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[Chill Track] A Classic of Hawaiian Music

Hawaiian music is hugely popular in Japan, too.

Even if you’re familiar with the vibe, many people don’t know specific songs in detail.

So this time, we’re introducing classic tracks of Hawaiian music for just that audience!

From within the broader world of Hawaiian music, we’ve picked selections that are especially perfect for a chill atmosphere.

We’ve chosen songs from every era, so it’s also recommended for anyone who wants to get the full picture of Hawaiian music.

Please sit back, relax, and enjoy.

[Chill Track] Classic Hawaiian Music (1–10)

Let’s Talk StoryHawaiian Style Band

Let’s Talk Story (feat. Israel Kamakawioʻole)
Let's Talk StoryHawaiian Style Band

Many genres go through a boom and then a lull, but Hawaiian music—thanks in part to its originality—has managed to spark recurring waves of popularity over a long period.

The Hawaiian-style band that performs “Let’s Talk Story” is the group that helped ignite the Hawaiian music boom of the 1990s.

Their sound, which blends Hawaiian music into sophisticated urban pop, comes through clearly in this track, so be sure to give it a listen.

SummertimeThe Green

The Green – Summertime (Audio)
SummertimeThe Green

This track by The Green is a reggae song that captures the liberating feeling of summer and special moments with a loved one.

True to the band’s Hawaiian roots, the lyrics are sprinkled with lush natural imagery like beaches, the ocean, and waterfalls.

Stepping away from work to spend luxurious time together with a partner, the song evokes listeners’ own summer memories.

Included on an EP released in September 2023, this piece showcases the band’s versatile musicality.

Their uniqueness shines through a foundation of Hawaiian reggae fused with elements of rock and pop.

It’s perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing, feel-good tune to enjoy in the warmer months.

Hi’ilaweGabby Pahinui

Gabby Pahinui, a Hawaiian artist who was hugely active from the 1940s through the 1960s.

Though known as a Hawaiian music singer, he also excelled as a guitarist and left many great compositions as a songwriter.

Among his works, a particularly chill track I’d like to recommend is Hi’ilawe.

It has a refreshing feel reminiscent of country music, and you can enjoy a laid-back vibe throughout.

[Chill Track] Hawaiian Music Classics (11–20)

Local BoysNa Leo Pilimehana

Na Leo Pilimehana is a female trio from Hawaii.

They’re a group closer to a band, with each member performing on guitar, ukulele, and bass.

Their musical style leans toward orthodox Hawaiian pop, with every song arranged into an accessible, familiar melody.

Among their works, a particularly recommended classic is “Local Boys.” It’s a track with the ambience of 1950s jazz, kept chill throughout.

Love And HonestyHawaiian Style Band

Hawaiian Style Band was a Hawaiian music group that was hugely active in the 1990s.

They boldly blended a variety of genres in ways rarely seen in Hawaiian music up to that point, and they had a major influence on later Hawaiian pop.

Among their works, the one I especially recommend is Love And Honesty.

It has a vibe similar to Cyndi Lauper’s Time After Time, and maintains a chill atmosphere throughout.

LovelyMakua Rothman

A heartwarming love song from Makua Rothman, who is also a Hawaiian big-wave surfer.

Skillfully blending elements of Hawaiian music and reggae, this track is featured on his 2013 album Sound Wave.

Accompanied by sunny guitar tones, it expresses gratitude to a loved one and affection for the islands, putting listeners in a peaceful mood.

Among the songs on Sound Wave—which topped the iTunes World Albums chart—this is an especially captivating track.

Perfect for a weekend drive or whenever you want to relax.

Akaka FallsNathan Aweau

After honing his craft as a band member for the King of Hawaiian Music, Don Ho, Hawaiian musician Nathan Aweau went on to achieve major success as a solo artist.

His greatest appeal is undoubtedly his exceptional vocal ability.

His distinctive falsetto is striking, yet he maintains remarkable fullness and stability—an outstanding vocalist by any measure.

His track Akaka Falls is a chill Hawaiian tune with an R&B flavor that lets you fully savor his vocal prowess.