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 Podcast Show 702 - Royal Flush Welcome to another inspiring edition of the Hawaiian Concert Guide. Episode 702, titled Royal Flush, is a heartfelt musical journey through aloha for family, love of place, worship, memory, and the unmistakable beauty of Hawaiian harmony. This episode moves gracefully from contemporary Hawaiian recordings into faith-filled expressions, pauses for a fun and nostalgic exotica interlude, and then returns home with classic Hawaiian vocal richness. At the top of the show, we feature a special live interview with Nick and Sam, who are visiting Hilo, Hawaiʻi for the world-renowned Merrie Monarch Festival, the premier celebration of hula and Hawaiian cultural arts. From the vibrant energy of Hilo during festival week to the deep traditions of hula, chant, and storytelling, Nick and Sam share their firsthand experiences attending one of the most significant cultural events in Hawaiʻi. Their perspective offers listeners a glimpse into the atmosphere, excitement, and reverence that define Merrie Monarch. The selections in this episode reflect some of the deepest values found in Hawaiian music: reverence for loved ones, profound attachment to the land, gratitude to God, and the enduring power of mele to preserve both emotion and identity. The result is an episode that feels warm, reflective, and deeply rooted. Featured Tracks 1. E Māma - Kaleo Phillips Album: E Mama Duration: 4:01 Opening the episode is E Māma, a song that immediately establishes an intimate and reverent emotional tone. The title suggests a tribute to mother, and in Hawaiian musical tradition, songs honoring mothers often carry meanings that go beyond a single individual. They can also reflect family lineage, sacrifice, tenderness, and the continuity of aloha across generations. Kaleo Phillips delivers the mele with restraint and sincerity, allowing the song’s emotional core to remain front and center. Rather than overwhelming the listener with a dense arrangement, the song appears to rely on warmth, vocal phrasing, and a steady melodic line. That simplicity is part of its strength. Hawaiian music often does its best work when it trusts the story. As an opening track, this selection acts as a gateway into the entire episode. It introduces a theme that echoes through several of the songs that follow: love expressed not through spectacle, but through remembrance, gentleness, and deep personal connection. Theme: Family love, reverence, remembrance Musical character: Gentle, reflective, intimate Why it matters: Sets the emotional and spiritual tone for the full episode 2. Puna Kuʻu Aloha - Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter Album: Ho'i Ke Aloha - EP Duration: 3:57 Puna Kuʻu Aloha is a beautiful example of Hawaiian songwriting rooted in place. In Hawaiian mele, land is never just scenery. It is memory, identity, relationship, and presence. To sing of Puna is to sing of a living place with emotional and cultural meaning. Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter brings grace and emotional clarity to this performance. The phrase kuʻu aloha conveys a deeply personal affection, making the title feel like a love letter to Puna itself. This is one of the distinctive strengths of Hawaiian music: the ability to treat land as beloved, not merely observed. Puna, on Hawaiʻi Island, carries layers of meaning through its lush beauty, dynamic volcanic history, and deep cultural associations. Songs about Puna often hold a sense of longing, beauty, and transformation. This recording fits naturally within that lineage, inviting the listener to hear place as something cherished and alive. Theme: Love of place, emotional geography, identity Musical character: Flowing, melodic, affectionate Why it matters: Reinforces the Hawaiian tradition of connecting aloha with the land 3. Haleakalā - Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter Album: Ho'i Ke Aloha - EP Duration: 3:37 Staying with Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter, Haleakalā shifts the focus from one beloved region to one of Hawaiʻi’s most revered natural and spiritual landmarks. Haleakalā is not only a mountain; it is a place layered with story, reverence, and mythic resonance. In Hawaiian tradition, places are often inseparable from the narratives attached to them. Haleakalā is famously associated with Māui, who was said to have lassoed the sun there. Because of that, references to Haleakalā can carry themes of time, light, wonder, and power. A song named for it naturally invites awe. Musically, this piece feels expansive, fitting the majesty of the subject. It broadens the emotional landscape of the episode and deepens the sense that Hawaiian music can hold both personal tenderness and geographic grandeur in the same artistic frame. Theme: Sacred place, wonder, mythic landscape Musical character: Spacious, reverent, elevated Why it matters: Expands the episode