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?
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Selecting hula dance songs: Classic tracks (1–10) that evoke Hawaii’s healing spirit and culture.
Pua HoneBrothers Cazimero
This timeless song beautifully expresses feelings for a loved one through a gentle, translucent melody and heartwarming lyrics.
Performed by Hawaii’s iconic duo, the Brothers Cazimero, it’s a gem that blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with modern arrangements.
Included on the 1978 album Ho‘āla, the song was written and composed by Dennis Kamakahi.
Its acoustic instrumentation and refined harmonies weave a lovely tune that washes over the heart like calm waves.
The unhurried rhythm and soothing tones are perfect for the graceful movements of hula.
It also makes a wonderful soundtrack for quiet nights—an ideal choice when you want to relax and feel the Hawaiian breeze.
KawaipunaheleKeali’i Reichel
Chant is a form of traditional music that could be called Hawaii’s folk song.
Kealiʻi Reichel, an elite who mastered chant at the young age of 17 and even founded a hula organization at 19, is a standout figure.
His song “Kawaipunahele” is his biggest hit and even took the No.
1 spot, surpassing Madonna, who was at the top of the charts at the time.
Even those not familiar with Hawaiian music will likely find it recognizable.
The melody leans toward pop, and it features phrases reminiscent of Okinawan folk music.
Morning DewDon Ho, Larry Lindsey Kimura
Don Ho is a Hawaiian music singer who represents Hawaii.
Among his songs, Morning Dew is especially famous as a particularly sultry, alluring track.
Its laid-back, quintessentially Hawaiian tempo pairs perfectly with Don Ho’s dapper, suave voice.
Many people associate Hawaiian music with midday or evening.
Morning Dew, however, stands out with a sophisticated, nighttime mood—an adult melody that leaves a strong impression.
Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Classic Tracks (11–20) That Capture Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture
Fish and PoiSean Na’auao
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.
Ke Kali Nei AuCharles E. King
Charles E.
King is considered one of the greatest composers of Hawaiian music.
He left behind an extraordinary number of classic Hawaiian songs—over 400 in total.
Among his many masterpieces, “Ke Kali Nei Au” is especially popular.
In addition to being a staple song for hula, it is also widely recognized in Hawaii as a classic wedding song.
Its catchy melody makes it well worth a listen!
AlekokiDennis Pavao
Dennis Pavao is a Hawaiian musician known for his falsetto.
Active in the 1970s, he is famous for popularizing traditional Hawaiian music called ‘ka leo kiʻekiʻe.’ Although Dennis Pavao left behind many classic songs, this ‘ka leo kiʻekiʻe’ is particularly popular.
The tempo is moderate, and the melody is crafted to be very cheerful.
The vocals, which make extensive use of falsetto, are also a highlight.
Pua AhihiMaddy Lam, Mary Kawena Pukui
Maddy Lam, an artist who left behind many masterpieces and stands alongside Charles E.
King—often called the father of Hawaiian music—was active during what could be called the golden era of Hawaiian music from the 1930s to the 1980s.
“Pua Ahihi” is one of her signature songs, and the composer Mary Kawena Pukui—who was also an educator known for protecting the Hawaiian language when it was on the verge of disappearing due to political reasons—also contributed to its composition.