Hawaiian Concert Guide

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!

Hawaiian Concert Guide – Episode 692 Release Date: October 17, 2025 Host: Piko Title: Whale Hoohoo Episode Summary In this episode of the Hawaiian Concert Guide, Piko takes listeners on a musical journey through contemporary Hawaiian mele, slack-key gems, and lush Exotica instrumentals. From heartfelt vocal collaborations to instrumental storytelling and a powerful closing chorus of "Hawaiʻi Aloha," Episode 692 celebrates how music keeps the spirit of the islands alive across oceans. Track List & Song Notes "Hoʻomālamalama" (feat. Stephen Inglis) – Kahiau Lam Ho – 4:10 Album: Hoʻomālamalama · Hawaiian The title Hoʻomālamalama can be translated as "to enlighten" or "to bring light." In this track, Kahiau Lam Ho teams up with acclaimed musician Stephen Inglis to offer a song about healing, clarity, and renewal. Gentle, thoughtful vocals and a reflective arrangement give the piece a meditative quality, as if lifting the listener out of darkness and into understanding. "The One They Call Hawaiʻi" – Kahiau Lam Ho – 5:40 Album: Hoʻomālamalama · Hawaiian This song personifies Hawaiʻi as a beloved figure—someone the singer speaks of with reverence and affection. The lyrics and feel of the track evoke pride in the land and its people, touching on themes of identity, stewardship, and belonging. It plays like a love song to the islands themselves, inviting listeners to reflect on what "Hawaiʻi" means to them personally. "Kuʻu Pili Oha" – Kawika Kahiapo – 3:44 Album: Kuʻu Manaʻo · Hawaiian The phrase Kuʻu Pili Oha can be understood as "my cherished closeness" or "beloved companion." Kawika Kahiapo, known for his soulful slack-key guitar and warm vocals, offers a gentle, intimate mele that feels like a conversation between close hearts. It's the kind of song that could be sung quietly on a porch at sunset, filled with gratitude for the relationships that sustain us. "One Heart One Voice" – Kawika Kahiapo – 4:13 Album: Kuʻu Manaʻo · Hawaiian "One Heart One Voice" leans into themes of unity and shared purpose. Kahiapo's songwriting often carries messages of peace and responsibility, and this track is a call for people to stand together with aloha. It's an uplifting reminder that when we speak and act as one, even big challenges feel more manageable. "ʻAnapau" – Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho – 2:39 Album: Makaha Sons Memoirs · Hawaiian From a project reflecting on the legacy of the Makaha Sons, "ʻAnapau" is a lively, joyful piece that carries the spirit of classic Hawaiian group vocals into a new setting. Jerome Koko's connection to the original Makaha Sons material, paired with Daniel Ho's arranging and production touch, makes this track feel both nostalgic and freshly polished. It's easy to picture friends singing along at a backyard gathering. "Poliahu" – Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho – 5:10 Album: Makaha Sons Memoirs · Hawaiian "Poliahu" is a tribute to the snow goddess of Mauna Kea. The song's mood leans more contemplative and reverent, fitting for a mele about a powerful and enigmatic figure in Hawaiian tradition. Listeners can feel the chill and majesty of the mountain in the way the melody unfolds—calm, spacious, and full of respect. "Manila" – The Waitiki 7 – 7:05 Album: Adventures in Paradise · Exotica The Waitiki 7 are known for reviving and expanding the classic Exotica sound, and "Manila" is a great example of their globe-trotting imagination. This instrumental piece conjures images of harbors, markets, and far-away ports of call. Rich textures and layered rhythms give it a cinematic feel that pairs perfectly with daydreams of travel. "Craving" – The Waitiki 7 – 5:07 Album: Adventures in Paradise · Exotica "Craving" leans into mood and atmosphere: it feels like a soundtrack for late-night conversations under tiki lights. The tune balances playful melodic lines with a slightly mysterious undercurrent, capturing that feeling of restless longing the title suggests. It's a reminder that Exotica can be both fun and emotionally evocative. "I Can See Arkansas" – Waipuna – 4:52 Album: Manaʻo Pili · Hawaiian Waipuna blend Hawaiian roots with storytelling influences that reach beyond the islands. "I Can See Arkansas" plays with the idea of geographical distance and emotional closeness—how memories and imagination can make a faraway place feel just within sight. It's a beautiful example of how Hawaiian artists connect local sensibilities with wider world experiences. "Owl's Lullaby" – Waipuna – 3:15 Album: Manaʻo Pili · Hawaiian As the title suggests, "Owl's Lullaby" has a gentle, comforting quality. In Hawaiian culture, the pueo (owl) can be a protector and guardian, and this song carries that sense of watchful care. It's the kind of mele you could easily imagine as a bedtime favorite, soothing the end of the day with calm and grace. Mahalo for Listening Mahalo nui for joining Piko on this musical journey! Please support the featured artists by seeking out their albums, attending live shows when you can, and sharing their music with friends and family. Your listening helps keep Hawaiian music, language, and stories thriving for future generations. For past episodes, artist links, and more information, visit HawaiianConcertGuide.com.

