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Hawaiian traditional

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Category: Genre

Summary

Hawaiian traditional music encompasses mele, chant, hula-related song and historically developed accompanied repertories rooted in Hawaiian language and cultural life. It is a broad practice family rather than one instrumental sound. A composition may name a place, honour a person, preserve genealogy or speak through layered imagery. Meaning depends on words, delivery and context as much as a memorable melody. Hula and music are closely related arts, while chant also has settings beyond dance. The category should introduce Hawaiian creators and knowledge rather than promise anonymous island atmosphere. [1]

Contemporary and trending

Practitioners continue to compose, teach, perform and study historical resources. Hālau, families, language-centred programmes and public events connect musical skills with wider cultural knowledge. Archives can reconnect singers and dancers with earlier voices, as Bishop Museum’s mele work demonstrates, but a recording does not replace the authority of teachers and communities. Modern accompanied song also renews inherited repertoire. Tourist performance is one setting among many. Its visibility should not conceal ceremonies, family occasions, contemporary Hawaiian-language creation or the ordinary work of learning words and meanings. [2]

History

Pre-contact Hawaiian poetic and chanted traditions developed within particular social, political and sacred relationships. Nineteenth-century encounters brought hymnody, guitars and other instruments into a changing kingdom. Hawaiian composers transformed these resources into their own musical languages. The royal family’s compositions and later recording histories became major parts of the repertoire. Colonisation, restrictions on language and cultural practice, tourism and cultural resurgence all affected public presentation. The continuity is therefore neither an untouched ancient sound nor a simple replacement by imported harmony. Hawaiian agency and adaptation are fundamental throughout.

Musical characteristics

Oli can foreground the voice’s sustained tone, breath, pitch movement and poetic delivery without instruments. Hula-related chant may involve percussion and detailed relationships between text and movement. Accompanied mele can use guitar, ʻukulele, bass, steel guitar and vocal harmony in varying combinations. The distinction between hula kahiko and hula ʻauana helps orientation but does not date every newly composed work automatically. Kaona, layered or concealed meaning, rewards attention beyond literal translation. Listen to pronunciation, the placement of a place-name and the way instrumental phrases answer the voice.

Geography and communities

The inhabited Hawaiian island chain forms one connected musical landscape, with strong local differences and inter-island movement. Oʻahu’s media and performance visibility does not make Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Kauaʻi or smaller communities peripheral to the tradition. A broad chain-centred field avoids reducing the music to resort or city locations. A lighter Californian diaspora field acknowledges sustained teaching and family connections beyond the islands. These gradients indicate cultural practice and attachment, not ownership of particular chants, and do not imply every resident shares the same repertoire or cultural responsibilities.

Artists

Queen Liliʻuokalani and other royal composers offer gateways into nineteenth-century song, while Mary Kawena Pukui’s knowledge and documentation illuminate language and tradition. Kumu hula, chanters and community ensembles carry essential authority alongside commercial recording artists. Edith Kanakaʻole and the Kanakaʻole family provide another significant lineage of teaching and performance. Later interpreters such as Gabby Pahinui and the Brothers Cazimero connect inherited songs with distinctive modern arrangements. Choose publicly shared performances and follow the credits and meanings supplied by their makers. A celebrated singer’s full repertoire is not automatically traditional chant.

Representative performances

These recordings offer listening examples of the genre. Notes identify the performance setting and any adaptation or mixed repertoire.