from intimate affection into spiritual geography 4. Goodness of God - Gregory Juan Album: Kauluwehi Duration: 3:41 With Goodness of God, the episode moves more directly into the language of testimony and praise. Though widely known in contemporary Christian music, a Hawaiian-oriented rendition invites the listener to hear the song through a different cultural lens. In this context, gratitude becomes more than a lyric theme; it connects naturally with the Hawaiian value of mahalo. Gregory Juan’s performance likely resonates because of that fusion. Contemporary worship songs can sometimes feel structurally familiar, but when interpreted with island phrasing, local vocal sensibility, and an ear for relational warmth, they can take on a more grounded and communal feeling. This track serves as an important bridge in the episode. The earlier songs honor people and places. Here, the orientation shifts upward in gratitude toward God. That movement from family and land into faith gives the episode a natural spiritual progression. Theme: Gratitude, testimony, faith Musical character: Worshipful, warm, heartfelt Why it matters: Bridges Hawaiian sensibility with contemporary Christian expression 5. Hawaiʻi Aloha - Kamalei Kawaʻa Album: Mānaiakalani Duration: 4:56 Few songs carry the emotional and cultural significance of Hawaiʻi Aloha. This is one of the most beloved anthems in Hawaiian music, often sung at the close of gatherings as a gesture of unity, affection, and enduring connection to the islands and their people. Kamalei Kawaʻa’s inclusion of this song is powerful within the context of Episode 702. After moving through songs of personal love, cherished places, and gratitude to God, this anthem broadens the circle to embrace the whole of Hawaiʻi. It becomes communal rather than only personal. The strength of this song lies not only in melody but in function. It has become a song that people live with, sing together, and use to mark belonging. That sense of shared identity is one of the central treasures of Hawaiian music. Theme: Unity, homeland, shared aloha Musical character: Anthemic, communal, dignified Why it matters: One of the emotional anchors of the entire episode 6. Hoʻomana Ia Iesu (feat. Ka ʻOhana Kawaʻa) - Kamalei Kawaʻa Album: Mānaiakalani Duration: 4:04 Hoʻomana Ia Iesu brings the episode to an explicitly devotional place. The title itself centers worship of Jesus, and the featured participation of Ka ʻOhana Kawaʻa adds a family and community dimension that is especially meaningful in Hawaiian music. Hawaiian Christian music has long occupied an important place in the islands’ musical life. What makes songs like this especially compelling is the way they join worship with family, language, and local style. Faith is not presented as abstract doctrine, but as something lived together and sung together. The communal nature of the performance likely enhances its emotional impact. Family voices singing in harmony naturally reinforce the message. In a broader sense, this track reflects one of the recurring motifs of the episode: love becomes fullest when shared. Theme: Worship, family faith, shared devotion Musical character: Reverent, communal, spiritually centered Why it matters: Deepens the episode’s faith dimension while preserving a strong Hawaiian identity Exotica Segment 7. Exotica Segment Intro - pik00 Duration: 4:10 This segment intro marks a stylistic transition in the episode. Up to this point, the program has focused on music deeply rooted in Hawaiian identity, language, faith, and place. The Exotica segment steps sideways into a related but distinctly different musical world: one shaped by fantasy, lounge aesthetics, and mid-century tropical imagination. That contrast is part of what makes the segment valuable. It offers not only variety, but also perspective. It reminds listeners that “island music” has often been interpreted and reimagined far beyond Hawaiʻi itself. 8. On the Beach at Waikīkī (mix final) - Les Waikikings Album: Hapa haole with a twist Duration: 2:17 On the Beach at Waikīkī leans into the playful charm of tropical nostalgia. The title alone evokes postcard Hawaiʻi: surf, sand, leisure, and romance. In exotica and hapa-haole-adjacent material, the islands often become a stage for fantasy rather than an expression of local lived culture. That does not make the piece without merit. On the contrary, tracks like this can be delightful, catchy, and historically revealing. They show how Hawaiʻi was imagined internationally and how tropical motifs were translated into entertainment music for broad audiences. Within this episode, the song acts as a light palate cleanser. It introduces a wink of vintage fun before the program returns to more deeply rooted Hawaiian harmony. Theme: Tropical nostalgia, leisure, fantasy Musical character: Breezy, lounge-like, playful Why it matters: Adds historical contrast and tonal variety 9. How dya do - Les Waikikings Album: Hapa haole