Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Timeless Classics that Evoke Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture

Hula O MakeeDanny Carvalho

Danny Carvalho – Hula O Makee (HiSessions.com Acoustic Live!)

This song is based on a true story: the ship Makee, which wrecked off Kapa‘a on the island of Kaua‘i in 1897, and the vessel Hall that came to its rescue.

It features a gentle melody and a tender singing voice.

His guitar tone and vocals feel cleansing to the soul.

The guitar solo is breathtaking.

I’ll Remember YouKui Lee

I’ll Remember You

Cui Lei is an artist from Shanghai, China.

Although he was not very well known at first, he rose to prominence after his song “I’ll Remember You” was covered by Don Ho, a legendary Hawaiian artist, and by Elvis Presley, the world-famous rock musician.

Sadly, his time in the spotlight was brief, as he passed away from cancer in 1966.

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Hawaiian Wedding SongAndy Williams

Andy Williams – The Hawaiian Wedding Song

The Hawaiian Wedding Song is famous as a Hawaiian music wedding song.

While it doesn’t feature many melodies typically associated with Hawaiian music, it’s extremely well known in Hawaii.

As the title suggests, the song is sung in English, so it’s also familiar in English-speaking countries.

It even won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, so I think quite a few people in Japan know it as well.

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Roselani BlossomsHo’okena

Roselani Blossoms

John Kameaaloha Almeida, the creator of Roselani Blossoms, was a mandolin player who made his name in Hawaii’s music scene.

This song is said to be a love song to his beloved wife.

The title translates to “rose blossoms,” a metaphorical expression referring to his beloved wife.

Ali’ipoeWaipuna

Waipuna – Ali’ipoe

Alii Poʻe is a flower you often see along the roadsides in Hawaii.

It’s famous for being used as a material for the ʻuliʻuli, a traditional Hawaiian percussion instrument.

The song “Aliʻipoe,” themed around this flower, is well-known as a love song in Hawaiian music.

It makes extensive use of the distinctive falsetto often heard in Hawaiian music, giving it a strong impact.

It’s a classic that blends elements of both Hawaiian style and standard jazz.

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O Rapa NuiFenua

O Rapa Nui E

If you’re looking for upbeat hula, I recommend “O Rapa Nui.” Created by the Hawaiian music group Fenua, this track features a lively melody that evokes the island of Tahiti.

While it’s sung by a mixed chorus, the higher proportion of female vocals makes it easy to enjoy even if you prefer more traditional hula.

Unfortunately, Fenua has already disbanded, but several of their albums are still in circulation, so check them out if you’re interested.

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The Hukilau SongJack Owens

The Hukilau Song

This song was written by Jack Owens, who was born in Oklahoma, based on his experiences in Hawaii.

In hukilau, huki means “to pull,” and lau means “leaf.” The song is also considered a children’s song and is loved by people of all ages.