Hawaiian Concert Guide

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A weekly podcast featuring Hawaiian artists and halau performing off-island and around the world.

  1. Oct 18

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 711 - Cheating Cherimoyas

    🌺🎶 HAWAIIAN CONCERT GUIDE — SHOW 711 🎶🌺 🌴 Love In Me — From Contemporary Hawaiian Voices to Vintage Island Nostalgia 10 Songs • 5 Featured Artists • A Musical Journey Through Generations of Hawaiian Music Aloha, Hawaiian music lovers! 🤙 Welcome to Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 711, where we're celebrating the many sounds, stories, and traditions that make Hawaiian music so special. This episode takes us on a fascinating musical journey — from contemporary Hawaiian artists sharing deeply personal stories about family, cultural identity, and their connection to the ʻāina, to the nostalgic sounds of mid-century exotica and Hollywood's famous interpretations of island music. We'll feature new-generation Hawaiian voices Kimié Miner, Baba Tavares, and Kalaʻe Camarillo, before turning back the clock with Martin Denny and the legendary Elvis Presley. It's a show filled with aloha, beautiful melodies, Hawaiian history, and a few musical surprises along the way! ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌺 FEATURED ARTIST #1: KIMIÉ MINER Album: Kuʻu Hawaiʻi (2025) We begin our journey with award-winning Hawaiian singer-songwriter Kimié Miner and her deeply personal EP, Kuʻu Hawaiʻi, released November 14, 2025. The album explores themes of motherhood, self-love, Hawaiian identity, cultural heritage, and connection to the land. Kimié's music blends contemporary arrangements with meaningful Hawaiian storytelling, creating an intimate listening experience that celebrates both personal growth and cultural belonging. 🎵 1. Love In Me (Interlude) — featuring ʻŌmealani ⏱️ 1:06 What a beautiful way to begin our show! This intimate recording features Kimié alongside her daughter, ʻŌmealani. The song explores the importance of learning to love ourselves and passing that love and confidence to future generations. It's a touching reminder that aloha begins within us and extends outward to our families, communities, and the people around us. Listen for: The personal connection between mother and daughter and the message of intergenerational love. 🎵 2. Sweet Island Air — featuring Hāwane Rios ⏱️ 4:12 Kimié is joined by fellow Hawaiian artist Hāwane Rios for a beautiful collaboration that evokes the atmosphere and spirit of the islands. The title invites us to appreciate Hawaiʻi not simply as a tropical destination, but as a homeland filled with living traditions, relationships, and deep cultural meaning. Coming immediately after "Love In Me," this song provides a natural transition from love for oneself and family to love for Hawaiʻi. Listen for: The collaboration between two contemporary Hawaiian voices and the musical expression of aloha ʻāina — love and care for the land. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌋 FEATURED ARTIST #2: BABA TAVARES Album: Hanohano Hōnaunau (2025) Next, we're heading to South Kona on Hawaiʻi Island with Hawaiian composer and performer Joshua "Baba" Tavares. His six-song EP, Hanohano Hōnaunau, takes listeners on a musical journey through the communities and landscapes of Kona Hema (South Kona). What makes this album especially interesting is its origin. The compositions were originally created for Glitter in the Paʻakai, a Hawaiian theatrical production presented at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in February 2024 through the Hana Keaka Hawaiʻi program. The album celebrates family history, ancestral connections, Hawaiian place names, and the communities that have shaped generations of island residents. Its title, Hanohano Hōnaunau, expresses honor and praise for Hōnaunau. Baba Tavares has also received Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award recognition for his contributions to Hawaiian music. 🎵 3. Hoʻokena ⏱️ 3:05 Our first stop is Hoʻokena, a historic coastal community in South Kona. For generations, Hoʻokena has been associated with Hawaiian families, fishing traditions, and the enduring relationship between people and the ocean. This song is part of Baba's larger musical tribute to the places that hold his family's history. Rather than treating the landscape as scenery, Baba's compositions remind us that Hawaiian place names carry memories, cultural knowledge, and ancestral significance. Cultural connection: Hoʻokena represents a living community with a rich cultural history, making this selection a meaningful musical tribute to place and belonging. 🎵 4. Mauna Loa ⏱️ 3:44 From the South Kona coastline, we turn our attention toward magnificent Mauna Loa. The Hawaiian name Mauna Loa means "Long Mountain." One of the world's largest active volcanoes, Mauna Loa dominates much of Hawaiʻi Island's geography. Its most recent eruption occurred in 2022. But in Hawaiian culture, mountains represent much more than geological landmarks. They are part of the ancestral, spiritual, and environmental landscape. Within the context of Baba's album, this song continues a musical journey honoring the land and the communities of Hawaiʻi Island. Fun fact: Mauna Loa is a shield volcano, formed through repeated flows of relatively fluid lava that created its enormous, gently sloping profile. Behind the album: The EP features production and instrumental work by Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, who contributed ʻukulele, guitar, bass, and piano. Mixing and mastering were handled by Michael Grande. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌈 FEATURED ARTIST #3: KALAʻE CAMARILLO Album: Drifting On Island Time (2025) Now we're shifting into contemporary island sounds with talented Hawaiian singer-songwriter Kalaʻe Camarillo. Coming from a musical family, Kalaʻe is a third-generation music educator who has built a successful career blending Hawaiian influences with acoustic, folk, and contemporary singer-songwriter traditions. His musical journey has included performing with his brother Kamaka as the Camarillo brothers and developing a successful solo career. Previous albums include Working Man (2017), Feel at Home (2019), and Child of These Islands (2022). His music has earned multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, including major recognition in 2024 for "Sands of Old Lahaina." His 2025 release, Drifting On Island Time, continues his exploration of island life, personal relationships, memories, and the people and places that matter most. 🎵 5. Paradise In You ⏱️ 3:18 Here's a song title that gives us something wonderful to think about. When we hear the word "paradise," we often imagine palm trees, beautiful beaches, and tropical sunsets. But perhaps paradise isn't always a destination. Sometimes we find it in the people we love, the relationships we cherish, and the meaningful moments we share. "Paradise In You" brings that romantic perspective into our musical journey. Musical connection: This selection offers a contemporary perspective on love and happiness, contrasting with the more place-centered Hawaiian compositions earlier in the show. 🎵 6. Dance In The Colors of Spring ⏱️ 4:18 What an evocative title! Spring often represents renewal, hope, new beginnings, and the beauty of life's changing seasons. The imagery of dancing among the colors of spring offers a wonderful sense of movement, warmth, and appreciation for the present moment. Kalaʻe's modern island songwriting is a fitting bridge between traditional Hawaiian influences and contemporary popular music. Listen for: The contemporary singer-songwriter approach and the colorful, uplifting imagery suggested by the song's title. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌴 FEATURED ARTIST #4: MARTIN DENNY Album: Exotica Volume II (1958) Now we're turning back the clock to the fascinating world of 1950s exotica! Meet Martin Denny (1911–2005), one of the pioneers of a musical style that became closely associated with tropical lounges, tiki culture, and the romanticized image of Hawaiʻi. Denny developed his distinctive sound while performing in Waikīkī, including at the famous Shell Bar in the Hawaiian Village. His arrangements combined jazz, vibraphone, Latin percussion, and musical influences from different parts of Asia and the Pacific. And perhaps his most recognizable musical trademark? Bird calls and tropical animal sounds! 🦜 Denny's group began incorporating simulated bird and frog calls into performances, creating an imaginative sound that became a defining feature of exotica. His first Exotica album appeared in 1957, followed by Exotica Volume II in 1958. While exotica isn't the same as traditional Native Hawaiian music, it became an influential chapter in the history of how Hawaiian-themed music was marketed and enjoyed internationally. 🎵 7. The Queen Chant (E Lili U E) ⏱️ 2:49 This recording connects us to one of the most important figures in Hawaiian history: Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Queen Liliʻuokalani ruled from 1891 until the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. She was also an accomplished composer whose musical legacy includes the beloved "Aloha ʻOe." "The Queen Chant" is associated with the Hawaiian mele "Liliʻu e," a tribute to the queen. The mele is associated with words attributed to Antone Kaʻo and music associated with John Kaulia. Martin Denny's arrangement places a Hawaiian royal tribute into the distinctive instrumental language of 1950s exotica. Historical significance: This recording provides an interesting example of Hawaiian musical material being adapted for broader popular audiences. 🎵 8. Wedding Song (Ke Kali Nei Au) ⏱️ 2:47 Here's one of the most internationally recognized Hawaiian melodies! "Ke Kali Nei Au" was composed in 1926 by influential Hawaiian composer Charles E. King. The Hawaiian title is commonly translated as "Waiting for Thee." The song eventually became famous

