Hawaii is more than just a tropical paradise—it’s a place where music flows as naturally as the ocean waves and the spirit of aloha sings through every melody. From the soulful strums of the ʻukulele to chart-topping global hits, the islands have produced an extraordinary lineup of artists who’ve not only defined Hawaiian music but have also left their mark on the world stage. Whether it’s the heart-stirring voice of Bruddah Iz or the electrifying energy of Bruno Mars, these musicians carry the essence of Hawaii in every note. Their songs tell stories of love, land, resilience, and joy, bridging cultures and generations through sound. In this list of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from Hawaii, we celebrate the voices that have shaped the musical identity of the Aloha State. Some are legends whose legacies continue to inspire, while others are modern icons redefining what it means to be an artist from the islands. No matter the genre—pop, reggae, Hawaiian, soul, or folk—these performers share one thing in common: a deep-rooted connection to their heritage and a passion for sharing it with the world. Get ready to meet the voices that make Hawaii sing.
1. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (Bruddah Iz)
Few voices have captured the soul of a place quite like Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s did for Hawaii. Known lovingly as “Bruddah Iz,” his music transcends language and borders, carrying the gentle breeze and deep history of the islands with every note. His iconic medley of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World is more than a song—it’s an emotional experience that has touched millions around the globe. Israel’s vocal delivery is both haunting and soothing, floating tenderly over his ukulele in a way that feels like a lullaby from the heart of the Pacific. Beyond the beauty of his music, Iz was a passionate advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty and cultural preservation, using his platform to raise awareness about native rights. Despite his untimely passing in 1997, his legacy remains deeply embedded in Hawaii’s musical identity. His voice still echoes through the islands, reminding listeners of the power of simplicity, spirit, and aloha.
2. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars is the ultimate island-born global superstar. Born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, he took the world by storm with his genre-blending mastery of pop, funk, soul, and R&B. With his smooth vocals, infectious energy, and retro flair, Mars has carved a lane that’s all his own in modern music. From the heartfelt Just the Way You Are to the electrifying Uptown Funk, his hits are anthems that bridge generations. Bruno’s musical roots trace back to his childhood, performing in Waikiki shows as a young Elvis impersonator. That early exposure to performance shaped his magnetic stage presence, now a hallmark of his sold-out concerts and Super Bowl halftime shows. What sets Mars apart is his ability to reinvent while staying true to his flair for the dramatic and the romantic. While he doesn’t always spotlight his Hawaiian roots in his mainstream releases, the spirit of aloha—the joy, rhythm, and warmth—is unmistakably woven into everything he does.
3. Don Ho
To speak of Hawaiian entertainment history without mentioning Don Ho would be a disservice. The legendary crooner became the face and sound of Waikiki nightlife in the 1960s and beyond, thanks to his signature song Tiny Bubbles, which turned into an anthem for island relaxation. Ho’s charm wasn’t just in his velvet voice but in his charismatic stage presence, often performing in intimate lounge settings that felt more like family gatherings than concerts. He had a unique ability to blend traditional Hawaiian melodies with a Las Vegas-style showmanship, drawing in tourists and locals alike. A former Air Force pilot turned entertainer, Don Ho gained national attention with television appearances and even had his own variety show. Through it all, he remained deeply connected to Hawaii, often using humor and music to bridge cultures. His legacy lives on not just in recordings, but in the generation of performers he inspired to carry on the aloha spirit with pride and flair.
4. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson might be one of the most unassuming global music stars, but that’s part of his magic. Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Johnson was a professional surfer before a life-changing accident pushed him toward music—and what a gift that turned out to be. His mellow acoustic sound, infused with island breezes and thoughtful lyrics, has resonated with fans across the world since his breakout album Brushfire Fairytales. Songs like Better Together and Banana Pancakes are the musical equivalent of a warm hug, perfect for beach bonfires or lazy Sunday mornings. Beyond his artistry, Johnson is a passionate environmentalist, using both his platform and profits to support sustainability and ocean conservation. He’s also a pioneer in green touring, making eco-conscious choices a core part of his brand. Jack’s music is never flashy, but it’s always genuine—a reflection of the island life ethos he lives and breathes daily.
5. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is more than a singer—he’s a cultural torchbearer for Hawaii. With a voice that flows like a chant and a deep reverence for tradition, Reichel has dedicated his career to preserving and promoting Hawaiian language, hula, and storytelling through song. His debut album Kawaipunahele was a groundbreaking moment in modern Hawaiian music, resonating deeply with both native speakers and new listeners. Each performance is a spiritual experience, often accompanied by dancers from his hālau (hula school), weaving together mele (song) and hula in a seamless cultural tapestry. Reichel’s commitment to authenticity sets him apart; he doesn’t just sing about Hawaii—he lives it. His music is a bridge between the past and present, keeping ancestral voices alive while crafting melodies that feel timeless. Whether in an intimate concert hall or a massive outdoor venue, Kealiʻi’s presence is magnetic, heartfelt, and steeped in aloha.
