Of all of the reasons to be excited for your long awaited trip to Hawaii, the music of the islands may not be near the top of your list. It is easy to overlook or just not think about music when there is so much to do and think about before you come, and the sites and activities of Hawaii are what immediately draw your attention.
However, once you arrive in Hawaii, the easy sounds of Hawaiian music tend to take over. No matter where you go, you’ll here the sounds that Hawaii has become known for, and the gentle and soothing songs will give you another connection to the islands. Familiar instruments to Hawaiian music are the acoustic guitar, slack key guitar, and of course the ukulele. Many of the most well known songs that have been written by artists that are from one of the Hawaiian Islands feature only these instruments, creating that beautiful sound that will soon remind you of warm days, white sands, and a colorful sunset that quietly drops below the horizon.
Music has been played in Hawaii for thousands of years, and many songs have come from island artists. How many of our favorite songs do you know?
- Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
- I Got You – Jack Johnson
- Tiny Bubbes – Don Ho
- Aloha ‘Oe – Queen Liliuokalani
- Sweet Leilani – Harry Owens/Bing Crosby
- Mele Kalikimaka – Various Artists
- My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekya – Bill Cogswell, Tommy Harrison, Johnny Noble
- Sitting, Waiting, Wishing – Jack Johnson
- White Sandy Beach - Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Of course, there are hundreds and thousands of songs about Hawaii, that have come from Hawaii, and are commonly heard in Hawaii. These songs create a link to the islands and keep memories fresh in your mind, long after your trip has ended. While you’re visiting, be sure to keep your ears open and listen for catchy tunes and popular hits that help to create the image of Hawaii.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance, especially our top seller Sea Life Park Luau. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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