  2. Sep 26

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 710 - Hormonal Bananas

    🌺🎙️ HAWAIIAN CONCERT GUIDE — SHOW 710 🎙️🌺 🍌 "HORMONAL BANANAS" 🍌 This week's Hawaiian Concert Guide takes a musical journey through Hawaiʻi as home, memory, place, identity, imagination — and occasionally something wonderfully unexpected. Show 710 moves from some of today's most compelling Hawaiian recording artists into classic exotica and vintage Hollywood Hawaiʻi, with plenty of musical and cultural connections along the way. 🎶 PLAYLIST 1. Kimié Miner — "Kuʻu Hawaiʻi" — 3:55 Album: Kuʻu Hawaiʻi We open with Kimié Miner and the title track from her five-song Kuʻu Hawaiʻi EP. Kimié has built a career that moves naturally between contemporary Hawaiian music, acoustic singer-songwriter material, reggae, island pop and modern production. She is also the founder of Haku Collective and has become an important advocate for Hawaiʻi-based artists and music. Her earlier work earned major Nā Hōkū Hanohano recognition, including Female Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year for "Bamboo." The title Kuʻu Hawaiʻi can be understood as "My Hawaiʻi" or, with the emotional weight carried by kuʻu, something closer to "My beloved Hawaiʻi." That makes this a particularly appropriate way to open Show 710 because much of tonight's program explores how different musicians experience, remember and interpret Hawaiʻi. 🌺 2. Kimié Miner feat. Kalaʻe — "Sippin' Somethin'" — 3:56 Album: Kuʻu Hawaiʻi We stay with Kimié's EP but shift into a lighter collaboration featuring Kalaʻe Camarillo. The track sits comfortably between island music, acoustic pop and country. That country influence is not as unusual in Hawaiian music as someone unfamiliar with the islands might think. Hawaiʻi has a long musical relationship with American country traditions through paniolo culture, steel guitar, acoustic instrumentation and vocal harmony. Kalaʻe himself comes from a musical family and is a third-generation music teacher. Earlier in his career, he performed with his brother Kamaka as the Camarillo Brothers before establishing his solo career. This track also gives us the perfect bridge into more of Kalaʻe's music later in the show. 🌴 3. Baba Tavares — "Keʻei" — 1:40 Album: Hanohano Hōnaunau Next we travel to Hawaiʻi Island with Baba Tavares. Baba Tavares is Joshua Tavares, and Hanohano Hōnaunau is an unusually place-centered project. The songs originated in connection with his play Glitter in the Paʻakai, produced through the Hawaiian Theatre program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in February 2024. Tavares describes the EP as a huakaʻi — a journey through Kona Hema and through the places that raised and nourished his family. That context matters. "Keʻei" is not simply a song borrowing the name of a picturesque Hawaiian location. The place itself is connected to genealogy, home, ʻohana and lived experience. At only 1:40, the song almost functions like a musical vignette — one brief stop on that journey through Kona Hema. Pronunciation note: Keʻei — approximately keh-EH-ee, with the ʻokina creating a distinct break between the sounds. 🌊 4. Baba Tavares — "Hanohano Hōnaunau" — 2:04 Album: Hanohano Hōnaunau The journey continues with the title track. Hanohano carries meanings associated with honor, dignity, distinction and glory, making the title an expression of respect and admiration for Hōnaunau. Hōnaunau is one of the most culturally significant areas on Hawaiʻi Island. Nearby Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau preserves an ancient Hawaiian royal center and place of refuge associated with the traditional kapu system. Baba Tavares also had an exceptional year at the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, receiving: 🏆 Most Promising Artist 🏆 Hawaiian EP of the Year — Hanohano Hōnaunau So if Baba Tavares is a new name to you, Hawaiʻi's recording community has already provided two very good reasons to remember it. One important way to hear these songs is not simply as descriptions of beautiful places. Tavares describes them as songs tied to home and ʻohana. In Hawaiian music, geography frequently functions as far more than scenery. Place can carry family history, ancestry, memory and identity. 🌺 5. Kalaʻe Camarillo — "Born Again" — 3:44 Album: Drifting On Island Time Kalaʻe Camarillo returns, this time with music from his own album Drifting On Island Time, released in August 2025. Kalaʻe's career has steadily gained recognition. His earlier album Feel at Home won Contemporary Acoustic Album of the Year, while later work including "Sands of Old Lahaina" brought additional recognition. And at the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards: 🏆 Drifting On Island Time won Contemporary Album of the Year. "Born Again" gives us a chance to hear something beyond simply the album's obvious headline tracks. Kalaʻe's music often has a very conversational quality. Rather than sounding overly produced or formal, his songs often feel like someone sitting nearby, instrument in hand, telling you a story. 🌴 6. Kalaʻe Camarillo — "Down In Makena" — 3:31 Album: Drifting On Island Time We stay with Kalaʻe and travel musically to Mākena on Maui's south shore. "Down In Makena" gives us another example of something that appears repeatedly throughout Hawaiian music: The location is not simply where the story happens. Very often, the place is part of the story itself. That idea connects the work of Kalaʻe Camarillo with Baba Tavares, Kimié Miner and generations of Hawaiian composers before them. Place names in Hawaiian music can contain stories about family, love, historical events, landscapes, people and personal memories that are invisible to someone simply looking at a map. 🌺 7. Ei Nei — "Hawaiʻi Forever" — 2:56 Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us Bonus Track Next we hear the beautiful three-part harmony of Ei Nei. Ei Nei consists of: 🎤 Dane Fujiwara 🎤 Grant Kono 🎤 ʻEkolu Chang The trio formed in 2016 and has built its sound around close vocal harmony, mele Hawaiʻi, original music and contemporary interpretations of Hawaiian songs. Their album Ei Nei, Look At Us mixes original compositions with reimagined classics. "Hawaiʻi Forever" is particularly significant because Ei Nei submitted the song for Nā Hōkū consideration in both: • Single of the Year • Song of the Year The group also had a very strong showing at the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards: 🏆 Ei Nei, Look At Us won Island Music Album of the Year. By this point in Show 710, we've already heard four distinctly different approaches to contemporary Hawaiian music: Kimié Miner Baba Tavares Kalaʻe Camarillo Ei Nei Together, they provide an interesting snapshot of what recorded Hawaiian music looks and sounds like in 2025–2026. 🇯🇵🌺 8. Ei Nei — "Yappa Sukiyanen" — 3:52 Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us Bonus Track This may be the most unexpected song in Show 710. "Yappa Sukiyanen" — やっぱ好きやねん — is closely associated with Osaka singer and television personality Takajin Yashiki. The original single was released on: 📅 September 21, 1986 That means September 2026 marks the song's 40th anniversary. The title uses Kansai/Osaka-style speech and roughly expresses: ❤️ "After all, I still love you." or ❤️ "I really do love you after all." Ei Nei performing the song creates a fascinating musical connection between Hawaiʻi and Japan. That relationship has deep historical roots through immigration, family connections, tourism, food, language and generations of cultural exchange. So although the track initially seems like an unexpected diversion, it actually fits the broader story of Hawaiʻi extraordinarily well. And because the original was released almost exactly forty years before Show 710, the timing could hardly be better. 🎋🌴 9. Martin Denny — "Japanese Farewell Song" — 2:24 Album: Exotica II Our Japanese connection provides the perfect transition into one of the most influential musicians associated with the mid-century exotica movement: Martin Denny. Exotica Volume II was released in 1958 following the extraordinary success of Denny's earlier Exotica album. The musicians associated with the project included: 🎹 Martin Denny — piano, celeste and arrangements 🥁 Arthur Lyman — vibes, marimba, xylophone and percussion 🦜 Augie Colón — percussion and the famous bird-call effects 🎸 Bernard Miller — bass 🎷 Jack Shoop — flute and saxophone 🥁 Roy Harte — drums and percussion "Japanese Farewell Song," also known as "Sayonara," appears as track three. Martin Denny's music occupies an interesting place in Hawaiian musical history. Exotica wasn't traditional Hawaiian music. Instead, it represented a mid-century American fantasy of the Pacific — blending Hawaiian, Japanese, Asian, Latin and imagined tropical elements into a stylized lounge sound. That distinction makes exotica particularly interesting today. It tells us something not only about music, but about how mainland America imagined Hawaiʻi and the broader Pacific during the 1950s. 🌴🎶 10. Martin Denny — "Singing Bamboos" — 2:10 Album: Exotica II We continue directly into track four of Exotica Volume II. "Singing Bamboos" demonstrates one of the qualities that made Martin Denny's recordings so distinctive: texture. Instead of focusing entirely on melody, the arrangement creates atmosphere through: • percussion • mallet instruments • unusual timbres • spatial effects • bird calls • carefully constructed tropical ambience That sound became closely associated with the tiki and lounge culture boom of the 1950s and early 1960s. You can almost imagine the record spinning inside a dark Polynesian-themed cocktail lounge with bamboo walls, carved tiki fi