with a twist Duration: 3:03 How dya do continues the exotica mood with a likely emphasis on upbeat rhythm, polished arrangement, and the stylized “tropical” sound associated with mid-century popular music. These sorts of recordings often present a cheerful, cinematic island atmosphere rather than a culturally grounded one. For listeners of the Hawaiian Concert Guide, that difference is worth noticing. Authentic Hawaiian music often carries place, genealogy, language, and community. Exotica tends to carry mood, escapism, and fantasy. Hearing both in one episode can be educational as well as entertaining. In programming terms, this track keeps the episode lively and prevents the emotional arc from becoming too uniform. It is a well-timed detour before the music returns to classic Hawaiian vocal artistry. Theme: Escapism, retro charm, tropical stylization Musical character: Light, rhythmic, lounge-oriented Why it matters: Helps frame the distinction between Hawaiian music and music inspired by Hawaiʻi Closing Selections: Return to Hawaiian Vocal Depth 10. Ka Loke - Ho'okena Album: Ho'okena 5 Duration: 4:16 The return from exotica to Ho'okena is a return to center. Ka Loke carries the unmistakable richness of Hawaiian group harmony and poetic sensibility. Ho'okena is known for vocal blend, emotional precision, and the ability to let the song breathe. The title, meaning “the rose,” suggests metaphor, beauty, and affection. Hawaiian songwriting frequently uses natural imagery not simply as decoration, but as a means of expressing human feeling. Flowers, winds, rains, mountains, and seas all become emotional language. This track is especially effective late in the episode because it restores a sense of depth and rootedness after the lighter detour of the exotica set. The listener is brought back into the fuller emotional and cultural world of Hawaiian mele. Theme: Beauty, poetic love, emotional symbolism Musical character: Harmonically rich, graceful, classic Why it matters: Re-centers the episode in traditional Hawaiian vocal beauty 11. I Love You - Ho'okena Album: Ho'okena 5 Duration: 4:11 I Love You closes the episode with warmth and universality. While the title is in English, the emotional spirit aligns perfectly with the rest of the program. The entire episode has, in one form or another, been about love: love for mother, love for place, love for God, love expressed in community, and love carried in harmony. Ho'okena’s treatment of a song like this likely gives it both accessibility and depth. Their vocal approach can make even a simple phrase feel timeless. That is one of the gifts of strong Hawaiian harmony: it elevates feeling without forcing it. As a final track, this song functions almost like a benediction. It leaves the listener with a sense of peace and completion, gathering together the many emotional strands of the episode into one simple message. Theme: Love, closure, emotional unity Musical character: Gentle, harmonious, reassuring Why it matters: A fitting final statement for an episode built around aloha in many forms Episode Reflection Episode 702, E Māma, is structured with unusual emotional coherence. Even though the tracks come from different artists and include a temporary move into exotica, the overall episode still feels unified. That unity comes from its central themes: affection, reverence, gratitude, and connection. The first portion of the program focuses on intimacy and place. E Māma, Puna Kuʻu Aloha, and Haleakalā all carry a sense of deep regard, whether for family or landscape. From there, the episode opens into spiritual testimony with Goodness of God, then broadens into collective and devotional identity through Hawaiʻi Aloha and Hoʻomana Ia Iesu. The exotica segment introduces contrast and historical perspective, reminding listeners that Hawaiʻi has often been interpreted from afar in ways that are entertaining but not always rooted. That makes the return to Ho'okena especially satisfying. Their closing selections restore the sound of home, depth, and harmony. If there is a single word that best describes this episode, it is aloha. Not merely as a greeting, but as a way of relating: to mother, to beloved places, to God, to family, and to one another. Track List E Māma - Kaleo Phillips - 4:01 Puna Kuʻu Aloha - Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter - 3:57 Haleakalā - Christy Leinaʻala Lassiter - 3:37 Goodness of God - Gregory Juan - 3:41 Hawaiʻi Aloha - Kamalei Kawaʻa - 4:56 Hoʻomana Ia Iesu (feat. Ka ʻOhana Kawaʻa) - Kamalei Kawaʻa - 4:04 Exotica Segment Intro - pik00 - 4:10 On the Beach at Waikīkī (mix final) - Les Waikikings - 2:17 How dya do - Les Waikikings - 3:03 Ka Loke - Ho'okena - 4:16 I Love You - Ho'okena - 4:11 Closing Mahalo for joining us for Hawaiian Concert Guide Podcast Show 702. May these songs encourage you to remember those you love, appreciate the beauty of Hawaiʻi, and carry aloha into the week ahead. A hui hou and malama pono.

