Waipuna

Bold new sound of Hawaiian music!

“The men of Waipuna have once again created a recording that honors the Hawaiian language and displays the art of Hawaiian poetry in song. ” –KKCR

“The symphonic blends of Waipuna… are so melodic, they sooth the soul and fuel your mana [divine power]!” –Hawaiian 105 KINE Radio

Celebrating 15 years at the forefront of Hawaiian contemporary music, Waipuna is an exciting collaboration of three talented individuals from celebrated Hawaiian musical families. Waipuna consistently wins Na Hōkū Hanohano (Hawai‘i’s “Grammys”) Awards every time they have a new album, from 2012 to the present, for a total 9 awards. Their 7th album Uluwehi won them 2024 Na Hoku Awards for Island Music Album of the Year, plus their release won Graphic Design Award, recognizing their album cover design by Kanai’a Nakamura shot at an almost inaccessible O’ahu valley.

Kale Hannahs is a veteran of the music scene, earning a reputation as a steady bass player and vocalist. His major in Hawaiian Studies finds voice in his songs. He was a founding member of the award winning group ‘Ale’a. Matthew Kawiaola Sproat was born and raised on O‘ahu, but is from the famous Sproat family from the Big Island. In 2003 Matt won the Big Island falsetto competition, and has both studied and performed with some of the best musicians in Hawai’i. David Kamakahi, whose renowned father Dennis Kamakahi was one of Hawaii’s most prolific songwriters, started playing ‘ukulele at the age of 15, studying the greats, such as ‘ukulele master and mentor Eddie Kamae. His clear natural talent shines through in his exceptionally clean technique and exhilarating playing.

Their eclectic musical backgrounds and gorgeous vocal harmonies have led to their unique sound that draws comparisons to their name, “waipuna”, or spring waters – resource, life force, connecting to ancestors and nurturing generations to come. One critic has dubbed their distinctive sound “neo-traditionalist” – authentic roots with a contemporary energy, sensibility, and joy. They bring a fresh and contemporary energy to Hawaiian classics and to the island sound, preserving tradition while moving it into the 21^st century. Hawaiian heritage is thriving, and Waipuna reflects both the traditions passed forward from the previous generations and the transformations that keep culture alive for the generations to come.

Tribute to Dennis Kamakahi