Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Timeless Classics that Evoke Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture
Hula, the traditional Hawaiian performing art that heals the mind and body.
What’s essential to its gentle movements and beautiful expression is Hawaiian music.
From timeless classics sung by iconic Hawaiian artists like Don Ho and Teresa Bright to contemporary sounds like Te Vaka, the world of hula is truly profound.
Let yourself drift on soothing, relaxing melodies or let your heart dance to bright, cheerful rhythms.
Why not explore Hawaii’s culture and history through its music?
Selecting hula dance songs: Classic tracks (1–10) that evoke Hawaii’s healing spirit and culture.
Lei Ho’ohenoWeldon Kekauoha
A classic of Hawaiian music, “Lei Ho’oheno” is a masterpiece frequently used in hula dancing.
The title translates to “Beloved Person” in Japanese, and the lyrics liken a loved one to a lei—the garland of flowers worn around the neck.
Although the song is sung in Hawaiian, it’s known for having especially easy-to-understand lyrics among Hawaiian songs.
As a result, many people learn Hawaiian through this piece.
If you enjoy orthodox Hawaiian music, be sure to check it out!
He Aloha No O HonoluluTeresa Bright
If you’re in the mood for something a little wistful, I recommend “He Aloha No O Honolulu.” It was released in 1999 by Teresa Bright, a leading artist in Hawaiian music.
While the tempo is as relaxed as other Hawaiian songs, this track features a slightly melancholic melody.
Teresa Bright’s voice is pretty cool, so be sure to give it a listen!
Kaulana Na PuaProject KULEANA
Kaulana Na Pua was written right after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
It may be hard to imagine from today’s Hawaii, but at the time the islands were in a state of war, and people’s spirits were exhausted.
Kaulana Na Pua was composed to encourage the people of Hawaii—a kind of fight song to lift them up.
Both its melody and its lyrics share elements in common with Okinawa.
The melody itself is crafted to be soothing and bright, but once you understand the meaning embedded in the song, it sounds quite different.
Lei PakalanaNā Wai ʻ Ehā
A harmony group formed by two sets of brothers from Maui, Nā Wai ʻEhā delivers a beautiful piece wrapped in gentle warmth.
Centered on the theme of the pakalana lei, a traditional Hawaiian flower, its graceful melody resonates deeply.
Featured on their November 2018 album “Nā Wai ʻEhā,” this track showcases the members’ clear, pristine vocals carried by the soft tones of ukulele and slack-key guitar.
While cherishing elements of traditional Hawaiian music, the captivating, modern-tinged sound design has won the hearts of many listeners.
Perfect for peaceful moments or as background music for hula practice, it creates a truly blissful atmosphere.
Kaimana HilaAuntie Geri
Kaimana Hila,” with its cheerful melody, leaves a lasting impression.
It’s a very famous song and is frequently used in hula.
Hawaiian music often compares feelings and people to elements of nature like plants and mountains, and this song is no exception—it takes Diamond Head, a well-known tourist spot in Hawaii, as its theme.
Incidentally, the title “Kaimana Hila” means “Diamond Hill,” referring to Diamond Head.
If you like fast-tempo Hawaiian music, be sure to check it out!