Photo Dancer: Eric Morgensen

Kulaiwi

Three of Hawai‘i’s leading award-winning performers and musicians —  Lehua Kalima (of Na Leo), Shawn Pimental, and Kawika Kahiapo have joined forces!  Hawaiian musicians, singers, songwriters, entertainers, they have formed Kulaiwi to create music that springs from their Native Hawaiian roots.  With the addition of bass player Joe Berinobis, they perform with soaring vocals, island harmonies and a folk vibe, along with an easy-going charisma and witty banter. Their featured original songs are inspired by diverse musical styles. Kulaiwi means “land of my ancestors”; their Hawaiian and folk-inflected songs pair Lehua’s expressive vocals with Shawn’s harmonies and guitar riffs, Kawika’s soulful voice and slack key guitar stylings, and Joe’s melodic bass notes, as they share their prodigious talents as lyricists, composers and instrumentalists.  

Accompanied by award-winning hula dancer Pono Fernandez, they create an evening that represents Hawai‘i today, while remaining mindful of their deep emotional connection to their roots. 

E Lili’u E with Hula (cue to 2:00)

Ku’u Lei Pua Kenikeni with Hula (cue to 1:05)

Eo Ku Kia’i Mauna