Aloha, and welcome to a truly historic moment! Today we celebrate Show 700 of the Hawaiian Concert Guide. Reaching 700 episodes is often referred to as a "Golden Milestone" in broadcasting. It signifies excellence, resilience, and a legacy that has stood the test of time. To honor this occasion, we’ve assembled a playlist that spans the spectrum of the Hawaiian sound—from sacred ancestral chants to the whimsical "Hapa Haole" revival. The Legacy of the Land: Gregory Juan We open our 700th celebration with Gregory Juan, an artist whose work from the album Kauluwehi serves as a bridge between past and present. 'O Waimea e Hōʻala: This powerful opening track was written by Gregory’s grandfather, the late cultural advocate Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr. It is a tribute to the sacred ahupua‘a of Waimea, Maui, serving as an "awakening" song that reminds us of our ancestral ties to the land. Pua Melie: A beloved classic by Aunty Edith Kanaka‘ole. While the melie (plumeria) is beautiful to the eye, the song’s deeper kauna (hidden meaning) honors the harmony of voices in the Keaukaha community. Modern Vibrations: Kamalei Kawaa Next, we feature the soulful, award-winning sounds of Kamalei Kawaa from his album Mānaiakalani. Hānaulā (feat. Kainani Kahaunaele): A masterful collaboration celebrating the mountainous beauty of West Maui. The interplay between Kamalei and the legendary Kainani Kahaunaele is a highlight of contemporary Hawaiian vocal arrangement. Ku'u Aloha: A tender track that showcases Kamalei’s signature falsetto. It is a song of pure affection, bridging the love between people and the ‘āina. The Spirit of Slack Key: Kawika Kahiapo It wouldn't be Show 700 without the rhythmic grace of Kawika Kahiapo. Pule: Featuring an oration by Kumu Hula Chinky Mahoe, this track is a profound moment of prayer and gratitude. It is the perfect spiritual "center" for our milestone episode. In Living Color: This track features the "3D" collaboration (Del Beazley, David Kahiapo, and Dwight Kanae), offering a bright, jazz-influenced celebration of the vibrant life in the islands today. Special Feature: The French Exotica Revival A major highlight of this episode is our exclusive interview with the French Exotica band, Les Waikikings. We had a fantastic time chatting with them about their passion for the "Hapa Haole" sound and how a group from France became masters of this vintage island genre. Their perspective on the global influence of Hawaiian music is fascinating, and their dedication to the "twist" on traditional styles is truly inspiring. Te manu pukarua: A high-energy Polynesian classic reimagined with shimmering steel guitars and lush percussion. Native Love: A haunting, atmospheric piece that captures the dreamlike, escapist spirit of the 1950s "Golden Age" of Exotica. The Foundation: Ho'okena We close our 700th show with the unmistakable harmonies of Ho'okena, whose work from the album Ho'okena 5 remains a pillar of the genre. From a Dancer: A stunning Hawaiian-style cover of the Jackson Browne classic. Ho'okena turns this folk-rock masterpiece into a beautiful island tribute to the cycle of life. Windward Side: A nostalgic "love letter" to the Windward coast of O‘ahu. It captures the trade winds and the mist on the Koolau mountains, ending our 700th episode on a note of pure, graceful Aloha. Mahalo for being part of the first 700 shows. Here’s to the next 700!