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar In Living Color Kawika Kahiapo Ku'u Mana'o Sanoe Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho Makaha Sons Memoirs Hiu No Wau Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho Makaha Sons Memoirs Ho'ola Lahui Hawai'i Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Nipolo Mapu Ka Hanu Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Kaula 'Ili Christy Leina'ala Lassiter Kona Cowgirl Coronation The Waitiki 7 Adventures In Paradise Totem Pole The Waitiki 7 Adventures In Paradise Mana'o Pili Waipuna Mana'o Pili Ali'ipoe Waipuna Mana'o Pili

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar I Wehi Rose No Ka Lani Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Somewhere out There (feat. Wehilei) Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Hu'e Hu'e Christy Leina'ala Lassiter Kona Cowgirl He Aloha No O Honolulu Christy Leina'ala Lassiter Kona Cowgirl Mauna Kilohana Kalani Pe'a Kuini Tiare Maohi Medley Kalani Pe'a Kuini Ruby The Waitiki 7 New Sounds Of Exotica China Fan The Waitiki 7 New Sounds Of Exotica E Pili Kaua Waipuna Mana'o Pili Ka Ulu Niu O Waipouli Waipuna Mana'o Pili

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar Kahenewai'olu Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Panini Puakea Kamaka Kukona Kahenewai'olu Ku'u Hoa Hololio Christy Leina'ala Lassiter Kona Cowgirl Ka Moa'e Christy Leina'ala Lassiter Kona Cowgirl Waimea Kamahaʻo Kalani Pe'a Kuini Ho'onanea Kalani Pe'a Kuini Bali Ha'i The Waitiki 7 New Sounds Of Exotica When First I Love The Waitiki 7 New Sounds Of Exotica Malama Mau Hawai'i Waipuna Mana'o Pili Papa Sia Waipuna Mana'o Pili

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar Ululani Nui Kalani Pe'a Kuini Kuini (Kuʻu Lei Aloha) Kalani Pe'a Kuini Volcano Mist (Instrumental) Apokolani Goin Home Hōʻonipaʻa (Instrumental) Apokolani Goin Home Misty Faith Ako & Tarvin Mania Ho'okanikapila, Maui Don't Know Why Faith Ako & Tarvin Mania Ho'okanikapila, Maui Pua Sakura Natalie Ai Kamauu Natalie Noelani Ka Inu Wai Natalie Ai Kamauu Natalie Noelani My Sweet Sweetie Willie K Awihilima: Reflections Na Moku Eha Willie K Awihilima: Reflections The Myna BIrd's Dobro Keola Beamer Soliloquy - Ka Leo O Loko Papa's `Okolehao Keola Beamer Soliloquy - Ka Leo O Loko

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar Hele Mai Le'ale'a Kākou (Instrumental) Apokolani Goin Home 'Ohana Chimes (Instrumental) Apokolani Goin Home Fly Me to the Moon Faith Ako & Tarvin Makia Ho'okanikapila, Maui Girl from Ipanema Faith Ako & Tarvin Makia Ho'okanikapila, Maui My Sweet Natalie Ai Kamauu & Iolani Kamauu Natalie Noelani What a Wonderful World Natalie Ai Kamauu Natalie Noelani

Aloha mai kakou, Please enjoy this broadcast of new Hawaiian music, most of which you have probably never heard before. Click here to support the show: Hawaiian Concert Guide Tip Jar Autumn Leaves Faith Ako & Laurel Aiona Ho'okanikapila, Maui I'm in Love with a Beautiful Sunset Faith Ako & Laurel Aiona Ho'okanikapila, Maui Sunshine on My Shoulders Natalie Ai Kamauu Natalie Noelani Lei Onaona Natalie Ai Kamauu Natalie Noelani Ku'U Ipo O Ka Ua 'Elo'Elo Sean Na`auao E Kahiau Hi'Ilaniwai Sean Na`auao E Kahiau Waikiki Hula Willie K Awihilima: Reflections Holoholo Ka'a Willie K Awihilima: Reflections Mino'aka Keola Beamer Soliloquy - Ka Leo O Loko Moana's Laundry Basket Keola Beamer Soliloquy - Ka Leo O Loko