  3. Sep 7

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 709 - Hawai'i Forever

    This week's playlist continues the progression from modern Hawaiian music through cultural tradition, classic exotica, and Hollywood's enduring Hawaiian legacy. The selections also feature several of the biggest winners and nominees from the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, making this an excellent showcase of today's Hawaiian music scene alongside historic recordings. 1. Oli Pule Artist: Baba Tavares Album: Hanohano Hōnaunau (2025) Length: 1:07 About the Artist Joshua "Baba" Tavares is one of Hawaiʻi's brightest emerging Hawaiian-language composers. His debut EP Hanohano Hōnaunau earned: 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Hawaiian EP of the Year Baba Tavares named Most Promising Artist of the Year. Song Background "Oli Pule" is not intended as entertainment. It is an oli—a traditional Hawaiian chant—and specifically a prayer chant that opens the entire EP. According to Baba Tavares, the chant: is rooted in scripture encourages listeners to be wiwoʻole (courageous) reminds us to lead with aloha asks for naʻauao (wisdom) The chant establishes the spiritual foundation before beginning the musical journey through South Kona. Musical Notes Unlike western songs: no verse/chorus format rhythmic spoken chant emphasizes pronunciation and mana (spiritual power) accompanied only lightly It immediately transports listeners into Hawaiian cultural practice. Suggested On-Air Introduction "We're opening today's program in the traditional Hawaiian way—with prayer. Baba Tavares begins his award-winning EP not with a song, but with an oli, asking for courage, wisdom, and aloha before the musical journey begins." 2. Nāpoʻopoʻo Artist: Baba Tavares Length: 2:02 Background Nāpoʻopoʻo is a historic village on the western coast of Hawaiʻi Island in South Kona. The area is famous for: Kealakekua Bay Captain James Cook Monument ancient Hawaiian settlements fishing traditions lava coastline The EP travels geographically through Baba's homeland, and "Nāpoʻopoʻo" is the first destination after the opening prayer. Musical Style Traditional Hawaiian Features: gentle acoustic accompaniment Hawaiian language lyrics relaxed storytelling strong sense of place The song feels like walking quietly along Kona's shoreline in the early morning. Interesting Fact The ipu percussion on this track is performed by Baba's mother, Kuʻuipo Tavares, making the recording a true family collaboration. 3. Kula Country Morning Artist: Kalaʻe Camarillo Album: Drifting On Island Time Length: 3:55 About the Artist Kalaʻe Camarillo born and raised in Kīhei, Maui third-generation musician music educator multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner Kanikapila Kumu at Kamehameha Schools His newest album won: 2026 Contemporary Album of the Year. About Kula Kula sits high on the slopes of Haleakalā. Known for: cool mornings farms ranches protea flowers coffee panoramic views The song paints an audio picture of waking up in Upcountry Maui. Musical Feel Country influence mixed with: Hawaiian acoustic guitar contemporary island pop relaxed vocal harmonies Rather than beach music, this celebrates Maui's agricultural heart. 4. When I Miss You Artist: Kalaʻe Camarillo Length: 3:33 Theme A heartfelt contemporary island love song. Unlike many traditional Hawaiian standards, this reflects today's local songwriting: family distance relationships longing The production blends Nashville-style country influences with Hawaiian warmth. Musical Characteristics acoustic guitars polished harmonies modern country rhythm island production It demonstrates how Hawaiian music continues to evolve while retaining its emotional sincerity. 5. Hawaiʻi Forever (Bonus Track) Artist: Ei Nei Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us Length: 2:56 Awards "Hawaiʻi Forever" received the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Single of the Year award, while the album Ei Nei, Look At Us won Album of the Year and Island Music Album of the Year. The group Ei Nei also earned Group of the Year and Favorite Entertainer of the Year honors. Song Theme This is an uplifting anthem celebrating: Hawaiian identity cultural pride unity love for the islands Although labeled as a bonus track, it became one of the year's biggest Hawaiian songs. Host Talking Point This may become one of the defining Hawaiian songs of the decade. 6. Yappa Sukiyanen (Bonus Track) Background The title is Japanese. "Yappa Sukiyanen" roughly means: "I really do love you." or "After all...I love you." The inclusion reflects Hawaiʻi's deep Japanese cultural heritage. Many local families trace ancestry to Japanese immigrants who arrived during the plantation era. The song serves as a musical bridge between Hawaiian and Japanese cultures. 7. Soshu Night Serenade Artist: Martin Denny Album: Exotica II Length: 2:11 About Martin Denny Martin Denny virtually created the Exotica genre. His music mixed: jazz Asian influences Polynesian percussion bird calls vibraphone lounge music He became synonymous with the romantic image of tropical paradise during the 1950s. About the Song "Soshu" references Japan's historic Sōshū Province. The piece evokes: moonlit evenings Japanese gardens gentle romance Its delicate orchestration contrasts nicely with the more tropical selections. 8. Island of Dreams Artist: Martin Denny Length: 2:56 Theme Classic Exotica. Rather than depicting an actual Hawaiian place, the song creates an imagined tropical paradise. Typical instrumentation includes: vibraphone bamboo percussion exotic bird sounds lush orchestration The recording captures mid-century America's fascination with the Pacific. 9. Can't Help Falling in Love Artist: Elvis Presley Album: Blue Hawaii (1961) Length: 3:01 Historical Importance Perhaps Elvis' most beloved ballad. Originally written for: Blue Hawaii (1961) The melody is adapted from the French love song: "Plaisir d'Amour." Today it remains: one of the most performed wedding songs one of Elvis' signature recordings among the most recognizable love songs ever recorded Hawaiian Connection Although not originally Hawaiian in composition, the song became permanently associated with Hawaiʻi through the movie. Millions around the world first imagined Hawaiʻi through this soundtrack. 10. Rock-A-Hula Baby Artist: Elvis Presley Length: 2:00 About the Song One of the most energetic numbers from Blue Hawaii. It combines: early rock-and-roll hula references Hollywood fun The song reflects how the early 1960s merged American pop culture with idealized images of Hawaiʻi. Fun Fact The Blue Hawaii soundtrack spent 20 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard album chart and became one of Elvis Presley's best-selling albums, helping shape global perceptions of Hawaiʻi for an entire generation.

