[Chill Track] A Classic of Hawaiian Music

Flying With AngelsNa Leo Pilimehana

Flying with Angels

In the 1980s, sophisticated pop styles like synthwave and synth-pop were gaining popularity around the world.

Hawaii had its own version of this movement, and the female trio Nā Leo Pilimehana, who sing “Flying With Angels,” became popular for blending urban pop music with elements of Hawaiian music.

The guitar that evokes slack-key playing and the uniquely ‘80s-tinged bass pair perfectly, making for a chill track.

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Take A Walk InThe CountryMAKAHA SONS

Take A Walk InThe Country ~ MAKAHA SONS

This is a masterpiece that beautifully captures Hawaii’s rich natural scenery and traditional culture.

Featured on the Makaha Sons’ 1991 album “Ho‘oluana,” the song captivates with its soothing blend of gentle vocals, ukulele, and slack-key guitar.

It evokes a calm feeling, as if you were strolling through Hawaii’s rural landscapes, far from the bustle of the city.

As one of Hawaii’s most iconic groups, the Makaha Sons have earned high acclaim, including winning five categories at the 1995 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards.

This piece will gently embrace you in any moment seeking healing—whether during relaxation time, yoga, or hula practice.

Over the RainbowIsrael “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole

OFFICIAL Somewhere over the Rainbow – Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is a singer-songwriter who enjoys great popularity in Hawaii.

He’s an artist known for his sweet vocals—something you wouldn’t expect from his enormous physique—and he has long energized Hawaiian pop music.

Among his works, the one I especially recommend is Over the Rainbow.

It’s a well-known classic arranged with a Hawaiian flavor, and it has a chiller vibe than the original.

How about giving it a listen when you want to relax?

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E Maliu MaiEmma Veary

E Maliu Mai

A song distinguished by a beautiful melody that washes over the heart like gentle waves.

The clear, soaring voice of Hawaiian soprano Emma Veary evokes the islands’ great natural beauty and soft breezes.

Featured on the 1976 album “Emma At The Royal,” this piece was recorded live in the Monarch Room of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a prestigious landmark in Hawaii.

As one of Emma’s signature works—she received the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994—it conveys the full charm of Hawaiian music.

Perfect not only as background music for hula, but also for moments of relaxation or when you want to soothe the soul.

Ku’u Home O Kahalu’uOlomana

Olomana- Ku’u Home O Kahalu’u

This song paints nostalgic Hawaiian landscapes through a gently resonant vocal and the sound of slack-key guitar.

Released by Olomana on the 1976 album “Like a Seabird in the Wind,” it tenderly expresses deep affection for the place called Kahaluʻu and feelings toward a hometown in transition.

The well-balanced harmonies by Santos and Beaumont and the lyrics skillfully interweaving English and Hawaiian leave a strong impression.

Often used in Hawaii’s tourism promotions and cultural events, it is also cherished as an accompaniment for hula.

Like calm waves soothing the heart, this piece is recommended for slow, relaxing moments or when you want to bask in fond memories.

Iāʻoe E Ka LāPalani Vaughan

Palani Vaughan – Iāʻoe E Ka Lā (Official Music Video)

Palani Vaughan, known as an important bearer of Hawaiian music traditions, left behind masterpieces that convey the glory of the Hawaiian Kingdom to the present day.

Among his album series honoring the Kingdom’s seventh monarch, this gem combines a gentle, soothing melody with profound historical depth.

Beginning with the 1973 release of the album “Ia ‘Oe E Ka Lā – Vol.

1,” the series was produced in four volumes through 1980.

This work continues to be cherished by many hula dancers as an embodiment of Hawaiian traditional music and its rich culture.

Its unhurried, graceful melody is ideal for moments of relaxation or as background music for hula practice.

Please enjoy this track, which encapsulates the essence of Vaughan—an inductee of the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame.

Fish and PoiSean Na’auao

Fish and Poi

A song that joyfully celebrates Hawaii’s food culture embodies love for home and a strong sense of identity.

In the voice of Hawaii’s top musician, Sean Naʻauao, traditional elements blend beautifully with a modern approach, creating a rhythm as soothing as ocean waves.

Released in 1998, this work served as the title track of the acclaimed album “Fish & Poi” and received high praise at that year’s Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards.

While honoring Hawaiian traditional music, its sound incorporates light, pop-inflected elements that pair perfectly with the graceful movements of hula.

Its calming, sea-breeze-like melody is ideal for moments when you want to unwind away from everyday bustle or connect with Hawaiian culture.