MuGlobe listening profile
Repertoire Field use Notes
traditional regional Comprehensive catalogue; recent discovery is prioritized and worthwhile older music remains playable. Preserve specific recording contexts and dates.
MuGlobe representative performances
Artist Performance / song / title Embedded player URL Notes Repertoire kind Repertoire date Recording date Format Opening Places Fit Evidence Review note MuGlobe favorite Current hit Authentic
John Cruz, Peter Moon and Greg Sardinha Hiʻilawe — Live Outside https://www.youtube.com/embed/0YCAHeB4X1U Playing For Change credits the three musicians performing this Hawaiian song beside the Honolulu shoreline. The contemporary interpretation introduces a traditional repertoire item rather than treating all Hawaiian music as a single instrumental style.[3] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown pending Existing recording Legacy unscoped accepted recording retained; migration does not assert new dates or per-country variants. Existing musical notes and native citations are preserved. false false false
Gabby Pahinui Hiʻilawe https://www.youtube.com/embed/wJu3JUrgnZY Archival audio shared by an independent uploader. Pahinui's interpretation offers an earlier-generation reference for Hawaiian singing and guitar accompaniment; this is a commercial recording, not a claim to document an unchanged precontact tradition.[4] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown pending Existing recording Legacy unscoped accepted recording retained; migration does not assert new dates or per-country variants. Existing musical notes and native citations are preserved. false false false
Kamalei Kawaʻa, Kainani Kahaunaele, Faith Kealohapauʻole Paredes (hula) Kamalei Kawa'a - Hānaulā (Official Music Video) feat. Kainani Kahaunaele & Miss Aloha Hula 2026 https://www.youtube.com/embed/5nsQ9rWtI4k Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kamalei Kawa'a Music. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2026-10-09; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[5] traditional unknown unknown music-video unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kamalei Kawa'a Music. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Makana Arce Makana Arce - "Pili Kapekepeke" https://www.youtube.com/embed/WdCHEn78mzU Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2025-08-16. Video publication: 2025-08-26; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[6] traditional unknown 2025-08-16 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2025-08-16. false false false
ʻUheʻuhene (ʻĀina Asing, Lina Robins-Tamure, Kapua Kalua), Aunty Hulali (hula) 'Uhe'uhene - "Lei Nani" with Hula https://www.youtube.com/embed/0ApkflgZte4 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2025-03-09. Video publication: 2025-03-16; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[7] traditional unknown 2025-03-09 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2025-03-09. false false false
Mākaha Sons (Louis Moon Kauakahi, Jerome Boogie Koko, John Koko) Mākaha Sons | Full Episode | Nā Mele https://www.youtube.com/embed/w4teU4GvvA4 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Vintage PBS performance, original broadcast3April2004;2024 republication does not imply a current performance with late John Koko. Video publication: 2024-10-22; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[8] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Vintage PBS performance, original broadcast3April2004;2024 republication does not imply a current performance with late John Koko. false false false
Nā Palapalai Na Palapalai - Ke Anu O Waimea | NĀ MELE https://www.youtube.com/embed/8jorwpQdFds Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2024-08-09; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[9] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Waipuna Waipuna – Aloha E Kohala | NĀ MELE | PBS HAWAIʻI https://www.youtube.com/embed/NS74fxJC3SU Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2024-02-09; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[10] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Aloha Pua Melia (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/jA3c21AEB24 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-10-22; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[11] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Nani Wai`ale (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/3OWj1ILH3mw Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-10-18; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[12] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Kaunolū | PBS HAWAIʻI https://www.youtube.com/embed/HJ00vaU2csg Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-09-15; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[13] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Aia I Niʻihau Kuʻ Pāwehe | NĀ MELE | PBS HAWAIʻI https://www.youtube.com/embed/11rgcbZWWZE Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-09-15; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[14] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Palisa | PBS HAWAIʻI https://www.youtube.com/embed/RdZPZOeX5I8 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-09-15; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[15] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres Kahele - Pīkake Madagaseka | PBS HAWAIʻI https://www.youtube.com/embed/wVI9vxJePCo Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2021-09-15; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[16] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: PBS Hawaiʻi. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keali'i Reichel Keali'i Reichel - Millennium Stage (September 10, 2019) https://www.youtube.com/embed/mJFZZemiPQ8 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: The Kennedy Center. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019-09-10. Video publication: 2019-09-10; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[17] traditional unknown 2019-09-10 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: The Kennedy Center. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019-09-10. false false false
