Hawaii may be best known for its breathtaking beaches, lush landscapes, and the spirit of aloha—but the islands have also given rise to some of the most captivating voices in music history. From the soothing strums of the ukulele floating on a tropical breeze to the electrifying beats of global pop anthems, Hawaii’s musicians have made their mark across every genre imaginable. These artists don’t just entertain—they tell stories, preserve culture, and share the soul of the islands with the world.
In this list of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from Hawaii, we celebrate the voices that have risen from the shores of the Pacific to the world stage. Some have become international superstars, others are treasured local legends, but all share a deep connection to the islands that shaped them. Whether it’s the timeless grace of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, the chart-topping brilliance of Bruno Mars, or the genre-defying energy of Willie K, each artist brings something unique to the musical landscape. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to discover (or rediscover) the Hawaiian artists who continue to inspire, uplift, and redefine what it means to sing with aloha.
1. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (“IZ”)
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, lovingly known as “Bruddah IZ,” was far more than a musician — he was the voice of the Hawaiian soul. Born and raised on Oʻahu, IZ used his ukulele and angelic voice to bring the spirit of aloha to the world. His iconic medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” has become a universal hymn of hope and healing, played at weddings, memorials, and in countless films. Despite his large physical presence, his voice was feather-light — tender, soothing, and emotionally piercing. IZ’s music wasn’t just entertainment; it was a form of activism. He sang for native Hawaiian rights, environmental protection, and cultural pride, always with humility and love. His songs mixed traditional mele with folk and pop elements, creating a sound that felt both ancient and fresh. Though he passed away in 1997, his music lives on, and so does his message of peace. Bruddah IZ remains a cultural treasure, whose music continues to comfort and connect people across the globe.
2. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, is a genre-blending, chart-topping dynamo who has redefined modern pop with his electrifying charisma and extraordinary talent. Raised in a musically rich family, Bruno was performing on Waikiki stages before most kids his age had learned to ride a bike. That early start built the foundation for a performer who now dominates arenas worldwide. His music spans funk, R&B, soul, reggae, and pop, each infused with his signature vintage flair and modern polish. Smash hits like “Uptown Funk,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” and “24K Magic” show off not just his vocal prowess but his gift for crafting songs that feel timeless yet fresh. His stage presence, honed from childhood, is magnetic — a true entertainer in the spirit of James Brown and Prince. Despite his global fame, Bruno often acknowledges the cultural roots and tight-knit community of his Hawaiian upbringing, crediting it for grounding him. With numerous Grammy Awards, a Super Bowl halftime show, and a growing catalog of hits, Bruno Mars isn’t just riding the wave of success — he’s making waves that influence the music world at large.
3. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson’s music is the sound of serenity — smooth, acoustic, and full of soul. Born on the North Shore of Oʻahu, Johnson grew up immersed in surf culture, becoming a professional surfer in his youth. A serious injury shifted his focus from waves to words, and he quickly carved out a niche in the music world with his introspective lyrics and easygoing melodies. His breakout album Brushfire Fairytales set the tone for a career that blends mellow rhythms with deep emotional resonance. Songs like “Banana Pancakes,” “Better Together,” and “Upside Down” became anthems for relaxed living and heartfelt reflection. But Johnson is more than a laid-back troubadour — he’s a passionate environmentalist who walks the talk. Through his Kokua Foundation, he supports sustainability and environmental education in Hawaii. His tours are models of eco-conscious practice, and his lyrics often reflect themes of simplicity, mindfulness, and nature. Jack Johnson brings more than music to his listeners — he brings a lifestyle rooted in aloha, balance, and authenticity. His artistry proves that being mellow doesn’t mean being mild — it can be powerful, purposeful, and deeply moving.
4. Don Ho
Don Ho was Hawaii’s original ambassador of song — a beloved entertainer who introduced the world to the charm and spirit of the islands. Born in Honolulu and raised in Kaneohe, Ho’s path to stardom began after serving in the U.S. Air Force. He started performing in Waikiki nightclubs in the 1960s, quickly becoming a must-see attraction with his smooth voice, easygoing personality, and signature song “Tiny Bubbles.” Ho’s shows were a vibrant mix of music, comedy, and aloha spirit, drawing everyone from locals to Hollywood stars. He made Hawaiian music accessible to a global audience without losing its cultural essence, bridging the gap between tradition and pop appeal. His influence extended beyond entertainment — he played a vital role in popularizing Hawaiian identity during a time of cultural shift. Don Ho wasn’t just a performer; he was a symbol of Hawaiian hospitality and warmth. Even after his passing in 2007, his legacy continues to echo in the voices of performers who follow in his footsteps. With his signature smile and easy laugh, Don Ho remains a timeless icon whose presence still lights up Hawaii’s musical history.
5. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, known affectionately as “The Divine Miss M,” is a force of talent, wit, and heart — and she got her start right in Honolulu. Raised in Hawaii, Midler’s dynamic personality and powerhouse vocals set her apart from the very beginning. Her rise to stardom began in the 1970s with a cabaret act that blended bawdy comedy, theatrical flair, and genuine musical artistry. She quickly earned acclaim for her emotional depth and vocal range in hits like “The Rose,” “Wind Beneath My Wings,” and “From a Distance.” Midler’s performances are equal parts heartfelt and hilarious, a rare blend that has earned her Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Awards — not to mention an Oscar nomination. Beyond the stage and screen, she’s a tireless advocate for environmental and social causes, founding organizations like the New York Restoration Project. Her Hawaiian upbringing instilled in her a vibrant appreciation for community and the natural world, influences still felt in her work today. Bette Midler isn’t just an entertainer — she’s a cultural icon whose boldness, compassion, and unshakable authenticity have made her a beloved figure across generations.