🌺🎧 Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show #698 Illumination, Identity & Island Imagination This week’s episode is built around a powerful theme: light, place, memory, and musical identity. From spiritually grounded Hawaiian mele to contemporary songwriting, slack key reflections, and a splash of mid-century exotica, Show #698 travels wide — and then brings us beautifully home. 🌿 Opening with Light – Kahiau Lam Ho We begin with the luminous voice of Kahiau Lam Ho, whose album Hoʻomālamalama (“to illuminate”) frames the emotional tone of this episode. ✨ “Hoʻomālamalama” (feat. Stephen Inglis) A glowing collaboration with master guitarist Stephen Inglis. The arrangement is spacious and reverent, allowing Kahiau’s voice to rise with clarity and purpose. This song sets the spiritual and reflective tone of the show. ✨ “The One They Call Hawai‘i” A thoughtful meditation on identity — not the tourist postcard version, but the deeper Hawaiʻi shaped by culture, ʻāina, and lived experience. It’s contemporary in sound, yet firmly rooted in tradition. 🌺 Island Warmth – Kamalei Kawaa From introspection we shift into melodic warmth with Kamalei Kawaa. 🌸 “Maui Girl (Special Version)” Light, breezy, and heartfelt — this track captures island romance with sincerity and charm. 🌸 “Hula’s Song” A gentle tribute to the cultural heartbeat of Hawaiʻi. The rhythm sways naturally, evoking the movement and grace of hula and the ʻike passed from kumu to haumāna. 🎸 Reflection & Perspective – Kawika Kahiapo Next comes the expressive artistry of Kawika Kahiapo, blending singer-songwriter storytelling with slack key sensitivity. 🎶 “The Way It Is” Honest and grounded, this song carries lyrical introspection supported by Kawika’s fluid guitar phrasing. 🎶 “Another Time” A nostalgic reflection that feels both personal and universal. There’s space in this arrangement — room to think, to remember, and to feel. 🗺️ A Mid-Century Escape – Exotica Interlude Then we take a playful turn into tropical imagination and retro island fantasy. 🌴 The Waitiki 7 – “Adventures in Paradise” Vibraphones shimmer, percussion dances lightly, and the soundscape becomes cinematic. It’s a stylized escape — colorful and transportive. 🌴 Les Waikikings – “Minoi Minoi” Hapa-haole charm with a twist. Lighthearted, rhythmic, and unmistakably vintage — a nod to how Hawaiʻi was imagined in mid-century pop culture. 🌊 Returning Home – Hoʻokena We close with the rich harmonies of Hoʻokena, grounding the show once again in place and tradition. 🌺 “Aloha Hōnaunau” A heartfelt tribute to the sacred and historic district of Hōnaunau on Hawaiʻi Island. The harmonies are full and reverent, honoring the mana of place. 🌺 “Hilo Nani e” An affectionate celebration of Hilo — lush, rainy, beloved. A joyful and satisfying conclusion to a beautifully balanced episode. 🎧 Why This Show Matters Show #698 explores: • Illumination through faith and cultural identity • The warmth of contemporary Hawaiian songwriting • Reflection through slack key artistry • The playful imagination of exotica • And a grounding return to ʻāina and harmony It’s modern yet rooted. Reflective yet joyful. A musical journey across time and place — all anchored in aloha. 🎧 Listen now and let the music illuminate your week. Mahalo for supporting Hawaiian music and for keeping these stories alive. 🌺✨🤙