Shawn Pimental, Lehua Kalima Shawn Pimental & Lehua Kalima - Ka Makani Ka'ili Aloha https://www.youtube.com/embed/j058FrO6k9w Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: GT Wilson. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2019-07-10; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[18] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: GT Wilson. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Na Hoa Na Hoa - Mauna Kahalawai https://www.youtube.com/embed/knzhO3IzcQY Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Daryl Fujiwara. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019. Video publication: 2019-06-16; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[19] traditional unknown 2019 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Daryl Fujiwara. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019. false false false
Na Hoa Na Hoa - Maui Nui Medley https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Vhkyzc2VaM Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Daryl Fujiwara. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019. Video publication: 2019-06-16; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[20] traditional unknown 2019 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Daryl Fujiwara. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019. false false false
Nā Hoa (Halehaku Seabury-Akaka, Ikaika Blackburn, Keoni Souza) Nā Hoa - "Leo Kamaʻāina" with Hula https://www.youtube.com/embed/HcjVVYttai0 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019-02-20. Video publication: 2019-02-22; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[21] traditional unknown 2019-02-20 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2019-02-20. false false false
Josh Tatofi, Travis Kaka, Laupepa Letuli Josh Tatofi - Henehene Kou Aka (HI Sessions Live Music Video) https://www.youtube.com/embed/ek8qYTzYmE4 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Actual Tatofi trio on Hawaiian repertoire; not blanket inclusion of every Tatofi pop song. Video publication: 2018-06-08; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[22] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Actual Tatofi trio on Hawaiian repertoire; not blanket inclusion of every Tatofi pop song. false false false
Weldon Kekauoha, Jack Ofoia, Alika Boy Kalalui IV, Kapua Dalire-Moe and Kili (hula) Hawaiian Music Hula: Weldon Kekauoha "Queenʻs Jubilee" https://www.youtube.com/embed/AbqkjkkcE7M Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Coco Palm Pictures. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2018-05-02; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[23] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Coco Palm Pictures. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keauhou (Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, Jonah Kahanuola Solatorio, Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum) Keauhou - Ka`u Nui (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/NfYg62jclXk Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-09-27; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[24] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keauhou (Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, Jonah Kahanuola Solatorio, Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum) Keauhou - Mapuana (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/z4zQKivyw7M Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-09-25; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[25] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keauhou (Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, Jonah Kahanuola Solatorio, Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum) Keauhou - Hanohano Haiku (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/DVAB6rTE1Bw Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-09-22; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[26] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keauhou (Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, Jonah Kahanuola Solatorio, Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum) Keauhou - Aloha Maunalua (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/0zmPd8AncxM Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-09-20; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[27] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Keauhou (Zachary Alakaʻi Lum, Jonah Kahanuola Solatorio, Nicholas Kealiʻi Lum) Keauhou - Kahiko Kapalama (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/4N5_2-rKbLY Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-09-19; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[28] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Na Hoa Na Hoa - Nani Helena (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/-eE13E_Wv3k Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-02-16; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[29] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Na Hoa Na Hoa - Sweet Lei Lehua (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/k0uOAUHtk5s Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2017-02-10; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[30] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Raiatea Helm Raiatea Helm - Ke Kani Hone O Na Manu (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/3AhJaLTFOgs Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2016-10-29; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[31] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Unidentified Hawaiian chanter Hawaiian Oli ( Chant ) - Opening Ceremony for Moiliili Hongwanji Bon Odori Summer Fest 2015 https://www.youtube.com/embed/lvJ4vV846ik Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: White River Buddhist Temple. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2015-07-07; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[32] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: White River Buddhist Temple. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele KUANA TORRES KAHELE Kaeo Hula https://www.youtube.com/embed/gq9f1ZNORdQ Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Na Palapalai. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2015-06-25; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[33] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Na Palapalai. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Waipuna Waipuna - E Mau Ke Aloha (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/u_Il5rOc6is Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Waipuna actual trio Matthew Sproat/Kale Hannahs/David Kamakahi; Dennis Kamakahi is tribute subject, not current guest. Video publication: 2015-06-17; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[34] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Waipuna actual trio Matthew Sproat/Kale Hannahs/David Kamakahi; Dennis Kamakahi is tribute subject, not current guest. false false false