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 709 - Hawai'i Forever

  4. Aug 23

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 708 - Island Time

    Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show 708 Island Time: From Contemporary Hawaiʻi to Timeless Traditions and Classic Sounds Featured Artists: Kalaʻe Camarillo • Ei Nei • Kaleo Phillips • Martin Denny • Elvis Presley This week on the Hawaiian Concert Guide, we take a musical journey through five distinct eras of Hawaiʻi's musical landscape. From today's contemporary island songwriting to the rich traditions of Hawaiian language music, heartfelt songs of ʻohana, the golden age of Exotica, and the unforgettable Hollywood sound of Blue Hawaii, Show 708 celebrates the many voices that have shaped—and continue to shape—the soundtrack of the Islands. Rather than simply presenting ten great songs, this episode tells a story. It begins with modern Hawaiʻi, explores the cultural foundations of the islands, pauses to celebrate family, then looks back at how Hawaiʻi and the Pacific were imagined through mid-century American popular culture before closing with two of the most iconic songs from Elvis Presley's legendary Blue Hawaii soundtrack. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Hawaiian music or discovering these artists for the first time, we hope this episode reminds you why Hawaiʻi's music continues to inspire listeners around the world. Playlist 1. Drifting On Island Time Artist: Kalaʻe Camarillo (featuring Kalaʻe) Album: Drifting On Island Time (2025) We open Show 708 with one of the newest songs in Hawaiian contemporary music. The title track from Kalaʻe Camarillo's latest album immediately sets the tone—not as a tourist slogan, but as a reminder to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and embrace the lifestyle that makes Hawaiʻi unique. The relaxed groove, modern production, and catchy melody perfectly introduce today's generation of Hawaiian musicians. Kalaʻe Camarillo, a third-generation music educator and award-winning singer-songwriter from Maui, has become one of Hawaiʻi's leading contemporary artists. His latest album features ten original songs blending island pop, acoustic influences, and heartfelt storytelling. (Maui News) Length: 3:28 2. Gonna Have A Good Time Artist: Kalaʻe Camarillo Album: Drifting On Island Time (2025) Our second selection keeps the energy flowing with an uplifting celebration of everyday life. Beneath its feel-good chorus lies a simple but meaningful message: after the work is done and the responsibilities are met, life's greatest joy comes from spending time with the people you love. The song showcases Kalaʻe's gift for writing contemporary music that feels authentically local without relying on stereotypes. It captures the optimism and gratitude that define so much of today's island music. Length: 2:58 3. Ka Wā Makahiki Artist: Ei Nei Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us Ei Nei brings us into the heart of traditional Hawaiian culture with "Ka Wā Makahiki." The Makahiki season marked an annual period of peace, harvest, celebration, and renewal dedicated to the Hawaiian god Lono. More than simply a festival, Makahiki represented an entire way of understanding the rhythm of nature and the passing of time. Beautiful vocal harmonies and traditional Hawaiian lyrics remind us that Hawaiian music is deeply connected to history, language, and the land itself. Length: 3:50 4. Star Of Gladness Artist: Ei Nei Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us The title "Star of Gladness" refers to Hōkūleʻa—the "Star of Gladness"—whose name today is inseparably connected with the legendary Hawaiian voyaging canoe and the renaissance of traditional Polynesian navigation. For ancient Polynesian navigators, stars were not simply beautiful lights in the night sky—they were maps, guides, and trusted companions across thousands of miles of open ocean. Ei Nei's rich harmonies honor this remarkable heritage while celebrating Hawaiʻi's cultural renaissance. Length: 4:28 5. My Island Life Artist: Kaleo Phillips Album: E Mama "My Island Life" shifts the focus from Hawaiian history to personal identity. Rather than describing Hawaiʻi as a vacation destination, Kaleo Phillips sings about what it truly means to grow up and live in the islands. Family, community, friendships, and everyday experiences become part of the meaning of "island life." It's an honest portrait of belonging that resonates with anyone who calls Hawaiʻi home. Length: 4:15 6. God Bless My Daddy (Acoustic) Artist: Kaleo Phillips Album: E Mama The emotional centerpiece of Show 708. This beautiful acoustic performance is a heartfelt tribute to fathers and the lasting influence parents have on our lives. Its stripped-down arrangement allows the lyrics to shine, making the song feel intimate and deeply personal. Coming immediately after "My Island Life," the song reminds us that the people who shape us are every bit as important as the places where we live. Sometimes the strongest songs aren't the loudest—they're the most sincere. Length: 3:19 7. American in Bali Artist: Martin Denny Album: Hypnotique (1959) Martin Denny helped create the Exotica genre during the late 1950s. Although not traditional Hawaiian music, his recordings became inseparable from the romantic image of Hawaiʻi and the South Pacific during the tiki era. "American in Bali" blends jazz, lounge music, tropical percussion, and Asian musical colors into a uniquely American musical fantasy of the Pacific. Recorded during the height of the Exotica movement, this selection represents an important chapter in the history of island-inspired music. Length: 2:29 8. Japanese Sandman Artist: Martin Denny Album: Hypnotique (1959) Continuing our journey through Exotica, Martin Denny reimagines the classic popular song "Japanese Sandman" with his signature atmospheric arrangements. Bird calls, vibraphones, bamboo percussion, and Asian-inspired instrumentation create a mysterious soundscape that captivated audiences during the late 1950s. While these recordings reflect American interpretations of Asian and Pacific cultures, they also became an influential part of Hawaiʻi's entertainment history and helped introduce many listeners to tropical-inspired music. Length: 1:35 9. Aloha ʻOe Artist: Elvis Presley Album: Blue Hawaii (1961) One of the most beloved songs ever associated with Hawaiʻi. Originally written by Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaiʻi's last reigning monarch, "Aloha ʻOe" has become one of the world's most recognized Hawaiian songs. Elvis' respectful performance introduced generations of moviegoers to this timeless Hawaiian farewell. The song's title means much more than simply "goodbye." It expresses love, affection, compassion, and the hope of meeting again. Its inclusion in Blue Hawaii helped make Hawaiian music part of American popular culture. Length: 1:53 10. No More Artist: Elvis Presley Album: Blue Hawaii (1961) We conclude this episode with another memorable selection from Blue Hawaii. Although many listeners assume it is a traditional Hawaiian song, "No More" is actually adapted from the famous Spanish melody "La Paloma." Its appearance in Blue Hawaii beautifully illustrates how Hawaiian popular culture has long embraced musical influences from around the world. The warm orchestration, romantic vocals, and tropical atmosphere provide a fitting conclusion to our musical journey across five eras of island music. Length: 2:23 Featured Albums Drifting On Island Time — Kalaʻe Camarillo (2025) Ei Nei, Look At Us — Ei Nei E Mama — Kaleo Phillips Hypnotique — Martin Denny (1959) Blue Hawaii (Expanded Edition) — Elvis Presley (1961) (Apple Music - Web Player) This Week's Musical Journey Show 708 follows a deliberate progression through Hawaiʻi's musical heritage: Contemporary Hawaiʻi — Modern island songwriting with Kalaʻe Camarillo Traditional Hawaiʻi — Hawaiian language, history, and cultural heritage with Ei Nei ʻOhana & Island Living — Personal stories from Kaleo Phillips The Exotica Era — Martin Denny's influential tropical soundscapes Hollywood Hawaiʻi — Elvis Presley and the enduring legacy of Blue Hawaii Together, these ten songs span more than six decades of music while demonstrating the remarkable diversity of Hawaiʻi's musical traditions. Mahalo for listening to the Hawaiian Concert Guide. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with friends who love Hawaiian music. Until next time—Aloha a hui hou!

