The ukulele, with its cheerful sound and charming simplicity, has captured the hearts of music lovers around the globe. From its Hawaiian roots to its modern-day resurgence in pop culture, this four-stringed instrument has been brought to life by a myriad of talented musicians. In this article, we embark on a melodic journey through time to celebrate the top 15 best ukulele players of all time. Each artist on this list has redefined what it means to play the ukulele, showcasing its versatility across genres—from traditional Hawaiian melodies to contemporary pop and jazz.
These musicians have not only mastered the instrument but have also pushed boundaries, inspiring countless others to pick up the ukulele and strum their own stories. Whether through intricate fingerpicking or soulful strumming, their unique styles and techniques have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Join us as we explore the lives, influences, and unforgettable performances of these ukulele virtuosos. Prepare to be inspired by the magic of the ukulele, and discover who made the cut in our celebration of the finest players to ever grace the stage!
1. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro has become almost synonymous with the modern ukulele, redefining what this small, four-stringed instrument is capable of. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Jake began playing as a young boy and quickly developed a style that blends dazzling technique with heartfelt emotion. His viral rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” catapulted him to international fame, showing millions that the ukulele could deliver as much power and nuance as any guitar or piano. Known for his lightning-fast fingerwork, Jake effortlessly moves between genres, weaving together traditional Hawaiian melodies with jazz, classical, and even rock influences. But beyond technical brilliance, his music carries an unmistakable warmth—whether he’s playing a tender ballad or a lively jam, there’s always a sense of joy and connection. Through his concerts, recordings, and teaching, Jake has inspired a global wave of ukulele players, proving the instrument is far more than a novelty. He’s taken it into concert halls, onto big stages, and into the hearts of listeners worldwide. In doing so, Jake Shimabukuro hasn’t just elevated the ukulele—he’s given it a new identity, one that celebrates both its Hawaiian roots and its boundless modern potential.
2. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Few voices are as instantly recognizable—or as comforting—as that of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, lovingly called “Iz.” Born in Honolulu in 1959, Iz was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon, embodying the soul of Hawaii through every song he sang. His timeless medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” remains one of the most beloved recordings in modern music—a simple ukulele accompaniment paired with his tender, soaring voice that feels like a warm embrace. Iz’s music blended traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary touches, making it accessible to listeners far beyond the islands while never losing its authenticity. His gentle strumming and soulful vocals carried messages of peace, love, and aloha, and his songs continue to resonate decades after his passing in 1997. Though his life was tragically short, his legacy is immeasurable. Today, his music is heard at weddings, memorials, and quiet moments of reflection all around the world. Through his ukulele and voice, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole didn’t just perform—he gave listeners a piece of Hawaii’s heart and spirit that will never fade.
3. Eddie Kamae
Eddie Kamae was more than just a brilliant ukulele player—he was a pioneer, a preservationist, and one of the most important figures in the Hawaiian cultural renaissance. Born in 1927, Kamae dedicated his life to elevating Hawaiian music and ensuring its traditions were not forgotten. As a founding member of The Sons of Hawaii, he brought the ukulele from the background into the spotlight, showing that it could be as expressive and sophisticated as any instrument. His playing was graceful yet powerful, and his compositions carried the weight of Hawaii’s history and stories. But Kamae’s contributions went beyond music—he was also a filmmaker and cultural advocate, documenting and sharing the stories of Hawaiian elders and traditions so future generations could learn. For countless musicians, he was a mentor and inspiration, proving that the ukulele wasn’t just for lighthearted tunes but could also be a profound vehicle for heritage and identity. Eddie Kamae’s legacy isn’t only in the songs he played but in the culture he helped protect. Through his work, he ensured that the ukulele would remain a living, breathing part of Hawaii’s musical soul.
