Hawaii isn’t just a tropical paradise of swaying palms, golden sunsets, and crashing waves—it’s also the birthplace of some of the world’s most unforgettable voices. From the heart-melting ukulele of Bruddah Iz to the electric funk of Bruno Mars, the islands have produced an astonishing range of musical talent that continues to captivate audiences around the globe. These artists don’t just sing—they carry the spirit of aloha in every note, blending the unique rhythms, stories, and soul of Hawaii into music that transcends genres and borders.
Whether rooted in traditional Hawaiian mele, smooth island reggae, or chart-topping pop anthems, these singers represent the rich cultural mosaic that makes Hawaii so special. Their songs evoke the beauty of the islands and the strength of its people, echoing from quiet beaches to global stages. In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular and influential singers from Hawaii—artists whose voices have shaped not only island music but also left an undeniable mark on the world. Get ready to be inspired, uplifted, and maybe even a little nostalgic as we celebrate the extraordinary talents born from the land of aloha. Let the music—and the magic—begin!
1. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (“Bruddah Iz”)
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, lovingly known as Bruddah Iz, remains one of Hawaii’s most cherished and soulful voices. Born and raised in Honolulu, Iz was more than a musician—he was a cultural torchbearer. His ethereal medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” became an international symbol of serenity, hope, and aloha, touching hearts across generations and continents. With a soft, soaring voice accompanied by his gentle ukulele, Iz brought the beauty of Hawaiian music to the world in a way no one had before. His groundbreaking 1993 album Facing Future brought traditional island music into the mainstream without diluting its spirit. Beyond his artistry, he was a passionate advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty and identity, using his fame to raise awareness about the struggles and strength of his people. Despite his battles with obesity and the health challenges that followed, Iz’s heart remained larger than life. He poured every ounce of love into his music, leaving behind a legacy that feels as eternal as the ocean breeze. To listen to Bruddah Iz is to feel the warmth of Hawaii itself—gentle, enduring, and deeply human.
2. Don Ho
Don Ho wasn’t just a singer—he was the very personification of Hawaiian hospitality, charm, and music during the 1960s and ’70s. Born in Honolulu, Don became a household name with his breezy, feel-good anthem “Tiny Bubbles,” which captured the lighthearted spirit of island life. A natural entertainer, Ho turned his Waikiki nightclub shows into legendary events that drew everyone from local fans to Hollywood celebrities. His easygoing voice, charismatic stage presence, and ever-present sunglasses made him an instantly recognizable figure—not only in Hawaii, but across the mainland and beyond. Don Ho had a unique gift for blending traditional Hawaiian music with pop appeal, making island culture accessible and irresistible to a global audience. He made frequent appearances on television, introducing the world to the laid-back paradise of Hawaii long before tourism boomed. More than an entertainer, he was a cultural ambassador who radiated aloha through every note and every smile. Even years after his passing, Don Ho’s influence remains alive in the golden glow of island nostalgia and the enduring joy of his timeless tunes.
3. Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson is a mellow troubadour whose music captures the peaceful rhythm of island life. Raised on the North Shore of Oʻahu, Johnson first made waves as a professional surfer before a serious injury redirected his path toward music. What followed was a remarkable journey that blended ocean-side tranquility with thoughtful lyricism. His debut album Brushfire Fairytales (2001) introduced listeners to a new kind of acoustic sound—gentle, introspective, and deeply connected to nature. Songs like “Better Together,” “Upside Down,” and “Banana Pancakes” became anthems for a generation craving simplicity and sincerity. But Johnson didn’t stop at just making music—he became a passionate environmental advocate, founding the Kokua Hawaii Foundation and turning his concerts into models of eco-conscious touring. His relaxed vocal delivery, laid-back guitar riffs, and commitment to sustainability reflect the values of his Hawaiian upbringing. Jack Johnson isn’t just a musician—he’s a movement, representing a harmonious way of living that resonates with fans around the globe. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or dreaming of one, his music is a gentle reminder of what it means to live with aloha.
4. Bette Midler
Bette Midler may be a superstar of stage and screen, but her roots are firmly planted in the island soil of Honolulu, Hawaii, where she was born and raised. Known worldwide as “The Divine Miss M,” Midler is a dynamic performer whose career has spanned music, film, Broadway, and comedy. Her unmistakable voice, sharp comedic timing, and emotional depth have earned her an armful of accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, and a Tony. From the soul-stirring ballad “The Rose” to the retro flair of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” her music is as versatile as it is unforgettable. But Bette’s success didn’t dim her connection to Hawaii—in fact, her island upbringing contributed to her natural warmth and vibrant energy. Midler is also a devoted environmentalist, founding the New York Restoration Project and advocating for green spaces in urban areas. She is a powerhouse who has used her voice—both literally and figuratively—to entertain, inspire, and uplift. Bette Midler’s journey from the beaches of Hawaii to international stardom is a testament to talent, tenacity, and a spirit that still carries a touch of island sunshine.
5. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, is a genre-blending superstar whose music fuses retro charm with modern swagger. A child performer inspired by doo-wop and Elvis Presley—thanks in part to his family’s musical group—Bruno was destined for the spotlight from a young age. His breakthrough came with the romantic ballad “Just the Way You Are,” but it was only the beginning of a meteoric rise. Hits like “Locked Out of Heaven,” “Treasure,” “24K Magic,” and the infectious “Uptown Funk” showcase his ability to channel influences like Prince, Michael Jackson, and James Brown while crafting a sound uniquely his own. With an arsenal of Grammy Awards, sold-out tours, and Super Bowl halftime show stints, Mars is one of the most electrifying performers of his time. Despite global fame, he often nods to his Hawaiian heritage, carrying the spirit of the islands into every dazzling performance. Bruno Mars brings joy, rhythm, and old-school soul to the modern age, proving that you can take the boy out of Hawaii, but you can’t take Hawaii out of the boy.
6. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is more than a musician—he is a cultural steward whose work preserves and elevates Hawaiian traditions through song, chant, and dance. Born and raised on the island of Maui, Reichel emerged in the 1990s with a powerful voice that blended traditional Hawaiian mele with contemporary musical arrangements. His debut album Kawaipunahele quickly became a landmark in Hawaiian music, setting a new standard for authenticity and artistic excellence. A respected kumu hula (hula teacher) and Hawaiian language advocate, Reichel often integrates oli (chant) and hula into his performances, transforming concerts into immersive cultural experiences. His commitment to perpetuating Hawaiian identity through his art has earned him widespread acclaim and a host of Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards. Whether performing for local communities or international audiences, Kealiʻi Reichel’s music resonates with depth, reverence, and the spirit of aloha. His voice carries not just melody but memory—of ancestors, of land, and of a proud cultural lineage that lives on through his artistry.
7. Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom is one of Hawaii’s most powerful and versatile vocalists, a true guardian of Hawaiian music with a rich, resonant voice that commands attention. Born into a family of musicians on Maui, Amy was destined for the stage. Her early collaborations with the late Willie K brought forth hits like “Palehua,” a song that beautifully blended jazz, Hawaiian, and soul influences. With multiple Grammy nominations and over 20 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards to her name, Amy has established herself as a cornerstone of modern Hawaiian music. Her classical training and deep cultural knowledge give her performances a rare blend of technical mastery and heartfelt emotion. Whether singing in English or Hawaiian, Amy brings a sense of pride and purpose to every note. She’s also an advocate for cultural preservation and education, often working to ensure that the language, stories, and melodies of her ancestors continue to inspire future generations. Amy Hānaialiʻi doesn’t just perform Hawaiian music—she lives it, breathes it, and elevates it on every stage she graces.
8. Anuhea
Anuhea, born Rylee Anuheakeʻalaokalokelani Jenkins, is a refreshing voice in Hawaiian contemporary music who has carved out a niche with her soulful blend of island pop, reggae, and acoustic charm. Raised on Maui, Anuhea grew up immersed in Hawaiian values and culture, which shine through in her laid-back but deeply heartfelt music. Her breakout single “Simple Love Song” put her on the map as a singer-songwriter who could blend catchy hooks with genuine emotion. Over the years, she’s released a string of fan-favorite albums and built a devoted following through her honest lyrics and down-to-earth persona. Anuhea often writes about love, empowerment, and the beauty of everyday island life—subjects that resonate with listeners far beyond Hawaii. Her ability to fuse modern musical styles with her Hawaiian heritage has made her a leading voice of her generation. Whether playing a local festival or an international stage, Anuhea brings a warm, authentic presence that feels like home. She is a modern ambassador of aloha, bridging the past and present with style and soul.
9. Hapa
Hapa is a musical duo that reimagined Hawaiian music through an exquisite blend of tradition and innovation. Originally formed by Barry Flanagan and Keliʻi Kanealiʻi, Hapa’s name—meaning “part” or “mixed” in Hawaiian—symbolizes their fusion of Polynesian roots with Western folk sensibilities. Their 1993 self-titled debut album Hapa became a cornerstone of Hawaiian contemporary music, featuring unforgettable tracks like “Lei Pikake” and “Kuʻu Lei, Kuʻu Ipo.” With intricate slack-key guitar work, soaring harmonies, and poetic Hawaiian lyrics, Hapa’s music evokes the beauty of the islands with both elegance and emotional depth. Their unique sound helped introduce Hawaiian music to broader audiences, often appearing in world music festivals and international stages. Hapa doesn’t just perform songs—they create an atmosphere, transporting listeners to misty valleys, sun-kissed beaches, and sacred spaces of Hawaii. Their influence has inspired a new generation of artists to explore and honor their roots. Serene, spiritual, and breathtakingly beautiful, Hapa’s legacy continues to echo across the Pacific and beyond.
10. Willie K (Willie Kahaialiʻi)
Willie Kahaialiʻi—known simply as Willie K—was a genre-defying force of nature in the Hawaiian music scene. Hailing from Maui, Willie K was a musical chameleon who could effortlessly switch between Hawaiian falsetto, hard rock, blues, opera, and even jazz—all within the same performance. His extraordinary versatility, paired with virtuosic guitar skills and a booming stage presence, made every concert an unforgettable experience. Whether performing with longtime collaborator Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom or headlining solo, Willie K brought raw emotion and technical brilliance to every note. Standout songs like “You Kuʻuipo” highlighted his ability to blend tenderness with vocal power. His impact extended beyond music—he was a beloved figure in the community and a passionate advocate for Hawaiian culture. Even while courageously battling cancer in his final years, he continued to share his gift with fans around the world. Willie K’s legacy is one of fearless creativity, boundless energy, and a deep-rooted love for his home. He was, and remains, one of Hawaii’s true legends.s
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.