  5. Aug 9

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 707 - Almost True

    🎙️ Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show #707 From Hawaiian Cowboys to Hollywood: The Many Faces of Hawaiʻi What makes Hawaiian music uniquely powerful? It's not just beautiful melodies—it's the story of a people, their land, their faith, and the way the world has imagined paradise. This week's playlist takes listeners on a musical journey spanning more than a century of Hawaiian history and culture. 🤠 The Real Hawaiʻi Begins with the Paniolo We open with Ei Nei's Hanohano Wale Nō Nā Cowboy (Cowboy Hula), celebrating Hawaiʻi's proud paniolo (cowboy) heritage. Many people don't realize that Hawaiian cowboys have roots stretching back to the early 1800s, when Mexican vaqueros came to teach Hawaiians how to manage the wild cattle introduced by Captain George Vancouver. The paniolo culture of Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island became one of the oldest ranching traditions in the United States—long before the American West became famous. Ei Nei reminds us that Hawaiʻi is more than palm trees and beaches. It is a land of hardworking ranchers, rich traditions, and generations of family heritage. 🚒 Celebrating Everyday Island Life Ka'a Ahi Kahului brings a playful look at everyday life on Maui. Songs like this are uniquely Hawaiian because they celebrate ordinary local experiences rather than romanticized island imagery. They remind us that authentic Hawaiian music often finds joy in community, humor, and shared memories. 🌙 Modern Hawaiian Voices Eric Lee continues the journey with Waimea Moonlight and E ʻOhana Hou. His music beautifully bridges traditional Hawaiian values with contemporary production, keeping the spirit of aloha alive for new generations. The transition from the ranch lands of Waimea to songs about ʻohana creates an emotional thread that ties place and people together. 🌺 A New Generation of Hawaiian Music Kaleo Phillips represents today's Hawaiian musicians who honor the past while embracing the future. His music blends Hawaiian language, island harmonies, and spiritual influences that remain central to many local communities. His pairing of Koto Iwi with Just a Closer Walk with Thee illustrates something distinctly Hawaiian—the way Christianity and Hawaiian musical traditions have become intertwined over nearly two centuries. Rather than replacing Hawaiian culture, many congregations embraced Hawaiian language, vocal harmony, and local musical styles, creating a worship tradition unlike anywhere else in the world. 🌴 When America Dreamed of Paradise The playlist then takes an intentional turn into Martin Denny's world of Exotica. This is an important distinction: Exotica is not Hawaiian music. Instead, it was America's mid-century fantasy of the tropics. Martin Denny combined vibraphones, jungle sounds, Asian percussion, Polynesian influences, and lush orchestration to create an imagined paradise that captivated audiences in the 1950s and 60s. His music helped inspire the Tiki movement, themed restaurants, Disney attractions, and an entire generation's perception of the South Pacific. Understanding Exotica helps us appreciate both its artistry and the difference between authentic Hawaiian culture and Hollywood's tropical imagination. 🎬 Then Came Elvis No artist introduced more people to Hawaiʻi than Elvis Presley. Blue Hawaii became one of the most influential films ever made about the islands. While it presented an idealized version of paradise rather than everyday Hawaiian life, it sparked worldwide interest in visiting Hawaiʻi and introduced millions to Hawaiian-inspired music. The transition from Martin Denny to Elvis is deliberate: one created the soundtrack of America's tropical dream, while the other brought that dream to audiences around the globe. 🌈 The Bigger Story This week's playlist isn't simply a collection of songs—it's a musical timeline. It moves from authentic Hawaiian traditions... to modern island voices... to spiritual expression... to America's fascination with paradise... and finally to Hollywood's enduring influence. Every song helps tell part of Hawaiʻi's story. 🎧 Featured Artists • Ei Nei • Eric Lee • Kaleo Phillips • Martin Denny • Elvis Presley Whether you're a lifelong fan of Hawaiian music or just beginning to explore its rich heritage, Show #707 offers a deeper appreciation for the people, history, and culture behind the music we love. 🌺 E mālama i ka mele. E mālama i ka moʻomeheu. "Preserve the music. Preserve the culture." #HawaiianConcertGuide #HawaiianMusic #Paniolo #Waimea #SlackKey #HawaiianCulture #Mele #Aloha #MartinDenny #Exotica #BlueHawaii #ElvisPresley #IslandMusic #HawaiiHistory #Podcast #HawaiianLanguage