4. Roy Smeck
Roy Smeck, often dubbed “The Wizard of the Strings,” was one of the early 20th century’s most dazzling ukulele virtuosos and an entertainer who helped catapult the instrument into the American mainstream. Born in 1900 in Reading, Pennsylvania, Smeck wasn’t just a ukulele player—he was a multi-instrumentalist who mastered the banjo, guitar, and steel guitar as well. But it was his ukulele performances that truly captivated audiences, especially during the vaudeville era. With his lightning-fast strumming, theatrical tricks, and showmanship, Smeck transformed the ukulele into a spectacle, juggling notes with a flair that mesmerized crowds. He appeared in early sound films, recordings, and even instructional books, helping to popularize the ukulele at a time when it was still seen as a novelty. Yet, beneath his stage antics, there was a deep musicality—Smeck pushed the ukulele’s technical boundaries, laying groundwork for future generations of players. His influence rippled through decades, inspiring musicians to see the ukulele not just as a playful prop but as a serious, versatile instrument. Roy Smeck didn’t just entertain; he opened a door that countless ukulele players have since walked through.
5. Tina McBride
Tina McBride has carved out a unique space in the music world by weaving the ukulele into her country and pop songs, creating a sound that feels both fresh and familiar. Known for her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Tina discovered that the ukulele could add a layer of intimacy and warmth to her performances. Its gentle strumming provides the perfect counterbalance to her strong vocals, allowing her songs to carry an emotional weight that resonates deeply with her fans. Rather than treating the ukulele as a novelty, Tina uses it as a storytelling tool—it underscores tender moments in her music, makes quiet ballads feel even more personal, and adds charm to her upbeat tracks. This blending of country, pop, and ukulele is unconventional, but it’s exactly what makes her work stand out. Tina’s approach proves the instrument’s adaptability—it’s not confined to Hawaiian tunes or folk settings but can thrive in a wide range of genres. Her willingness to experiment has not only broadened her own artistry but has also inspired others to see the ukulele in a new light, as an instrument capable of deep emotion and surprising versatility.
6. George Harrison
George Harrison, the “quiet Beatle,” had a deep and abiding love for the ukulele, especially later in his life. Known to the world as the lead guitarist of The Beatles, Harrison was a musical innovator, and his fondness for the ukulele revealed his playful, soulful side. He collected dozens of them and was known to hand them out to friends, encouraging everyone to play. While his ukulele playing might not have been as famous as his guitar work, it brought a simplicity and charm to his music that reflected his personality—unassuming, warm, and joyful. Songs like “Something,” one of his greatest contributions to The Beatles, hint at the melodic sensibility that the ukulele nurtured in him. After The Beatles, Harrison often turned to the ukulele in his solo years, using it to craft simple, beautiful tunes that felt like quiet conversations. His love for the instrument has had a lasting impact, inspiring countless fans and musicians to pick up the ukulele themselves. Through Harrison, many discovered the instrument’s quiet magic, proving that even a legend who conquered the guitar could still be enchanted by the ukulele’s humble charm.
7. Daniel Ho
Daniel Ho is a multi-talented musician, producer, and composer whose work has reshaped the ukulele’s place in contemporary music. Born and raised in Hawaii, Ho’s artistry reflects both deep respect for his roots and a fearless drive to innovate. Over his career, he’s won multiple Grammy Awards, not only for his own recordings but also for his work producing albums that showcase Hawaiian music to the world. The ukulele is at the heart of much of what he does—his intricate arrangements and delicate touch demonstrate its capacity for beauty and complexity. Ho seamlessly blends traditional Hawaiian melodies with jazz, folk, and even classical influences, creating music that feels fresh yet deeply grounded. His collaborations with artists across genres show his belief that the ukulele belongs everywhere, not just on island beaches. Beyond his performances, Ho is a passionate advocate for education and cultural exchange, encouraging new generations to embrace the instrument and the traditions it carries. By honoring the ukulele’s Hawaiian heritage while pushing it into new musical spaces, Daniel Ho has become one of its most important ambassadors in the modern era.