Hawaiian Concert Guide – Show #696 Show #696 weaves together contemporary Hawaiian mele, masterful slack key guitar, a reverent royal prayer, and a playful detour into retro exotica—then returns home with modern harmonies and a closing affirmation of identity. Detailed Playlist “Kaulana ʻo Maui” — Kamalei Kawaa (1:20) Album: Mānaiakalani A short, vivid mele that celebrates the renown of Maui. Kamalei Kawaa opens the episode with a strong sense of place and cultural grounding, offering an inviting entry point into the show’s island-centered storytelling. Despite its brief runtime, the track sets an intentional tone: rooted, respectful, and warmly personal. “Hawaiian Rainbow” — Kahiau Lam Ho (2:50) Album: Hoʻomālamalama Bright and uplifting, this track carries a message of hope and renewal. Kahiau Lam Ho’s contemporary approach pairs accessible melody with a distinctly Hawaiian sensibility, making it a feel-good moment that still honors cultural continuity. The song’s optimism complements the episode’s opening theme of place and belonging. “Kona Moon” — Kahiau Lam Ho (2:37) Album: Hoʻomālamalama A mellow, romantic island-night reflection inspired by the Kona coast. The pacing and phrasing invite listeners into a quieter emotional space—warm, intimate, and unhurried. Placed after “Hawaiian Rainbow,” it shifts the mood from celebratory brightness to a more contemplative evening glow. “East Side Slack Key” — Kawika Kahiapo (4:01) Album: Kuʻu Manaʻo A standout instrumental showcasing the depth of kī hō‘alu (slack key guitar). Kawika Kahiapo’s touch is both precise and expressive, balancing rhythmic drive with open, resonant harmony. This track provides a spacious listening moment—ideal for appreciating the nuance and tradition embedded in Hawaiian guitar craft. “Nani Wale Kualoa” — Kawika Kahiapo (3:53) Album: Kuʻu Manaʻo A musical love letter to Kualoa—its beauty, presence, and sense of mana. The melody and phrasing feel place-centered and reverent, continuing the episode’s theme of honoring specific landscapes through sound. The pairing with “East Side Slack Key” creates a strong mid-show slack key feature block. “Queen’s Prayer” — Jerome Koko, Daniel Ho & Tia Carrere (3:28) Album: Makaha Sons Memoirs A deeply reverent rendition of Queen Liliʻuokalani’s prayer, offered with restraint and respect. The arrangement emphasizes reflection and spiritual gravity rather than ornamentation, allowing the message and history to remain central. This performance serves as a meaningful cultural anchor in the episode—devotional, dignified, and moving. “Ned’s Redemption” — The Waitiki 7 (1:17) Album: Adventures In Paradise A brief, cinematic exotica vignette—playful and atmosphere-driven. Positioned after “Queen’s Prayer,” it functions as a palate cleanser: a quick tonal pivot that keeps the episode dynamic while still staying within an island-adjacent musical universe. “Sacha-Cha” — The Waitiki 7 (2:35) Album: Adventures In Paradise Upbeat and retro, this track leans into classic lounge/exotica energy with rhythmic flair. It’s a lighthearted interlude that adds variety and fun—an intentional shift that refreshes the ear before the program returns to contemporary Hawaiian songwriting and harmony. “Home” — Waipuna (4:22) Album: Manaʻo Pili A heartfelt modern Hawaiian composition centered on belonging and emotional roots. Waipuna’s polished harmonies and contemporary production create a sense of welcome and familiarity—bringing the episode back from the playful exotica detour into a grounded, lyric-forward Hawaiian space. “E Ku Kanaka” — Hoʻokena (4:57) Album: Hoʻokena 5 A powerful closing statement affirming identity, pride, and perseverance. Hoʻokena’s folk-rooted approach and steady drive make this a resonant finale—leaving listeners with a strong sense of purpose and cultural continuity. A fitting conclusion to an episode built around place, heritage, and the living voice of Hawaiian music today. Episode Summary Show #696 moves from place-based mele and contemporary Hawaiian songwriting into a featured slack key set, pauses for a reverent royal prayer, and then takes a playful side-trip through exotica—before returning “Home” and closing with a bold affirmation in “E Ku Kanaka.” A complete listen that reflects both the roots and the range of Hawaiian and island-influenced music.

