Hawaii’s rich musical heritage has produced countless talented female vocalists whose soulful voices have engaged audiences worldwide.
This blog post celebrates 35 remarkable female singers from the beautiful Hawaiian islands, highlighting their exceptional talents.
We’ll explore the diverse genres and styles these women have mastered, from traditional Hawaiian music to contemporary pop.
Let’s discover their inspiring stories, signature songs, and the profound impact they’ve had on preserving and evolving Hawaii’s musical identity.
Hawaiin Female Singers Who Rule The Industry
1. Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom
Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom is a celebrated Hawaiian singer known for her powerful voice and soulful renditions of traditional Hawaiian music.
With roots deeply embedded in Hawaiian culture, Amy has brought traditional songs to the forefront of contemporary music.
Her ability to blend traditional and modern styles has made her one of Hawaii’s most beloved performers.
- Famous songs: “Palehua,” “Ka‘ena,” “Aloha No Kalākaua”
- Awards: 5 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1995–present
2. Raiatea Helm
Raiatea Helm is a Hawaiian singer and musician recognized for her angelic voice and mastery of the ukulele.
She has been a prominent figure in preserving and promoting traditional Hawaiian music, often singing in the Hawaiian language.
Helm’s albums have garnered critical acclaim and have helped introduce Hawaiian music to a global audience.
- Famous songs: “Ka Loke,” “He Aloha Mele,” “Ka Beauty A’o Manoa”
- Awards: 2 Grammy nominations, 8 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2002–present
3. Taimane Gardner
Taimane Gardner is a dynamic ukulele virtuoso known for her energetic performances and unique style.
Blending elements of rock, classical, and traditional Hawaiian music, Taimane has captivated audiences worldwide.
Her innovative approach to the ukulele has redefined the instrument’s role in contemporary music.
- Famous songs: “Waterfall,” “Fire,” “Earth”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Favorite Entertainer of the Year
- Years Active: 2005–present
4. Anuhea Jenkins
Anuhea Jenkins, commonly known as Anuhea, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter whose music blends reggae, pop, and R&B.
Known for her heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies, Anuhea has become a favorite among fans in Hawaii and beyond.
Her relatable songs and authentic style have earned her a loyal following.
- Famous songs: “Higher than the Clouds,” “Simple Love Song,” “Come Over Love”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Contemporary Album of the Year
- Years Active: 2009–present
5. Na Leo Pilimehana
Na Leo Pilimehana, often called Na Leo, is an all-female Hawaiian music group known for their harmonious vocals and blend of contemporary and traditional sounds.
The trio has been a significant force in Hawaiian music, producing numerous hit songs and beloved albums.
- Famous songs: “Flying with Angels,” “Rest of Your Life,” “Local Boys”
- Awards: 23 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1984–present
6. Natalie Ai Kamauu
Natalie Ai Kamauu is a Hawaiian singer renowned for her powerful vocals and deep connection to Hawaiian culture.
Her music often features traditional Hawaiian lyrics and melodies, bringing a modern sensibility to ancient songs.
Natalie’s work has earned her a revered place in the hearts of Hawaiian music fans.
- Famous songs: “Pili Me ‘Oe,” “‘E Ku‘u Lei,” “Uluwehi Kealohilani”
- Awards: 4 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2005–present
7. The Hula Honeys
The Hula Honeys are a beloved female duo known for their harmonious vocals and vintage Hawaiian swing music.
The Hula Honeys, composed of Ginger Johnson and Robyn Kneubuhl, are a unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music and 1930s-style swing.
Their music often features ukulele and steel guitar, creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound that has captivated audiences.
The Hula Honeys are celebrated for their smooth harmonies and charming performances, making them a standout group in the Hawaiian music scene.
- Famous songs: “Maile Swing,” “Pua Lilia,” “Moonlight and Shadows”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Best Jazz Album
- Years Active: 2001–present
8. Napua Greig
Napua Greig is a Hawaiian singer and hula dancer known for her beautiful voice and commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture.