8. Aldrine Guerrero
Aldrine Guerrero is a modern ukulele virtuoso who has done as much to teach the instrument as he has to perform it. Born in the Philippines and raised in Hawaii, Guerrero embodies the ukulele’s global spirit, bringing his vibrant personality and technical brilliance to everything he does. He’s perhaps best known as the co-founder of Ukulele Underground, an online platform that has taught thousands of players worldwide, from beginners strumming their first chords to advanced musicians refining their skills. Guerrero’s performances are a mix of jaw-dropping skill and infectious fun—his fingers fly across the fretboard, yet he always makes it feel approachable and joyful. He’s equally at home covering pop songs, performing traditional Hawaiian tunes, or improvising on stage, showing the ukulele’s versatility in every style. What sets Aldrine apart is his commitment to building community—through tutorials, live streams, and workshops, he’s created a welcoming space where anyone can fall in love with the ukulele. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his teaching has sparked a wave of new players, proving that the ukulele’s future is in good hands.
9. Jim Beloff
Jim Beloff has been one of the most influential figures in bringing the ukulele back into mainstream popularity. While not originally from Hawaii, Beloff fell in love with the instrument in the 1990s and made it his life’s mission to share that passion with the world. He is the author of numerous ukulele songbooks and instructional materials, including the beloved *Jumpin’ Jim’s Ukulele Songbook* series, which has helped countless beginners take their first steps into playing. But Jim isn’t just a teacher on paper—he’s also a performer, blending traditional Hawaiian styles with contemporary pop and folk influences, showing the ukulele’s wide-ranging capabilities. Through his company Flea Market Music, he has nurtured a global ukulele community, creating resources and organizing events that celebrate the joy of the instrument. Beloff has a warm, inviting style, and when he plays, it feels like he’s sharing a story with friends. Thanks to his efforts, the ukulele has become more than just a niche hobby—it’s now one of the most beloved instruments worldwide. Jim Beloff’s dedication has made him not only a respected musician but also an ambassador who has introduced countless people to the ukulele’s magic.
10. Lyle Ritz
Lyle Ritz was a groundbreaking musician who proved that the ukulele could swing just as hard as any jazz guitar or piano. Born in 1930, Ritz started his career as a bassist but became known as the “father of jazz ukulele,” pioneering a style that brought complex harmonies and rich improvisation to the instrument. In the 1950s, his recordings like *How About Uke?* stunned listeners—no one had heard the ukulele played with such sophistication and cool, jazzy elegance. Ritz later became an in-demand session musician in Los Angeles, contributing bass to countless hit records, yet he never abandoned the ukulele. He returned to it later in life, inspiring a new generation of players to see the instrument in a different light—not just for simple strumming, but as a tool for intricate musical exploration. His smooth chord voicings and melodic phrasing have influenced ukulele players across genres, leaving a legacy that blends technical mastery with soulful creativity. Lyle Ritz didn’t just play jazz on the ukulele—he redefined what the instrument could be, opening doors for those who followed.
11. Yukimi Nagano
Yukimi Nagano, the captivating vocalist of the Swedish electronic band Little Dragon (and formerly associated with Koop), brings a fresh and unexpected voice to the ukulele’s story. While she is best known for her dreamy vocals and genre-bending music that mixes soul, jazz, and electronic textures, her use of the ukulele adds an intimate, organic layer to her sound. Rather than approaching the instrument in a purely traditional way, Nagano incorporates it as part of her sonic palette, blending delicate strumming with lush electronic arrangements. This contrast creates something entirely new—the warmth of the ukulele grounding the futuristic elements of her music. Yukimi’s artistry demonstrates the ukulele’s adaptability; in her hands, it’s not just a folk or Hawaiian instrument but a bridge between worlds, connecting the digital and the acoustic. Her approach has inspired other modern musicians to experiment with the ukulele in unexpected settings, showing that its gentle voice can fit even in electronic and avant-garde music. Through Yukimi Nagano, the ukulele finds a new place in contemporary soundscapes, proving its charm knows no boundaries.