Hoʻokena Ho`okena - Moani Ke Ala (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ov1OoHT7YR8 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2014-09-05; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[35] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Nā Hoa (Halehaku Seabury-Akaka, Ikaika Blackburn, Keoni Souza) Na Hoa - "Lei Puakenikeni" with Hula by Mahina Souza https://www.youtube.com/embed/xoXqi-u_A9w Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2014-04-05. Distinct2014 performance from earlier2012 Na Hoa Lei Pua Kenikeni recording; source explicitly identifies date/venue. Video publication: 2014-04-09; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[36] traditional unknown 2014-04-05 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2014-04-05. Distinct2014 performance from earlier2012 Na Hoa Lei Pua Kenikeni recording; source explicitly identifies date/venue. false false false
Danny Carvalho Danny Carvalho - Ku'ulei Ku'uipo (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/mhwHMTgeNJE Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2014-03-28; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[37] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Nā Hoa (Halehaku Seabury-Akaka, Ikaika Blackburn, Keoni Souza) Na Hoa - Waikiki Hula Medley https://www.youtube.com/embed/nxegHhg_nX0 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2014-02-22. Video publication: 2014-02-25; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[38] traditional unknown 2014-02-22 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2014-02-22. false false false
Nā Hoa (Halehaku Seabury-Akaka, Ikaika Blackburn, Keoni Souza) Hawaiian Airlines' Pau Hana Fridays - Na Hoa: Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai https://www.youtube.com/embed/eAwr1n8Wjiw Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Hawaiian Airlines. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2013-09-12; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[39] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Hawaiian Airlines. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Nā Hoa (Halehaku Seabury-Akaka, Ikaika Blackburn, Keoni Souza) Nā Hoa - "Kāneʻohe"/"Kaloaloa,"/"Ho'okipa Paka" https://www.youtube.com/embed/wvcp-8A1ucI Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2013-08-17. Video publication: 2013-08-18; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[40] traditional unknown 2013-08-17 unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Jody Y. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Documented performance/session: 2013-08-17. false false false
Kū Mauna chanters (individual names unspecified) Oli Kū Mauna https://www.youtube.com/embed/3ZYYQKbS-vs Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: KSCharacterEd. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Actual oli kāhea/oli komo performance, individual chanters not named by source; no invented attribution. Video publication: 2013-08-14; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[41] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: KSCharacterEd. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Actual oli kāhea/oli komo performance, individual chanters not named by source; no invented attribution. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele KUANA TORRES KAHELE Beauty A'o Moloka'i https://www.youtube.com/embed/QwH0MObGPhE Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Na Palapalai. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2013-07-10; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[42] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Na Palapalai. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Weldon Kekauoha Weldon Kekauoha - Lei Ho'oheno (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/Px25YB0gGrc Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2013-05-24; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[43] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Jonathan Lopez Aloha Oli (Chant) at Malama-Ki https://www.youtube.com/embed/sRHjPNDUYaw Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kalani. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Jonathan Lopez performs Nona Kapuailohia Beamer chant; composer is not current performer. Video publication: 2013-02-19; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[44] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kalani. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Jonathan Lopez performs Nona Kapuailohia Beamer chant; composer is not current performer. false false false
Na Hoa Na Hoa - Lei Pua Kenikeni https://www.youtube.com/embed/v6vbMHKPln8 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kanai’a Design. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2012-01-31; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[45] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: Kanai’a Design. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kuana Torres Kahele Kuana Torres - Na Vaqueros (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!) https://www.youtube.com/embed/yBAZqIRoWL0 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2011-12-13; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[46] traditional unknown unknown live unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: HI*Sessions. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false
Kumu Maile Yamanaka Kumu Maile Yamanaka chants at Kope Kope https://www.youtube.com/embed/_aHMTw1Oie0 Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: mobeyprod. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. Video publication: 2010-01-07; original-release and performance dates are separate. Advancing embedded playback checked 19 October 2026.[47] traditional unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown supported Recording/context source Reviewed Hawaiian traditional musical recording. Source: mobeyprod. Video publication is separate from unknown original/session dates. false false false

