Hawaii is more than just a tropical paradise—it’s a rich cultural hub bursting with vibrant sounds, soulful rhythms, and unforgettable voices. From the islands’ sun-kissed shores have emerged some of the most iconic and influential singers in the world, artists who have not only captured the spirit of aloha but also shaped global music with their undeniable talent. Whether it’s the smooth falsetto of Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole, the genre-defying brilliance of Bruno Mars, or the laid-back charm of Jack Johnson, Hawaii has given rise to voices that transcend borders and generations. These artists blend tradition with innovation, fusing Hawaiian roots with everything from pop and R&B to folk, jazz, and soul. In this list of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from Hawaii, we dive into the lives and legacies of the voices that have made the islands sing. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the table—some uplifting and mellow, others bold and electrifying—but all deeply connected to their island heritage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering these voices for the first time, prepare to be inspired by the passion, power, and aloha that define Hawaii’s musical legends. Let’s celebrate the stars who put the islands on the global stage!
1. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, is a musical force with unmatched charisma and range. From his early days performing in a family band to headlining sold-out stadiums, Bruno’s rise is a testament to sheer talent and relentless showmanship. He blends funk, soul, pop, R&B, and rock into a sound that’s retro yet refreshingly modern. With a voice that soars effortlessly over tight grooves and slick melodies, Bruno has gifted the world with mega-hits like “Uptown Funk,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” and “24K Magic.” His stage presence channels the spirit of legends like Prince and James Brown, while his songwriting skills have helped craft anthems not only for himself but for other major artists. A multiple Grammy winner and cultural icon, Bruno Mars puts Hawaiian-born talent on the global map with each performance.
2. Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole (Iz)
Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole, affectionately known as “Iz,” is a Hawaiian legend whose voice continues to resonate far beyond the islands. Born in Honolulu, Iz captured hearts worldwide with his hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World.” His gentle vocals paired with ukulele strumming created a sound that feels like a lullaby from paradise. More than a singer, Iz was a cultural ambassador, using his music to advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty and native rights. Despite his struggles with health, his music carried an unmatched warmth, serenity, and authenticity. His 1993 album Facing Future remains a staple in Hawaiian households and is one of the best-selling Hawaiian albums of all time. Even after his passing in 1997, Iz’s music continues to uplift and inspire across generations and continents.
3. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson is the mellow voice of surfside serenity, hailing from Oahu’s North Shore. Originally a professional surfer, Johnson shifted gears after a serious accident and found his true calling in music. His acoustic-driven sound is the embodiment of laid-back island living—songs like “Banana Pancakes,” “Flake,” and “Better Together” have become modern anthems of calm. His music isn’t just about feel-good vibes; it’s deeply introspective and rooted in environmental awareness. Johnson is also a committed activist, founding the Kokua Hawaii Foundation and promoting sustainability through his tours and lifestyle. With his soothing vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Jack Johnson has carved out a unique niche in folk-pop, serving as both a chilled-out troubadour and an environmental hero.
4. Don Ho
Don Ho was Hawaii’s original musical ambassador, a beloved crooner whose smooth voice and easygoing charm made him an icon of the islands. Best known for his signature hit “Tiny Bubbles,” Ho became a fixture in Waikiki lounges and Las Vegas stages during the 1960s and ‘70s. With his laid-back charisma and knack for blending traditional Hawaiian melodies with pop sensibilities, Ho captivated both tourists and locals. He helped usher Hawaiian music into the mainstream, often performing with aloha shirt flair and a cocktail in hand. Beyond his music, Don Ho embodied the spirit of Hawaii—welcoming, joyful, and proudly rooted in his culture. His legacy continues to echo in island entertainment, paving the way for future generations of Hawaiian artists.
5. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro has taken the humble ukulele and transformed it into a world-class instrument of virtuosity. A prodigy from Honolulu, he gained viral fame in the early 2000s with his jaw-dropping rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” played solo on ukulele. Since then, Jake has become an international sensation, touring the world and collaborating with legends like Yo-Yo Ma and Bela Fleck. His style seamlessly bridges classical, rock, jazz, and traditional Hawaiian influences. Whether he’s reinterpreting Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” or performing original compositions, Shimabukuro infuses every note with emotion and precision. Far from novelty, Jake’s work proves that the ukulele is a legitimate vehicle for artistic expression, and he’s become one of Hawaii’s proudest musical exports.
6. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins, known simply as Anuhea, brings a refreshing, heartfelt presence to Hawaii’s modern music scene. Born on Maui, she combines reggae, R&B, and island pop into a style that’s uniquely her own. Her breakout single “Simple Love Song” introduced her as a storyteller with a soothing voice and infectious melodies. Anuhea’s songwriting draws on personal experiences—love, heartbreak, growth—and resonates deeply with fans across the Pacific and beyond. Her music is uplifting, often wrapped in optimism and aloha, and she’s become a role model for young Hawaiian women in music. Through authenticity and charm, Anuhea has cultivated a loyal fanbase, becoming a staple of Hawaii’s contemporary soundscape and a celebrated artist in the Pacific reggae scene.
7. Willie K (William Kahaiali‘i)
Willie K was a musical chameleon—equally capable of performing traditional Hawaiian chants, bluesy rock, or operatic arias. A native of Maui, his powerful voice and masterful guitar work made him a revered figure in Hawaii’s music community. Willie’s stage shows were legendary for their spontaneity and emotional intensity. He could make you laugh with a humorous Hawaiian song, then bring the house to silence with a soulful ballad. His collaborations with Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom, particularly on Hawaiian classics, earned critical acclaim and multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards. Willie K’s fearless genre-blending and raw authenticity allowed him to defy categorization, and his influence remains palpable even after his passing in 2020. He was, and always will be, a musical treasure of the islands.
8. Emma Veary
Emma Veary is a name synonymous with elegance and timeless grace in Hawaiian music. Born and raised in Honolulu, she studied classical voice in the mainland U.S. but returned home to become one of Hawaii’s premier sopranos. Her performances in Waikiki showrooms and with the Honolulu Symphony helped shape the golden era of Hawaiian entertainment in the 1960s and ‘70s. Emma’s renditions of traditional Hawaiian songs are noted for their clarity, emotional depth, and operatic polish. She brought a refined presence to local music, bridging classical training with island tradition. Veary’s influence as a cultural icon and her contributions to preserving Hawaiian music have earned her lasting recognition and deep respect across the islands.
9. Makana
Makana, a Honolulu-born slack-key guitar virtuoso, is a trailblazer who pushes Hawaiian music into new dimensions. Rooted in the ancient art of kī hō‘alu, Makana adds his own modern twist—blending folk, rock, and even political commentary into his songs. His lightning-fast fingerpicking and ethereal vocals have earned him comparisons to guitar legends, but his sound remains uniquely his own. Not afraid to tackle controversial topics, Makana once performed a protest song at an international summit, earning headlines worldwide. Whether channeling ancient Hawaiian spirits or speaking truth to power, Makana uses music as a tool for both cultural preservation and innovation. His artistry proves that tradition and rebellion can coexist beautifully.
10. Kimié Miner
Kimié Miner is one of Hawaii’s most exciting contemporary voices, blending soulful vocals with heartfelt songwriting and a deep love for her heritage. Raised between the Big Island and Honolulu, Kimié’s music draws from reggae, pop, and R&B influences while remaining rooted in aloha spirit. Her breakout album Kimié Miner showcased her versatility and earned her a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award. With a honeyed voice and introspective lyrics, she crafts songs that are both intimate and empowering, like “New Day” and “Bottom of a Rainbow.” Beyond the music, Kimié is a proud advocate for Hawaiian culture and women in the arts, founding Haku Collective to support local musicians. She represents a new generation of island artists making waves worldwide.
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.