12. Herb Ohta
Herb Ohta, known affectionately as “Ohta-San,” is a true legend of the ukulele and one of the most respected figures in Hawaiian music. Born in 1934, Ohta learned from none other than Eddie Kamae, but quickly developed a style that was uniquely his own—smooth, melodic, and deeply expressive. His playing has often been described as “singing through the strings,” and it’s easy to hear why. Whether he’s performing a traditional Hawaiian standard, a pop ballad, or a jazz tune, Ohta’s touch is delicate yet full of feeling, turning the ukulele into an extension of his heart. Over his decades-long career, he has recorded countless albums, collaborated with musicians worldwide, and inspired generations of players. Ohta-San’s influence isn’t just musical—he’s a cultural ambassador, carrying the spirit of aloha wherever he performs. His dedication to the instrument has helped keep Hawaiian music alive while also pushing the ukulele into new territories. Herb Ohta’s artistry proves that the ukulele is capable of incredible depth and beauty, and his legacy will continue to shape the instrument’s future for years to come.
13. Nalu Hina
Nalu Hina is one of the brightest rising stars in the ukulele world, capturing hearts with her vibrant energy and refreshing approach to the instrument. Born and raised in Hawaii, Nalu grew up surrounded by music and the natural beauty of the islands, which both deeply influence her songwriting. Her performances are a lively mix of contemporary pop hooks and traditional Hawaiian undertones, seamlessly weaving old and new together. What makes Nalu so captivating is her ability to connect—her songs feel like conversations, full of warmth and authenticity, and her stage presence radiates joy. She isn’t afraid to experiment, incorporating different genres and modern sounds, proving that the ukulele is as relevant today as it has ever been. Through her original music and engaging live shows, she’s inspiring a younger generation to pick up the instrument, showing that the ukulele can be both fun and deeply expressive. Nalu Hina’s rise is a testament to the ukulele’s enduring magic—an instrument that continues to evolve through fresh voices like hers, carrying Hawaii’s traditions into the future while creating something entirely new.
14. Kimiye Tsukamoto
Kimiye Tsukamoto has brought the ukulele into an entirely different cultural space by blending its cheerful tones with the elegance of traditional Japanese music. Born in Japan, Tsukamoto has dedicated her career to exploring the intersection of her heritage and the global reach of the ukulele. Her compositions often fuse Japanese folk melodies with modern sensibilities, creating music that feels both timeless and contemporary. Tsukamoto’s playing is delicate and intentional—each note placed with care, every phrase shaped with emotion. She has become an ambassador for the ukulele in Japan, showing that the instrument isn’t bound by geography or style but can adapt to and enhance many traditions. In addition to performing, she teaches and collaborates with other musicians, spreading both the ukulele and her cultural roots to new audiences. Her work demonstrates how music can transcend borders, with the ukulele acting as a bridge between worlds. Through her artistry, Kimiye Tsukamoto reminds us that even a small instrument can carry big ideas—about culture, creativity, and the ways we connect through sound.
15. Kealoha Kelekolio
Kealoha Kelekolio is a beloved figure in the ukulele community, known for his boundless enthusiasm and infectious energy. Born and raised in Hawaii, Kealoha has made it his mission to share the joy of the ukulele with everyone he meets. His performances are lively and engaging—he has a way of pulling the audience into his world, whether he’s playing a traditional Hawaiian tune, an upbeat original, or a playful cover. His dynamic style combines technical skill with a deep sense of fun, reminding listeners that music doesn’t just have to be heard—it should be felt and experienced. Kealoha also dedicates much of his time to teaching and outreach, leading workshops and community events that bring people together through the ukulele. He sees the instrument not just as a tool for music, but as a tool for connection, carrying the spirit of aloha wherever it goes. Kealoha Kelekolio’s passion has inspired countless players to pick up the ukulele, proving that the instrument’s magic lies not just in the music it makes, but in the joy it spreads.
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.