Related genres

Slack-key guitar belongs to the larger Hawaiian world but has its own tunings, instrumental techniques and histories. Steel guitar is a distinct technique and instrumental lineage, despite frequent collaboration. Hawaiian hymnody, falsetto singing and contemporary popular forms overlap selectively with this broad category. Other Pacific peoples maintain their own song and dance traditions; a shared oceanic context is not a licence to label them all Hawaiian. The catalogue entry provides a family-level starting point, while particular mele, styles and community histories supply the detail that the umbrella cannot.

References and further reading

  1. ↑ Hawaiian Chorus and Hula/Chant, University of Hawaii.
  2. ↑ A Hilo Wau E Hoʻolulu Ka Lehua — Bishop Museum.
  3. ↑ John Cruz, Peter Moon and Greg Sardinha — Hiʻilawe — Live Outside. YouTube recording; metadata checked 2026-10-18. Context: supporting source.
  4. ↑ Gabby Pahinui — Hiʻilawe. YouTube recording; metadata checked 2026-10-18.
  5. ↑ Kamalei Kawa'a - Hānaulā (Official Music Video) feat. Kainani Kahaunaele & Miss Aloha Hula 2026.
  6. ↑ Makana Arce - "Pili Kapekepeke".
  7. ↑ 'Uhe'uhene - "Lei Nani" with Hula.
  8. ↑ Mākaha Sons | Full Episode | Nā Mele.
  9. ↑ Na Palapalai - Ke Anu O Waimea | NĀ MELE.
  10. ↑ Waipuna – Aloha E Kohala | NĀ MELE | PBS HAWAIʻI.
  11. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Aloha Pua Melia (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  12. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Nani Wai`ale (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  13. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Kaunolū | PBS HAWAIʻI.
  14. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Aia I Niʻihau Kuʻ Pāwehe | NĀ MELE | PBS HAWAIʻI.
  15. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Palisa | PBS HAWAIʻI.
  16. ↑ Kuana Torres Kahele - Pīkake Madagaseka | PBS HAWAIʻI.
  17. ↑ Keali'i Reichel - Millennium Stage (September 10, 2019).
  18. ↑ Shawn Pimental & Lehua Kalima - Ka Makani Ka'ili Aloha.
  19. ↑ Na Hoa - Mauna Kahalawai.
  20. ↑ Na Hoa - Maui Nui Medley.
  21. ↑ Nā Hoa - "Leo Kamaʻāina" with Hula.
  22. ↑ Josh Tatofi - Henehene Kou Aka (HI Sessions Live Music Video).
  23. ↑ Hawaiian Music Hula: Weldon Kekauoha "Queenʻs Jubilee".
  24. ↑ Keauhou - Ka`u Nui (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  25. ↑ Keauhou - Mapuana (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  26. ↑ Keauhou - Hanohano Haiku (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  27. ↑ Keauhou - Aloha Maunalua (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  28. ↑ Keauhou - Kahiko Kapalama (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  29. ↑ Na Hoa - Nani Helena (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  30. ↑ Na Hoa - Sweet Lei Lehua (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  31. ↑ Raiatea Helm - Ke Kani Hone O Na Manu (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  32. ↑ Hawaiian Oli ( Chant ) - Opening Ceremony for Moiliili Hongwanji Bon Odori Summer Fest 2015.
  33. ↑ KUANA TORRES KAHELE Kaeo Hula.
  34. ↑ Waipuna - E Mau Ke Aloha (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  35. ↑ Ho`okena - Moani Ke Ala (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  36. ↑ Na Hoa - "Lei Puakenikeni" with Hula by Mahina Souza.
  37. ↑ Danny Carvalho - Ku'ulei Ku'uipo (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  38. ↑ Na Hoa - Waikiki Hula Medley.
  39. ↑ Hawaiian Airlines' Pau Hana Fridays - Na Hoa: Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai.
  40. ↑ Nā Hoa - "Kāneʻohe"/"Kaloaloa,"/"Ho'okipa Paka".
  41. ↑ Oli Kū Mauna.
  42. ↑ KUANA TORRES KAHELE Beauty A'o Moloka'i.
  43. ↑ Weldon Kekauoha - Lei Ho'oheno (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  44. ↑ Aloha Oli (Chant) at Malama-Ki.
  45. ↑ Na Hoa - Lei Pua Kenikeni.
  46. ↑ Kuana Torres - Na Vaqueros (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!).
  47. ↑ Kumu Maile Yamanaka chants at Kope Kope.

Hotspot mushrooms

An inter-island cultural landscape is more meaningful than Honolulu/Hilo/resort peaks. One broad home field and a lighter durable Californian diaspora field show continuity while leaving particular chants and community authority to narrative context.

These fields are editorial illustrations of musical affinity and cultural reach, not listener statistics. Radius marks the zero edge of the fade; overlapping fields of this genre combine by maximum.

MuGlobe hotspot mushrooms
ID Location Latitude Longitude Radius (km) Strength Notes
hawaiian-traditional-hawaii Hawaiian island-chain mele and hula landscapes 20.9 -157.3 900 1 Connected inhabited-island communities, language, teaching and repertoire.
hawaiian-traditional-california Californian Hawaiian diaspora cultural networks 36.5 -120 1000 0.35 Durable hālau, family, teaching and performance connections rather than generic tropical-pop interest.
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