  6. Jul 26

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 706 - Sweet Cheeks

    🌺🎙️ NOW STREAMING — Hawaiian Concert Guide Show #706 🎙️🌺 Every song has a story, and every melody carries a piece of Hawaiʻi's rich history and aloha spirit. Join Piko and Terry as they explore ten wonderful recordings that span more than a century of Hawaiian music—from classic mele and beautiful love songs to contemporary island favorites, family tributes, and even the fascinating world of Exotica. 🎧 Featured Music & Stories 🌺 Ei Nei – Ei Nei, Look At Us ❤️ Pāpālina Lahilahi "Soft Delicate Cheeks" A timeless Hawaiian love song dating back to the Hawaiian Kingdom era. Discover how Hawaiian composers used poetic imagery and hidden meanings (kaona) instead of saying "I love you" directly. Learn why this classic has become a favorite for hula dancers and has been recorded by generations of Hawaiian artists. 💧 E Kuʻu Morning Dew "My Beloved Morning Dew" Morning dew symbolizes beauty that is precious yet fleeting. We'll explore how Hawaiian composers use nature—mist, rain, flowers, and dew—to express romance, longing, and cherished memories. ──────────────────────── 🌺 Eric Lee – The Islands Are Calling 🌸 Nā Pua Lei Aloha "The Beloved Lei Flowers" One of Hawaiʻi's most treasured farewell songs, often heard at graduations, celebrations, and moments of parting. Discover how the fading flowers of a lei became a lasting symbol that aloha continues long after saying "A Hui Hou." 🏝️ Halekulani Okinawa A beautiful tribute connecting Hawaiʻi and Okinawa through the spirit of aloha. Learn why Hawaiian music and hula have become so deeply loved throughout Japan, and how the famous Halekulani name represents hospitality "befitting heaven." ──────────────────────── 🌺 Kaleo Phillips – E Mama 🌼 Pakalana The beloved Pakalana flower is famous for its incredible fragrance that actually becomes stronger after sunset. Discover why this treasured lei flower has become a symbol of enduring love, cherished memories, and Hawaiian romance. 👨‍👧 God Bless My Daddy A heartfelt modern song celebrating fathers, family, faith, and ʻohana. We'll discuss how contemporary Hawaiian songwriting continues to honor parents and family traditions while carrying forward timeless Hawaiian values. ──────────────────────── 🌺 Martin Denny – Hypnotique 🎷 St. Louis Blues Originally written by W.C. Handy in 1914, this American blues classic receives Martin Denny's signature Exotica treatment. Vibraphones, tropical percussion, bird calls, and lush arrangements helped launch America's tiki and island lounge movement of the 1950s. 🌙 We Kiss in a Shadow Originally from Rodgers & Hammerstein's The King and I, this beautiful Broadway love song is transformed into a dreamy tropical soundscape. We'll explore how Exotica introduced millions of listeners to romanticized Pacific-inspired music. ──────────────────────── 🌺 Hoʻokena – Nā Kai ʻEwalu 🤝 Mi Nei Meaning "Come Here," this gentle invitation celebrates friendship, fellowship, music, and aloha. Experience the rich vocal harmonies that made Hoʻokena one of Hawaiʻi's most respected contemporary Hawaiian groups. 🌈 Kauaʻi Beauty Our grand finale—a breathtaking musical tribute to Hawaiʻi's Garden Isle. From the majestic Nā Pali Coast and Hanalei Bay to Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, rainbows, and lush green valleys, this song captures why Kauaʻi remains one of the most beloved islands in the world. ──────────────────────── 🎙️ On this episode, we'll also discuss: 🌺 The hidden meanings (kaona) woven throughout traditional Hawaiian songs. 🌺 Why flowers, rain, mist, and mountains are central symbols in Hawaiian poetry. 🌺 The worldwide influence of Hawaiian music—from Hawaiʻi to Okinawa and beyond. 🌺 How modern artists continue to preserve Hawaiian language and culture while writing new music for today's generation. 🌺 The surprising history of Martin Denny and the Exotica movement that introduced island-inspired sounds to audiences around the globe. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Hawaiian music or just beginning your island journey, Show #706 offers an unforgettable blend of beautiful melodies, fascinating history, cultural insights, and the true spirit of aloha. 🎧 Tune in, relax, and let Hawaiʻi come alive through its music and stories. 🌴 Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show #706 "Sharing the Music • The Stories • The Aloha Spirit" #HawaiianConcertGuide #HawaiianMusic #Aloha #Hoʻokena #EricLee #EiNei #KaleoPhillips #MartinDenny #Exotica #NaPuaLeiAloha #Pakalana #Kauai #IslandMusic #Hula #Ukulele #SlackKey #Podcast #MusicHistory #MadeInHawaii #AlohaSpirit