Her music often reflects traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Napua’s performances are celebrated for their authenticity and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Ke ‘Ala Beauty,” “Pō La‘ila‘i,” “He Mele No Kaho‘olawe”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2007–present
9. Hoku Ho
Hoku Ho is a Hawaiian pop singer who gained fame with her debut album in the early 2000s.
Known for her sweet voice and pop sensibilities, Hoku has significantly impacted the music scene with her catchy and relatable songs.
She continues to be a beloved figure among fans of Hawaiian pop music.
- Famous songs: “Another Dumb Blonde,” “Perfect Day,” “How Do I Feel (The Burrito Song)”
- Awards: Radio Disney Music Award
- Years Active: 1999–present
10. Malia Ka‘aihue
Malia Ka‘aihue is a Hawaiian singer and musician known for her soulful voice and deep connection to Hawaiian traditions.
Her music often blends contemporary and traditional elements, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Malia’s contributions to Hawaiian music have earned her a respected place in the industry.
- Famous songs: “Ku‘u Pua Mae‘ole,” “Keawaiki,” “Ka‘u Ku Makou”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award
- Years Active: 2010–present
11. Paula Fuga
Paula Fuga is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics.
Her music blends elements of folk, reggae, and Hawaiian traditions, creating a powerful and dynamic sound.
Paula is also recognized for her advocacy work and contributions to the Hawaiian community.
- Famous songs: “Misery’s End,” “If Ever,” “Lilikoi”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2006–present
12. Kaumakaiwa Kanaka‘ole
Kaumakaiwa Kanaka‘ole is a Hawaiian singer and cultural practitioner known for her powerful voice and deep understanding of Hawaiian traditions.
Her music often incorporates traditional chants and contemporary melodies, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Kaumakaiwa is also a respected kumu hula (hula teacher).
- Famous songs: “Meleana E,” “He Lei Hiwa No ‘Iolani,” “Kawelu”
- Awards: 5 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2004–present
13. Makana
Makana is a Hawaiian slack-key guitar player, singer, and composer known for his virtuosic playing and soulful voice.
He has brought Hawaiian slack-key guitar to a global audience, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles.
Makana’s music is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and traditions.
- Famous songs: “Deep in an Ancient Hawaiian Forest,” “Will I Ever See You Again,” “Hawaiian Cowboy”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award
- Years Active: 1998–present
14. Emma Veary
Emma Veary is a legendary Hawaiian singer known for her beautiful voice and contributions to Hawaiian music.
Often referred to as Hawaii’s “Golden Voice,” Emma has captivated audiences with her renditions of traditional Hawaiian songs and operatic performances.
Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian musicians.
- Famous songs: “E Maliu Mai,” “Aloha Oe,” “Hawaiian Wedding Song”
- Awards: Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- Years Active: 1950s–present
15. Nani Lim Yap
Nani Lim Yap is a Hawaiian singer and kumu hula known for her powerful voice and dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture.
Her music often features traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Nani’s performances are celebrated for their authenticity and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Pua Tubarose,” “Ka Makani Ka‘ili Aloha,” “Lei Ana O Manoa.”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1995–present
16. Kekuhi Kealiikanakaole
Kekuhi Kealiikanakaole is a Hawaiian singer and cultural practitioner known for her deep connection to Hawaiian traditions and powerful vocal performances.
She is also a respected kumu hula and has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture through her music and teachings.
- Famous songs: “E Ho Mai,” “Ho‘onanea,” “Ka‘Uluwehi O Ke Kai”
- Awards: 3 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1992–present
17. Weldon Kekauoha
Weldon Kekauoha is a Hawaiian singer and musician known for his smooth voice and mastery of the slack-key guitar.
His music blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary influences, creating a unique and captivating style.
Weldon’s contributions to Hawaiian music have earned him a respected place in the industry.