Hawaiian Concert Guide Show 694 – Nano Banana Episode Synopsis Welcome to Show 694 – Nano Banana. This episode takes listeners on a sweeping musical journey across Hawaiian heritage: beginning with timeless mele rooted in the landscapes and stories of Waipiʻo Valley and the Hawaiian monarchy, moving through themes of aloha ʻāina and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy and refinement of the Makaha Sons, venturing into the lush and cinematic world of modern Exotica, and finally returning home through the warm harmonies of Waipuna. The playful title “Nano Banana” reflects how small musical details reveal surprisingly big cultural stories — a perfect theme for this carefully curated playlist. Playlist – Show 694: Nano Banana Hiʻilawe – Kahiau Lam Ho (4:19) Ho‘omālamalama “Hiʻilawe” is one of the most iconic traditional mele of Hawaiʻi, tied to Waipiʻo Valley on Hawaiʻi Island. The mele references the towering Hiʻilawe waterfall and a story of hidden love. Generations of musicians—from Sam Liʻa to Gabby Pahinui—have carried this mele forward. Kahiau Lam Ho’s contemporary interpretation preserves the melodic intimacy of the piece while presenting it through a modern vocal and production style. Sanoe – Kahiau Lam Ho (4:56) Ho‘omālamalama Composed by Queen Liliʻuokalani and Princess Likelike, “Sanoe” is a mele filled with kaona—hidden meaning—traditionally understood as a story of secret royal affection. Lam Ho’s version leans into the quiet emotional tone of the mele, using minimalist accompaniment that allows the poetry and nuance to shine. Pukalani Hale – Kawika Kahiapo (4:26) Kuʻu Manaʻo “Pukalani Hale” is a place-based mele grounded in the upcountry region of Pukalani on Maui — often translated as “heavenly gateway.” Kawika Kahiapo, known for his warm slack-key guitar and heartfelt delivery, performs the mele as an expression of home, spirituality, and gratitude. His musicianship reinforces the intimate connection between land and identity. Mother Earth – Kawika Kahiapo (4:15) Kuʻu Manaʻo “Mother Earth” expands Hawaiian concepts of aloha ʻāina to a global message of environmental responsibility. Kahiapo uses gentle acoustic textures to remind listeners of their obligation to care for the planet. The mele blends Hawaiian worldview with modern ecological awareness, making it a contemporary anthem of stewardship. Queen’s Jubilee – Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho (5:15) Makaha Sons Memoirs “Queen’s Jubilee” celebrates the musical heritage of the Makaha Sons through the talents of Jerome Koko and Grammy-winning producer Daniel Ho. Their collaboration fuses refined acoustic arrangements with the sentimental warmth associated with the monarchy era. The piece functions as a tribute — both to the past and to the many voices that shaped Hawaiian music across generations. Ka Makani Kā‘ili Aloha – Jerome Koko & Daniel Ho (4:56) Makaha Sons Memoirs A beloved classic mele often translated as “The Wind That Steals Love Away,” the song personifies wind as an emotional force. Koko and Ho offer a clean, harmony-rich interpretation that honors the poetic storytelling at the heart of the mele. It pairs beautifully with “Queen’s Jubilee” to form a thematic homage to Hawaiian musical legacy. Ouanalao – The Waitiki 7 (4:33) Adventures in Paradise “Ouanalao,” named after the indigenous term for Saint Barthélemy, fits squarely in the spirit of mid-century Exotica while elevating it with jazz sophistication and modern cultural respect. The Waitiki 7 are known for reinvigorating Exotica through scholarly musicianship rather than kitsch. This track creates a lush world-fusion soundscape that expands the emotional palette of the show. L’ours Chinois – The Waitiki 7 (8:07) Adventures in Paradise “The Chinese Bear” is a long-form instrumental journey blending Asian thematic colors, jazz improvisation, shifting tempo landscapes, and intricate percussion. It is cinematic in scope and demonstrates the ensemble’s ability to honor Exotica’s roots while pushing it into new, musically ambitious territory. The track deepens the atmospheric middle section of the episode. Lehua Mamo – Waipuna (4:22) Manaʻo Pili A mele celebrating the cherished yellow lehua blossom. Waipuna’s arrangement uses contemporary harmonies and polished production to honor traditional imagery of forests, blossoms, and affection. The emotional tone begins to guide listeners back toward themes of home, love, and belonging. Home Kapaka – Waipuna (3:55) Manaʻo Pili A perfect closing mele expressing homecoming, identity, and emotional grounding. Waipuna’s clear vocals and gentle arrangement bring the episode full circle, returning listeners to the values of place, ʻohana, and aloha that shape Hawaiian experience. © 2025 Hawaiian Concert Guide. All music remains the property of the respective artists and labels.

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