  7. Jul 5

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 705 - Fickle Mistress

    Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show 705 Theme: "Fickle Mistress" This episode flows naturally through four movements: Identity & Heritage – Traditional Hawaiian values and community. Voyaging & Legacy – Remembering those who carried Hawaiian culture forward. Family & Renewal – Songs of love, hope, and future generations. Exotica Escape – Mid-century tropical lounge before returning home with classic Hawaiian harmony. Opening Welcome everyone to another edition of the Hawaiian Concert Guide. This week we begin in the heart of Hawaiian tradition, celebrating family, community, and the enduring spirit of aloha. Along the way we'll hear legendary voices, modern artists carrying forward the tradition, and finish with another visit to the fascinating world of Martin Denny before closing with the unmistakable harmonies of Hoʻokena. Whether you're listening from Hawaiʻi or somewhere far away where the islands are simply calling your heart home, mahalo for joining us. Song 1 Model T Artist: Ei Nei Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us Background Ei Nei is one of Hawaiʻi's respected contemporary Hawaiian vocal groups. Their recordings emphasize traditional language, acoustic instrumentation, and close vocal harmony rather than commercial production. "Model T" is an unusual title for a Hawaiian recording and immediately catches attention. Analysis The song uses the Ford Model T as metaphor rather than merely nostalgia. Like the famous automobile that continued working long after newer cars replaced it, the song celebrates endurance, reliability, and the value of things built to last. Within Hawaiian culture this becomes symbolic of: kūpuna wisdom family traditions older ways that remain useful today respect for craftsmanship Rather than chasing every modern trend, the song quietly reminds listeners that proven traditions often carry us farther than fashionable innovations. Musically: relaxed swing feel acoustic guitar upright bass warm harmony vocals understated humor The storytelling style feels very local—more "talk story" than performance. Interesting discussion point Many Hawaiian songs preserve everyday island life that might otherwise disappear. Cars, fishing boats, ranch work, neighborhood traditions—all become cultural history through music. Song 2 Pua Līlia / Pulupē Nei ʻIli I Ke Anu Artist: Ei Nei Background This medley combines two traditional Hawaiian compositions. "Pua Līlia" references the lily flower, often symbolizing beauty, affection, and cherished memories. "Pulupē Nei ʻIli I Ke Anu" literally evokes skin chilled by the cold—a poetic Hawaiian expression describing emotional longing as much as physical sensation. Analysis Together the songs explore one of Hawaiian poetry's favorite themes: Nature reflects emotion. Flowers become people. Wind becomes memory. Cold becomes loneliness. Rain becomes tears. This style reflects the Hawaiian poetic tradition known as kaona, where deeper meanings hide beneath seemingly simple descriptions of nature. Listeners familiar with Hawaiian language often hear multiple layers simultaneously. Musically the arrangement allows: graceful vocal blending flowing slack-key influenced accompaniment gentle tempo that lets the language breathe Song 3 Na Mamo O Hōkūleʻa Artist: Eric Lee Album: The Islands Are Calling Background One of the emotional highlights of today's show. The title means: "The Children (Descendants) of Hōkūleʻa." Hōkūleʻa, launched in 1975, transformed Hawaiian cultural identity by proving that Polynesians intentionally navigated the Pacific using traditional celestial navigation. Analysis The song honors: navigators teachers cultural practitioners future generations Rather than focusing only on the canoe itself, Eric Lee celebrates the people inspired by its voyages. The lyrics remind listeners that everyone who learns Hawaiian language, practices hula, paddles canoe, or studies navigation becomes part of that continuing legacy. Musically: contemporary Hawaiian arrangement uplifting chorus layered harmony strong melodic hook This is heritage music without sounding historical. It looks toward the future. Discussion point Very few cultural revival movements have succeeded as dramatically as the Hawaiian Renaissance. Hōkūleʻa became much more than a canoe. It became proof that cultural knowledge could be recovered. Song 4 He Aloha No Kaʻililauokekoa Artist: Eric Lee Background This composition is a tribute song. The title translates approximately as: "Love for Kaʻililauokekoa." Many Hawaiian songs preserve individuals through musical remembrance. Analysis Traditional Hawaiian memorial songs are rarely mournful. Instead they celebrate: character generosity family contribution continuing spiritual presence Love never truly disappears. It simply changes form. Eric Lee's vocal delivery is especially sincere here, avoiding theatrical emotion in favor of heartfelt storytelling. The arrangement leaves space for the lyrics to remain central. Song 5 Brighter Life Artist: Kaleo Phillips Album: E Mama Background Kaleo Phillips represents a younger generation of Hawaiian musicians who comfortably blend island contemporary music with traditional values. Analysis This optimistic composition centers on hope rather than nostalgia. Themes include: gratitude resilience moving forward family support personal growth Rather than ignoring life's hardships, the song suggests that aloha provides strength to overcome them. The production feels modern without abandoning Hawaiian identity. Expect: polished vocals contemporary rhythm accessible melody This is exactly the type of music helping Hawaiian artists reach younger audiences. Song 6 Noe Ke Alaula Artist: Kaleo Phillips Background The title references the red glow of dawn. Morning imagery appears frequently throughout Hawaiian mele. Analysis Sunrise represents: renewal forgiveness beginning again spiritual awakening The composition encourages listeners to embrace each new day with gratitude. The melodic phrasing mirrors the slow appearance of first light over the islands. Instrumentally: relaxed guitar tasteful percussion spacious arrangement It provides a peaceful transition before today's Exotica segment. Exotica Segment Introduction Now we step into another musical universe. During the late 1950s and early 1960s America became fascinated with an imagined South Pacific. The result became known as Exotica. Although not authentically Hawaiian, this music introduced millions to tropical sounds and inspired later interest in genuine Hawaiian music. No artist defined the genre more than Martin Denny. Song 7 Chinese Lullaby Artist: Martin Denny Album: Hypnotique Background Martin Denny frequently blended Asian influences with Polynesian instrumentation. Analysis This recording creates atmosphere more than narrative. Features include: vibraphone marimba bamboo percussion bird calls spacious orchestration Rather than attempting authenticity, Denny paints an idealized dreamscape. Today listeners appreciate Exotica both as historical pop culture and as remarkable studio craftsmanship. Song 8 Hypnotique Artist: Martin Denny Background The title track perfectly demonstrates why Martin Denny became synonymous with Exotica. Analysis Everything is carefully layered. shimmering vibraphone Latin percussion jazz harmony tropical ambience The music intentionally slows the listener's pulse. It isn't dance music. It isn't jazz. It isn't Hawaiian. It's its own unique genre. Many modern lounge and ambient artists continue drawing inspiration from recordings like this. Return to Hawaiian Music After our excursion into imagined tropical paradise, we return to the authentic voices of Hawaiʻi. Few groups have influenced modern Hawaiian harmony as profoundly as Hoʻokena. Song 9 ʻUlili E Artist: Hoʻokena Album: Na Kai ʻEwalu Background Hoʻokena helped define contemporary Hawaiian vocal harmony during the late twentieth century. Their singing balances technical excellence with deep cultural respect. Analysis The title references the ʻulili, the wandering tattler shorebird found throughout Hawaiʻi. Birds often symbolize: travelers messengers freedom migration Like many traditional mele, the bird becomes a poetic stand-in for human experience. Hoʻokena's trademark harmony creates extraordinary warmth throughout the performance. Song 10 Roselani Blossoms Artist: Hoʻokena Background One of Hawaiʻi's beloved standards. The roselani rose has long symbolized affection and cherished memories. Analysis Although the melody feels simple, the emotional depth comes through nuanced harmony and expressive phrasing. The song celebrates: enduring love island beauty treasured relationships Hoʻokena's arrangement demonstrates why they remain among the finest Hawaiian vocal ensembles. Every harmony line serves the melody rather than overpowering it. It makes for a graceful conclusion to today's musical journey. Closing Remarks What a wonderful musical voyage today—from the enduring wisdom symbolized by an old Model T, through the cultural legacy of Hōkūleʻa, into songs of family, remembrance, and hope, then across the dreamy soundscapes of Martin Denny's Exotica before returning home with the timeless harmonies of Hoʻokena. These recordings remind us that Hawaiian music is far more than a style. It is a living tradition that preserves language, history, genealogy, and aloha for future generations. Mahalo for joining me for another edition of the Hawaiian Concert Guide. Until next time, mālama pono, cherish the music, support the artists, and keep Hawaiian music playing wherever you are in the world. A hui hou!