- Famous songs: “Lei Ho‘oheno,” “Ka‘a Ahi Kahului,” and “Pua ‘Olena.”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2000–present
18. Lehua Kalima
Lehua Kalima is a Hawaiian singer and member of the popular group Na Leo Pilimehana.
Known for her harmonious vocals and soulful performances, Lehua has been a significant force in the Hawaiian music scene—her work with Na Leo and as a solo artist has earned her widespread acclaim.
- Famous songs: “Flying with Angels,” “Local Boys,” “Rest of Your Life”
- Awards: 23 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards (with Na Leo Pilimehana)
- Years Active: 1984–present
19. Teresa Bright
Teresa Bright is a Hawaiian singer known for her beautiful voice and diverse musical styles.
She has released numerous albums that feature a blend of traditional Hawaiian, jazz, and pop influences.
Teresa’s music is celebrated for its versatility and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Polynesian Girl,” “Hale‘iwa Hula,” “Blue Skies”
- Awards: 5 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1985–present
20. Uluwehi Guerrero
Uluwehi Guerrero is a Hawaiian singer and kumu hula known for his deep connection to Hawaiian culture and powerful vocal performances.
His music often features traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Uluwehi’s contributions to Hawaiian music have earned him a respected place in the industry.
- Famous songs: “Ka Nani A‘o Ka‘u,” “Hilo Hula,” “Lei Ho‘oheno”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1996–present
21. Pomaika‘i Lyman
Pomaika‘i Lyman is a Hawaiian singer and musician known for her beautiful voice and deep connection to Hawaiian traditions.
Her music often blends contemporary and traditional elements, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Pomaika‘i’s contributions to Hawaiian music have earned her a respected place in the industry.
- Famous songs: “He‘eia,” “Ku‘u Pua Lei Aloha,” “Ka‘a Ahi Kahului.”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award
- Years Active: 2010–present
22. Nāpua Stevens-Poirier
Nāpua Stevens-Poirier was a legendary Hawaiian singer and hula dancer known for her beautiful voice and contributions to Hawaiian music.
Often referred to as “The Hawaiian Songbird,” Nāpua captivated audiences with her renditions of traditional Hawaiian songs and operatic performances.
Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian musicians.
- Famous songs: “E Maliu Mai,” “Aloha Oe,” “Hawaiian Wedding Song”
- Awards: Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- Years Active: 1940s–1987
23. Diana Aki
Diana Aki is a Hawaiian singer known for her powerful voice and passionate performances.
She gained fame in the 1970s and has since released several successful albums.
Diana’s music often features traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
- Famous songs: “Lili‘u E,” “Pua Hone,” “Ka‘a Ahi Kahului”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award
- Years Active: 1970s–present
24. Nohelani Cypriano
Nohelani Cypriano is a Hawaiian singer known for her smooth voice and diverse musical styles.
She has released numerous albums that feature a blend of traditional Hawaiian, jazz, and pop influences.
Nohelani’s music is celebrated for its versatility and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Lihue,” “Play With Me,” “Pua Lilia.”
- Awards: 5 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1979–present
25. Melveen Leed
Melveen Leed is a Hawaiian singer known for her beautiful voice and diverse musical styles.
She has released numerous albums that feature a blend of traditional Hawaiian, country, and pop influences.
Melveen’s music is celebrated for its versatility and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Pua Lilia,” “Hawaiian Country,” “Kainoa”
- Awards: 4 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1968–present
26. Genoa Keawe
Genoa Keawe was a legendary Hawaiian singer known for her powerful voice and contributions to Hawaiian music.
Often referred to as “Aunty Genoa,” she captivated audiences with her renditions of traditional Hawaiian songs and operatic performances.
Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian musicians.
- Famous songs: “Alika,” “For You a Lei,” “Ka Makani Ka‘ili Aloha”
- Awards: Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- Years Active: 1930s–2008
27. Brittni Paiva
Brittni Paiva is a Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso and singer known for her energetic performances and unique style.
Brittni has captivated audiences worldwide by blending jazz, pop, and traditional Hawaiian music elements.