6. Makua Rothman
Makua Rothman is the rare artist who commands both the ocean and the stage with equal power. Known globally as a world-champion big wave surfer, Rothman brings that same fearlessness and soul to his music. Born on Oahu’s North Shore, Makua grew up immersed in the rhythms of both nature and Hawaiian tradition. His music blends reggae, acoustic rock, and island vibes into a sound that’s as bold as it is breezy. Tracks like The One and Only showcase his raw vocals and introspective songwriting, often reflecting on identity, perseverance, and his deep connection to the land and sea. Rothman’s journey from the surf lineup to the recording studio isn’t just a career pivot—it’s an extension of his storytelling. He infuses his songs with mana (spiritual energy), offering listeners a soundtrack that feels both empowering and rooted. Whether you know him for riding 60-foot waves or laying down chill island grooves, Makua is undeniably a force of nature.
7. Anuhea
Anuhea is the modern voice of island soul—effortlessly blending acoustic pop, reggae, and R&B into a sound that’s fresh, flirty, and unmistakably Hawaiian. Born Rylee Anuheakeʻalaokalokelani Jenkins on Maui, she carries her heritage proudly, but with a contemporary twist that resonates far beyond the islands. From the sweet simplicity of Simple Love Song to the sultry vibes of Come Over Love, Anuhea’s music captures the highs and lows of love, life, and self-discovery with relatable honesty. Her songwriting is as personal as it is poetic, often drawing from her own experiences as a woman, mother, and artist navigating a complex world. Anuhea’s rise came through hustle and heart—she’s toured extensively, built a loyal fanbase, and remained fiercely independent in an industry that often boxes in female artists. Her live shows are vibrant and intimate, filled with laughter, storytelling, and aloha. Anuhea isn’t just an artist—she’s a vibe.
8. Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom is a powerhouse vocalist with a voice as rich and refined as a vintage red wine. Hailing from a family steeped in musical and theatrical tradition, Amy has long been a dominant force in Hawaiian music. Her vocals soar with operatic strength and island soul, allowing her to move effortlessly between traditional Hawaiian ballads and jazz-infused arrangements. Her breakout hit Palehua, a collaboration with Willie K, remains one of Hawaii’s most beloved modern classics. Amy’s artistry is rooted in cultural pride, but she’s never been afraid to push boundaries—melding genres and showcasing the versatility of Hawaiian music on the world stage. Having earned dozens of Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and multiple Grammy nominations, she continues to uplift Hawaiian identity through both music and activism. Whether backed by a full orchestra or strumming an ʻukulele, Amy’s performances are elegant, emotional, and unforgettable.
9. Willie K (William Kahaialiʻi)
Willie K was a musical chameleon, capable of jumping from opera to blues to Hawaiian slack key guitar with jaw-dropping ease. Born and raised on Maui, he became one of Hawaii’s most beloved and versatile performers, often described as a “one-man musical renaissance.” He was equally at home belting out Puccini as he was jamming to Led Zeppelin or crooning a traditional Hawaiian love song. Collaborations with Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom brought him into the spotlight, but his solo work cemented him as a legend. His live shows were nothing short of electrifying—packed with humor, emotion, and raw talent. Willie K was more than a musician; he was a storyteller, a showman, and a cultural icon who poured his mana into every note. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, he continued to perform with bravery and brilliance until his passing in 2020. His legacy remains, a testament to the boundless spirit of Hawaiian music.
10. Natalie Ai Kamauu
Natalie Ai Kamauu sings like someone born with the islands in her soul—and perhaps that’s because she was. Raised in a family of hula practitioners, her upbringing was steeped in traditional Hawaiian culture, and it shines through in every note she sings. Her voice is crystalline and emotionally precise, capable of capturing the delicate nuances of Hawaiian lyrics while also delivering powerhouse performances. Her debut album ʻĒ was a revelation, earning her multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and establishing her as a leading voice in contemporary Hawaiian music. Kamauu doesn’t just sing songs—she tells stories, often accompanied by hula that enhances the emotional depth of her performances. With each new release, she continues to elevate the genre, proving that Hawaiian music can be both rooted and revolutionary. Whether singing to a crowd of thousands or in an intimate setting, Natalie’s voice is a gift to anyone lucky enough to hear it.
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.