6. Willie K (Willie Kahaiali‘i)
Willie Kahaiali‘i, known to fans simply as Willie K, was a once-in-a-generation artist whose musical versatility knew no limits. Born in Lahaina, Maui, he grew up surrounded by music and culture, learning from his father and soon mastering multiple instruments — especially the guitar. What made Willie K truly unique was his genre-defying ability: he could sing Hawaiian mele with the same soul he brought to opera, blues, rock, and jazz. One moment he’d be performing a falsetto chant; the next, he’d belt out a blistering blues solo. His collaborations with artists like Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom and Mick Fleetwood reflected his rare ability to fuse styles without losing his roots. Willie K wasn’t just a performer; he was a storyteller, activist, and proud Hawaiian who used his voice to share both joy and struggle. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, he continued to perform with intensity and heart, never letting the illness dull his spirit. His passing in 2020 was deeply felt across the islands, but his influence endures. Willie K leaves behind a rich legacy — a reminder that music, when rooted in love and culture, can transcend every boundary.
7. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro took the humble ukulele and turned it into a global sensation. Born and raised in Honolulu, Jake grew up immersed in traditional Hawaiian music, but he saw limitless potential in the four-stringed instrument. His viral rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” catapulted him to international fame, showcasing jaw-dropping technique and a level of emotional expression rarely associated with the ukulele. Jake’s playing blends classical precision, jazz improvisation, rock energy, and island soul — often all in the same piece. Whether reimagining Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” or composing cinematic originals, his performances are marked by both technical brilliance and heartfelt sincerity. He’s played with everyone from Yo-Yo Ma to Cyndi Lauper and has brought the ukulele to stages around the world, including the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Despite the acclaim, Jake remains grounded and deeply connected to his Hawaiian roots. Through his music, workshops, and outreach, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians. Jake Shimabukuro doesn’t just play the ukulele — he elevates it, proving that even the smallest instrument can tell the grandest stories.
8. Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom is one of Hawaii’s most powerful and respected voices, blending tradition, elegance, and strength into every performance. Born into a renowned Maui musical family, Amy was trained in classical music, but her heart beats strongest in the rhythms of her Hawaiian heritage. Her voice — warm, rich, and expressive — breathes life into traditional mele while seamlessly integrating jazz, pop, and soul. Her groundbreaking work with Willie K in the 1990s revitalized Hawaiian music for a new generation, and her solo career only expanded her influence. A multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner and Grammy nominee, Amy is as celebrated for her cultural advocacy as she is for her artistry. She frequently incorporates hula, storytelling, and the Hawaiian language into her performances, creating immersive and deeply moving experiences. Amy is also a champion for native Hawaiian rights and women in the arts, using her platform to uplift both community and culture. Through her music and mission, Amy Hānaialiʻi continues to enrich the tapestry of Hawaiian music — honoring the past, empowering the present, and inspiring the future.
9. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins brings a fresh and contemporary voice to Hawaiian music, blending laid-back island vibes with heartfelt storytelling and modern pop appeal. Born and raised on Maui, Anuhea grew up surrounded by music, nature, and cultural pride — all of which find their way into her songs. Her breakout single “Simple Love Song” introduced the world to her signature style: breezy melodies, relatable lyrics, and an effortless charm that feels like a conversation with an old friend. Drawing from reggae, acoustic pop, and R&B, Anuhea creates music that resonates with a broad audience while remaining deeply rooted in her identity. She embraces her mixed heritage and often weaves themes of empowerment, love, and personal growth into her work. Whether performing for intimate island crowds or touring internationally, Anuhea has built a loyal following drawn to her authenticity and warmth. She represents a new generation of Hawaiian musicians — one that honors tradition while confidently exploring new sounds and stories. Through her songs, Anuhea offers listeners a soulful blend of reflection and joy, always wrapped in the spirit of aloha.
10. Na Leo Pilimehana
Na Leo Pilimehana — which translates to “the voices blending in warmth” — is a name that perfectly captures the essence of Hawaii’s most enduring female vocal group. Formed in the early 1980s by childhood friends Nalani Jenkins, Angela Morales, and Lehua Kalima, Na Leo became trailblazers in Hawaiian music, seamlessly fusing traditional melodies with contemporary pop and R&B influences. Their smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences across generations, with hits like “Local Boys,” “Flying with Angels,” and “Rest of Your Life” becoming beloved anthems. Over the years, they’ve garnered multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and maintained a presence in both island and international music scenes. What truly sets Na Leo apart is their unwavering commitment to values like ohana (family), kuleana (responsibility), and aloha. They’ve balanced long-standing careers with motherhood, community involvement, and mentorship, becoming role models for young women in the arts. Whether performing in Hawaiian or English, their music continues to uplift and connect people, offering a sense of comfort and unity. Na Leo Pilimehana remains a shining example of how harmony — both musical and human — can stand the test of time.
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.