Her innovative approach to the ukulele has redefined the instrument’s role in contemporary music.
- Famous songs: “E Ku‘u Morning Dew,” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Take Five”
- Awards: 3 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 2004–present
28. Ku‘uipo Kumukahi
Ku‘uipo Kumukahi is a Hawaiian singer and cultural practitioner known for her deep connection to Hawaiian traditions and powerful vocal performances.
Her music often features traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Ku‘uipo’s contributions to Hawaiian music have earned her a respected place in the industry.
- Famous songs: “Ka Makani Ka‘ili Aloha,” “Lei Nani,” “Pua Tuberose”
- Awards: 4 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1988–present
29. Sistah Robi Kahakalau
Sistah Robi Kahakalau is a versatile Hawaiian singer whose music spans multiple genres, including reggae, pop, and traditional Hawaiian.
Known for her soothing voice and charismatic performances, Robi has become a beloved figure in Hawaiian music, appealing to diverse audiences.
- Famous songs: “Pi‘i Mai Ka Nalu,” “Keiki O Ka ‘Aina,” “All I Want”
- Awards: 3 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1990–present
30. Lena Machado
Lena Machado was a legendary Hawaiian singer known for her beautiful voice and contributions to Hawaiian music.
Often referred to as “Hawaii’s Songbird,” Lena captivated audiences with her renditions of traditional Hawaiian songs and operatic performances.
Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian musicians.
- Famous songs: “Hawaiian Hospitality,” “Lei Aloha, Lei Makamae,” “Aloha No”
- Awards: Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- Years Active: 1930s–1974
31. Lorna Lim
Lorna Lim is a Hawaiian singer known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Hawaiian traditions.
Her music often features traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Lorna’s performances are celebrated for their authenticity and emotional depth.
- Famous songs: “Pua ‘Olena,” “Kaulana Na Pua,” “Hi‘ilawe”
- Awards: 2 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
- Years Active: 1990s–present
32. Awa
Awa, born Awa Ly, is a Hawaiian singer-songwriter known for her smooth, soulful voice and ability to blend contemporary and traditional Hawaiian music styles.
With roots in Hawaiian culture and influences from jazz, R&B, and pop, Awa has carved out a unique niche in the Hawaiian music scene.
Her passionate performances and heartfelt lyrics have endeared her to local and international audiences.
- Famous songs: “I Miss You,” “Ina,” “Shine”
- Awards: Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award nominee
- Years Active: 2000–present
33. Puanani Alama
Puanani Alama is a legendary Hawaiian singer and kumu hula known for her contributions to Hawaiian music and hula.
Her music often reflects traditional Hawaiian themes and stories, resonating with audiences who cherish their cultural heritage.
Puanani’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian musicians.
- Famous songs: “Pua Tuberose,” “Ke Kali Nei Au,” “Aloha ‘Oe”
- Awards: Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- Years Active: 1940s–1980s
34. Olivia Foa‘i
Olivia Foa‘i is a contemporary Hawaiian and Polynesian singer known for her powerful voice and dynamic performances.
Her music blends traditional Polynesian influences with modern styles, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Olivia’s contributions to Hawaiian and Polynesian music have earned her a growing fan base.
- Famous songs: “Lelei,” “Tamatoa,” “Loimata o le Fiafia”
- Awards: Pacific Music Award
- Years Active: 2014–present
Final Thoughts
The talented voices highlighted in this blog post represent just a fraction of the incredible female singers who have emerged from the islands of Hawaii.
Their music is a vibrant tapestry, weaving traditional Hawaiian roots with modern influences to create something unique and captivating.
Whether performing ancient chants passed down through generations or penning powerful original works, these women have kept Hawaii’s rich musical heritage alive.
As you revisit the iconic hits and explore the stories behind these 35 influential Hawaiian vocalists, let their songs transport you to the breathtaking shores of the islands.
More importantly, let their passion for their craft inspire you to seek out and support the next generation of female Hawaiian musicians carrying the torch.