  8. Jun 24

    Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 704 - Moloka'i Sweet Home

    Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show 704 Molokaʻi Sweet Home Music of Home, Heritage, Harmony... and a Journey into Exotica This episode of the Hawaiian Concert Guide celebrates one of the most enduring themes in Hawaiian music: love of home ('āina). From the quiet beauty of Molokaʻi to timeless Hawaiian standards, from contemporary voices carrying on the tradition to the fascinating world of mid-century Exotica, Show 704 takes listeners on a musical journey that explores how Hawaiʻi has inspired both those who call it home and those who dreamed of its distant shores. Our featured artists include Ei Nei, Eric Lee, Kaleo Phillips, Martin Denny, and Hoʻokena, creating a program that blends authentic Hawaiian music with historical musical perspectives. Opening Welcome everyone to another edition of the Hawaiian Concert Guide! I'm Piko, and this episode is titled "Molokaʻi Sweet Home." Tonight we're celebrating music rooted deeply in the Hawaiian Islands—songs about home, family, culture, and identity. Along the way we'll step briefly into the fascinating world of Exotica with Martin Denny before returning home again through the beautiful harmonies of Hoʻokena. So let's begin our journey... Ei Nei Molokaʻi Sweet Home Album: Ei Nei, Look At Us The show opens with a heartfelt tribute to one of Hawaiʻi's most beloved islands. Molokaʻi has long been known as the "Friendly Isle," famous for preserving traditional Hawaiian lifestyles and remaining largely untouched by mass tourism. Unlike Waikīkī or Maui's resort communities, Molokaʻi represents old Hawaiʻi—a place where family, fishing, ranching, and community remain central to everyday life. Musically, Ei Nei creates an intimate atmosphere using: rich vocal harmonies acoustic guitars gentle island rhythm restrained production Rather than emphasizing technical virtuosity, the performance allows the lyrics and harmonies to communicate warmth and belonging. The song immediately establishes the central theme of tonight's program: Home isn't simply where you live—it becomes part of who you are. Hiʻilawe (feat. Mālie Lyman) Next comes one of Hawaiian music's enduring classics. "Hiʻilawe" was written by the legendary Samuel Kalāinaina and celebrates the famous Hiʻilawe Falls in Waipiʻo Valley on Hawaiʻi Island. Over the decades it has become one of the most frequently recorded songs in Hawaiian music, interpreted by everyone from Gabby Pahinui to contemporary artists. Ei Nei's version is notable because it avoids trying to reinvent the classic. Instead they focus on: clean vocal blend tasteful acoustic accompaniment respect for traditional melody The addition of Mālie Lyman adds another vocal texture while maintaining the song's traditional character. This performance serves as a reminder that Hawaiian standards continue living through each new generation of musicians. Eric Lee E Ola No Kākou Album: The Islands Are Calling Eric Lee has become one of Hawaiian music's most respected singer-songwriters. "E Ola No Kākou" translates roughly as: "May We All Live" or "Life for All of Us." Rather than focusing on one island or one family, this song expands the show's perspective toward the entire Hawaiian community. Musically we hear: polished contemporary production strong lead vocals layered harmony modern acoustic instrumentation The arrangement remains distinctly Hawaiian while incorporating production values that make it accessible to worldwide audiences. Its message is optimistic, inclusive, and deeply rooted in aloha. Ke ʻAno O Ka Hawaiʻi The title translates as: "The Nature of Hawaiʻi" or "The Character of Hawaiʻi." Although shorter than many songs in today's playlist, it delivers an important cultural statement. Rather than describing scenic beauty alone, the lyrics explore the qualities that define Hawaiian identity: aloha respect tradition community connection to the land Musically it's concise and melodic, functioning almost like a musical reflection between larger works. Kaleo Phillips Ka Lamakū Album: E Mama "Lamakū" literally means torch or beacon. Within Hawaiian symbolism it often represents: guidance knowledge leadership passing wisdom from one generation to another Kaleo Phillips delivers the song with emotional restraint rather than theatrical intensity. His warm vocal style blends naturally with contemporary Hawaiian acoustic arrangements while remaining firmly grounded in traditional musical values. It's another reminder that Hawaiian music often teaches as much as it entertains. Kuʻulei Awapuhi / Magic Island This medley beautifully combines two very different images. The first half celebrates ʻawapuhi, the fragrant wild ginger flower often associated with affection and beauty. The second half shifts geographically to Magic Island, the man-made peninsula adjoining Ala Moana Beach Park on Oʻahu. The transition works surprisingly well because both songs celebrate cherished places through personal memories. Arrangement highlights include: smooth transitions tasteful steel guitar textures flowing rhythmic accompaniment strong ensemble vocals The medley creates a feeling of taking a leisurely drive through the islands, connecting people with places they love. Exotica Segment Tonight's Exotica segment offers an interesting contrast. Where Hawaiian musicians perform music from within the culture, Exotica was largely created by American composers imagining distant tropical paradise. Although not authentically Hawaiian, Exotica became enormously influential during the 1950s and helped introduce millions of listeners to sounds inspired by Polynesia and the South Pacific. Martin Denny On a Little Street in Singapore Album: Hypnotique Martin Denny became known as the father of Exotica. This piece isn't Hawaiian at all—instead it evokes Southeast Asia through a mixture of: vibraphone unusual percussion lounge rhythms atmospheric orchestration Denny's genius wasn't documentary realism. Instead he created musical travel postcards, inviting listeners to imagine distant exotic locations. The recording captures the optimism and fascination with world travel that characterized post-war America. Voodoo Dreams One of the darker tracks in Denny's catalog. Rather than emphasizing melody, this piece builds atmosphere through: tribal percussion dramatic orchestration mysterious harmonies rhythmic tension It's cinematic rather than traditional. Within today's episode, it serves as a fascinating historical contrast before we return to authentic Hawaiian voices. Hoʻokena He Hawaiʻi Au Album: Nā Kai ʻEwalu Few vocal groups have represented modern traditional Hawaiian music more beautifully than Hoʻokena. "He Hawaiʻi Au" simply means: "I Am Hawaiian." This is perhaps the strongest statement of identity in today's playlist. Immediately listeners notice: rich four-part harmonies effortless vocal blend beautiful dynamic control traditional Hawaiian phrasing After the Exotica segment, this recording feels like returning home. The contrast is intentional. Instead of someone imagining Hawaiʻi, we hear Hawaiians singing about themselves. Ka Puʻulena We conclude tonight with another treasured Hawaiian classic. "Ka Puʻulena" has been performed by generations of Hawaiian musicians and remains one of the repertoire's most beloved mele. Hoʻokena's arrangement showcases everything that makes the group exceptional: impeccable harmony emotional sincerity traditional interpretation outstanding ensemble balance Rather than adding unnecessary embellishment, they allow the song's natural beauty to shine. It is a fitting conclusion to an episode centered on home, identity, and cultural continuity. Closing Thoughts Tonight's playlist followed a musical arc that began on Molokaʻi, traveled through contemporary Hawaiian songwriting, paused briefly in the imagined tropical landscapes of Martin Denny's Exotica, and ultimately returned home through the timeless harmonies of Hoʻokena. The contrast reminds us that Hawaiʻi has inspired musicians around the world for generations—but there remains something uniquely powerful about hearing these stories told by those whose roots run deep in the islands. Whether you're listening from Hawaiʻi or halfway around the globe, we hope tonight's music has brought a little aloha into your home. Mahalo for joining us on Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 704. Until next time, mālama pono, and aloha!

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About

A weekly podcast featuring Hawaiian artists and halau performing off-island and around the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Piko
  • Years Active
    2010 - 2026
  • Episodes
    702
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © 2005-2026, Hawaiian Concert Guide. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Hawaiian Concert Guide