Hawaii.
7. Bruno Mars
Hawaii has produced many talented singers over the years and one of the most famous is an artist whose real name is Peter Gene Hernandez. He is more commonly known by his stage name, Bruno Mars. Bruno Mars was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and grew up surrounded by music. He started performing at a very young age and later gained worldwide recognition for his unique blend of R&B, funk, pop, and soul music.
Bruno Mars has won numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammys and American Music Awards. He has sold millions of records worldwide and his songs have become radio staples across the globe. His energetic live performances are also renowned for their showmanship and high-energy dance routines.
Apart from being an accomplished singer, Bruno Mars is also a songwriter and record producer. He has worked with many top artists in the music industry to create hit songs that have topped charts around the world.
It's no wonder that Bruno Mars is considered one of Hawaii's most successful musical exports. His unique sound and dynamic performances have captivated audiences worldwide. If you haven't had the chance to see him perform live yet, don't miss out on this incredible artist!
James Mercer may not have been born in Hawaii, but his indie rock music can make anyone feel like they're living the island life.
8. James Mercer
James Mercer, a singer from Hawaii, is renowned for his contributions to the indie rock scene. He is the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Shins, a band known for their melodic sound and quirky lyrics. As a songwriter, he has penned tunes for various TV shows and movies. Mercer’s music has earned him critical acclaim through multiple album releases, and he continues to be an influential figure in contemporary music.
Mercer's success as a musician began with the formation of his band in 1996. Throughout their career, they have delivered chart-topping hits like “New Slang,” “Australia,” and “Simple Song”. Mercer’s talent lies in his ability to craft melodies that visually evoke moods and emotions. Lyrics-wise, his music contains intricate wordplay rooted in personal experiences & influences.
A lesser-known fact about James Mercer is that he collaborated with Gnarls Barkley's Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) to form Broken Bells in 2009. Their single "The Ghost Inside" was included on NPR Music's list of The 50 Top Songs Of 2010
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Pro Tip: James Mercer has worked with artists outside of his band The Shins, which could serve as inspiration for collaborations one may take up while pursuing music professionally.
Nicole Scherzinger proves that paradise isn't just a place, it's a state of mind when it comes to singing.
9. Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger is a renowned singer from Hawaii, who rose to fame as a lead vocalist for the famous girl group "The Pussycat Dolls." She has a diverse musical style that incorporates pop, R&B, and soulful ballads in her performances. Her exceptional vocal range and captivating stage presence have made her one of the top singers in the music industry. With several chart-topping hits to her name, Scherzinger is known for her catchy tunes, electrifying dance moves and striking beauty.
Notably, Scherzinger also ventured into television by being featured as a judge on various singing shows such as "The X Factor" and "The Masked Singer". Besides singing and judging, she has also appeared in movies like "Men in Black 3" adding versatility to her career.
Overall, Nicole Scherzinger is an iconic singer from Hawaii who continues to inspire many aspiring musicians with her talent and dedication towards music.
Jack Johnson may be known for his mellow tunes, but don't let that fool you – he's probably secretly plotting a rebellion in his hammock.
10. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson – The Music Sensation from Hawaii
Born and raised in Hawaii, Jack Johnson is a renowned singer-songwriter who has produced several hit albums worldwide. He started his career as a professional surfer but later pursued music, becoming one of the most successful singers of all time.
Johnson's music is a unique blend of acoustic and soft pop-rock, with his guitar melodies and soothing voice capturing listeners' hearts. His lyrics often revolve around personal experiences, love, and the environment.
In addition to his musical achievements, Johnson uses his fame to support environmental causes. He co-founded the Kokua Hawaii Foundation and is involved in various community-based projects aimed at preserving the planet.
Interestingly, Johnson wrote two songs for the movie "Curious George," which was nominated for an Academy Award. Among his other popular hits are "Better Together," "Banana Pancakes," and "Upside Down."
One interesting fact about Johnson is that instead of selling merchandise at concerts to avoid producing excess waste, he encourages fans to bring their own refillable water bottles to promote sustainability.
Overall, Jack Johnson's music and activism have left an indelible mark on pop culture and inspired many individuals worldwide.
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.
