Hawaii isn’t just a paradise of swaying palms and sun-kissed beaches—it’s also a vibrant hub of musical talent that has echoed far beyond the islands. From soulful ukulele serenades to chart-topping global hits, Hawaiian-born artists have left an unforgettable mark on the world stage. Whether blending traditional chants with modern rhythms or electrifying arenas with pop and funk, these musicians carry the spirit of aloha in every note.
In this list, we celebrate the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from Hawaii—a diverse lineup of legends and trailblazers whose voices have captured hearts across generations. Some have built bridges between cultures, others have redefined genres, but all have elevated Hawaii’s musical legacy. From the gentle melodies of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole to the show-stopping charisma of Bruno Mars, each artist brings a unique sound rooted in island soul.
Get ready to explore the voices that have put Hawaii on the global musical map. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the magic of Hawaiian music, this list will inspire, entertain, and maybe even lead you to your next favorite song. Let the rhythm of the islands guide you—these are the voices of Hawaii. 🌺🎶
1. Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
With a voice as vast and gentle as the Hawaiian skies, Israel “Bruddah Iz” Kamakawiwoʻole remains a beloved icon of the islands. His medley of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World” became a global phenomenon, thanks to its emotional depth and breezy ukulele strumming. Born and raised in Honolulu, Iz was more than just a singer—he was a cultural ambassador who used his music to promote Native Hawaiian identity and independence. Despite his untimely passing in 1997, his legacy lives on through his timeless recordings and the deep sense of aloha woven into every note he sang.
2. Bruno Mars
Born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, Bruno Mars has rocketed from island roots to international superstardom. With his explosive stage presence, retro flair, and genre-blending hits like “Uptown Funk” and “Locked Out of Heaven,” Mars has become one of the defining artists of the 21st century. He’s an all-around entertainer—singing, dancing, producing, and writing chart-toppers with effortless charisma. Drawing from his diverse musical upbringing in a family of performers, Mars incorporates funk, soul, R&B, and pop into a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. His Hawaiian upbringing adds a unique flavor to his global appeal.
3. Jack Johnson
Oahu native Jack Johnson brings the ocean breeze to life with every mellow chord. Originally a professional surfer, Johnson pivoted to music after a surfing accident, and the world is better for it. His laid-back acoustic style, heard in hits like “Better Together” and “Banana Pancakes,” has become the soundtrack for beach bonfires and lazy Sunday mornings. But Johnson is more than a feel-good artist—he’s a passionate environmentalist, using his fame to promote sustainability and ocean conservation. His music radiates calm and kindness, echoing the rhythm of island life in every soothing lyric.
4. Don Ho
Don Ho is a name synonymous with Hawaiian entertainment. Rising to fame in the 1960s, he brought island charm to the mainland with his signature song “Tiny Bubbles.” Born in Honolulu, Ho was a lounge legend whose shows were a must-see for tourists and locals alike. His smooth vocals and easygoing demeanor made him a beloved figure in Las Vegas and on national television. More than just a crooner, Ho helped pave the way for Hawaiian music to reach a broader audience, becoming a cultural bridge between the islands and the world beyond.
5. Bette Midler
Few entertainers can match the versatility and longevity of Honolulu-born Bette Midler. From her early days singing in New York City bathhouses to her Broadway triumphs and Hollywood stardom, Midler has done it all. Known for her powerhouse vocals and sharp wit, she’s given us unforgettable performances in songs like “The Rose” and “Wind Beneath My Wings.” Her theatrical flair and commanding stage presence have earned her multiple Grammys, Emmys, and a Tony Award. Though she left Hawaii early in life, the spirit of the islands still resonates in her passionate performances and vibrant personality.
6. Kealiʻi Reichel
Kealiʻi Reichel is a torchbearer of Hawaiian tradition, blending ancient chant with contemporary melodies to create music that’s both soulful and sacred. A kumu hula (hula teacher), singer, and cultural educator, Reichel has played a pivotal role in preserving and revitalizing Hawaiian language and customs through his art. Songs like “Kawaipunahele” and “E O Mai” showcase his hauntingly beautiful voice and deep reverence for his ancestry. His albums have topped world music charts, but it’s his commitment to authenticity that has made him a cultural icon in and beyond Hawaii.
7. Anuhea
Anuhea Jenkins, known simply as Anuhea, brings a fresh, modern voice to Hawaiian music. With her blend of reggae-pop, island soul, and heartfelt songwriting, she’s carved out a niche that feels both island-grown and globally appealing. Her breakout track “Simple Love Song” introduced her as a relatable storyteller with a breezy, effortless vocal style. Raised on Maui, Anuhea draws inspiration from her Hawaiian roots while embracing contemporary influences—from acoustic pop to R&B. Her music is personal, empowering, and always infused with aloha, making her a favorite among younger audiences and longtime fans alike.
8. Makana
Makana is a virtuoso of slack-key guitar, channeling centuries of Hawaiian tradition through his fingers while pushing boundaries with bold, modern themes. Often described as a “slack-key rebel,” he infuses his instrumentals and vocals with a fiery passion rarely seen in the genre. Beyond his technical prowess, Makana is known for using his music as a platform for political and social commentary, particularly around Hawaiian sovereignty and environmental issues. His performances are both meditative and electrifying, offering a unique fusion of ancient sounds and contemporary urgency that captivates audiences around the world.
9. Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro has redefined what the ukulele can do. Hailing from Honolulu, he gained international fame with his virtuosic rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” turning the humble uke into a powerhouse of expression. Jake’s genre-defying style blends jazz, blues, classical, and rock, often leaving audiences in awe of his speed, precision, and emotion. He’s collaborated with artists across the musical spectrum and continues to innovate with each release. Shimabukuro’s artistry has elevated the ukulele from a novelty to a serious musical instrument, earning him a place among the world’s elite instrumentalists.
10. Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom is a vocal powerhouse and one of Hawaii’s most respected female artists. Known for her mastery of leo kiʻekiʻe (Hawaiian falsetto), she has earned multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and Grammy nominations. Her music seamlessly blends traditional Hawaiian elements with jazz and classical influences, creating a rich, emotional soundscape that honors her roots while embracing innovation. Amy’s commanding presence and passionate performances have made her a staple in the Hawaiian music scene and a powerful ambassador of island culture on the global stage.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
