Bill Kaiwa
Bill Kaiwa’s connection to Hawaiian music and culture comes from the isolated Kaua`i ranch of Kipu Kai. It was here that he lived as a paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy, learning many traditional songs, some of which have never been recorded. Outside of the ranch, Bill has shared his music by entertaining around the world and has recorded over eighteen albums.
Join Jessica Dofflemyer in this Talk Story from the heart of Kaua`i as Bill Kaiwa shares stories of his days at Kipu Kai as well as old Hawaiian songs and legends.
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Nathan Liberato Kahikolu Kahapea Kalama
Nathan Liberato Kahikolu Kahapea Kalama grew up in a home where expression of his Hawaiian culture was forbidden. His yearnings to learn about all aspects of Hawaiiana led him to his mentor, Nona Beamer, who fostered his talents in music and hula. Today, he is the composer of over 150 songs and chants and one of the founders of the Kaua`i Mokihana Festival which has celebrated Hawaiian music and hula for over 20 years. |
Lady Ipo & Nahoaloha
Lady Ipo Kahaunaele was born and raised on Kaua`i, with connections to three parts of the island: Nawiliwili, Kalihiwai and Anahola,. Growing up in a musical family, she was surrounded by music and took to the stage naturally. Singing and playing ukulele, Lady Ipo began entertaining on tours along the Wailua River, eventually taking Polynesian shows to Japan. Not only is Lady Ipo a world traveled entertainer, she has also been recognized as a composer in Kauai’s Mokihana Festival for a song recorded for her mother entitled “Nothing But the Best for Mama.” Her projects have included recording a CD with her daughter, Kainani Kahaunaele, as a part of the Punana Leo o Hawai`i project and a CD with Kalani Flores. In this Talk Story, Lady Ipo is joined by the band, Nahoaloha, featuring Irene Puanani Higa, Kalani Flores and Garret Kamealoha Santos. |
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Makana
At the age of 26, Makana is considered one of the greatest living players of slack key guitar.
Having studied under slack key master Sonny Chillingworth, Makana utilizes
his training and the freedom of open tuning to create music that spans
genres.
He has released three albums, toured the world and opened for musicians
such as Sting and Santana.
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Kainani Kahaunaele
Kainani Kahaunaele comes
from the village of Anahola on Kaua`i. Raised by her grandparents and
rooted in Hawaiian tradition, Kainani is a fluent speaker and educator
of the Hawaiian language.
Her 2004 CD release, Na`u `Oe was recognized at the Na
Hoku Hanohano awards, where she was named Female Vocalist, Promising New
Artist and Hawaiian Performance of the Year. |
Sean Na'auao
The music of Sean Na`auao blends traditional Hawaiian music with reggae, island and contemporary
sounds.
Formerly of The Manao Company, Sean has gone on to record 6 solo albums
and has been recognized at the Na Hoku Hanohano awards for Song of the
Year, Best Island Contemporary Album, Best Reggae Album and Best Haku
Mele. |
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George Kahumoku
George Kahumoku, Jr. has been called Hawai’i’s Renaissnace man, in recognition of the many hats he wears. He is a Hoku Award Winning slack key guitarist, songwriter, world-wide performer, high school teacher and farmer. His connection with the land has garnered several state and national awards and is deeply reflected in his music. George has released numerous albums, and received several Na Hoku Honohono Awards, the Hawaiian equivalent to the Grammies.
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Palani Vaughan
Palani Vaughan first made his musical mark with the album, Meet Palani Vaughan and the Sunday Manoa. Rooted in a musically talented family, his education at Kamehameha Schools from kindergarten to graduation, further encouraged his love for Hawaiian music and culture. Palani’s solo recordings have gone on to be recognized, repeatedly, at the Na Hoku Hanohano awards, one year, receiving 8 nominations. In this Talk Story, Palani shares his personal history as well his music, paying homage to the Hawaiian monarchy, he is so renowned for honoring. |
Cindy Combs
“Slack Key Lady", Cindy Combs' musical style has been influenced by
the folk music of the late sixties as well as slack key lessons
with Keola Beamer. Her introduction to George Winston culminated
into “Slack Key Lady”, a Dancing Cat Record that has brought Cindy’s
music to an even broader audience. Her song, “I Love Kaua’i” was
featured on Jerry Santos’ solo album, Expecting Friends, which was
awarded the Na Hoku Hanohano Award in 1990 for Album of the Year.
In this Talk Story session, Cindy shares her unique
sound and eclectic blend of original songs. |
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